The iconic American country singer and songwriter Dolly Parton and singer Miley Cyrus are distant relatives.
It explains the special connection they have, according to CNN, who report that the pair have always been vocal about their closeness, something Cyrus touched on in a tribute to Parton that she penned for Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2021.
“Genealogy and family tree tracking site Ancestry announced on Monday that by using “billions of historical records and public family trees,” they’ve discovered that the two music powerhouses are actually seventh cousins, once removed.”
Their common ancestor is a man named John Brickey, who was born in Virginia in 1740, per the family tree tracking site.
Dolly Parton and her younger sister Rachel Parton George had an interview with Access Hollywood to speak about their new cookbook, and on the show, she was informed about her distant relation to Miley.
“We’re so close, Miley and I. I would have thought we would be at least 3rd cousins ten times removed. And I’m sure she’ll get a kick out of that!” Dolly said.
The iconic singer added: “It doesn’t surprise me because she does feel like family.”
CNN reports on their already close association, from Dolly being Miley’s Godmother, to the two working together multiple times over the years.
“ [Dolly] previously appeared on several episodes of the Disney Channel show “Hannah Montana” playing Cyrus’ aunt.”
Miley wrote in a tribute to Parton: “Dolly is not only my idol because of her incomparable career—she’s also my role model because of her steadfast morals and values. She recognizes how impactful her choices will be as one of the most iconic and powerful voices in country music, and she leaves no one behind.”
