Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton are apparently distant relatives

Dolly Parton recently discovered a surprising twist in her relationship with goddaughter Miley Cyrus: the two music icons are actually seventh cousins, once removed. This revelation was made public by genealogy and family tree tracking site Ancestry, which used its extensive database of historical records and public family trees to uncover the connection.

According to Ancestry, the common ancestor linking Parton and Cyrus is John Brickey, a man born in Virginia in 1740. Brickey is Parton’s sixth great-grandfather and Cyrus’ seventh great-grandfather, establishing a familial bond that runs deeper than anyone anticipated.

Reacting to the news on a recent episode of Access Hollywood, Parton expressed her surprise, stating, “We’re so close, Miley and I. I’d have thought we’d have been at least third cousins. It doesn’t surprise me because she does feel like family.” This sentiment speaks to the long-standing relationship between the two, characterized by mutual admiration and affection.

Dolly Parton has served as Cyrus’ godmother and has made memorable guest appearances on the Disney Channel series “Hannah Montana,” where she portrayed Cyrus’ aunt. Their close-knit relationship has always been apparent, and Cyrus has been vocal about the influence Parton has had on her life and career.

In a heartfelt tribute for Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2021, Cyrus praised Parton, writing, “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.” This tribute highlights the deep respect Cyrus holds for Parton, both personally and professionally.

The timing of this revelation comes as Parton prepares for the release of her new album, “Dolly Parton & Family: Smoky Mountain DNA – Family, Faith & Fables,” scheduled for November. This upcoming album is expected to explore themes of family and heritage, further emphasizing the importance of familial connections in Parton’s life.

Accompanying the album will be a four-part docuseries that delves into Parton’s ancestry. The series promises to provide an intimate look at her family’s historical journey, tracing roots from the UK to present-day East Tennessee. The docuseries will feature interviews with various family members, adding a personal touch to the narrative of Parton’s lineage.

Parton has always celebrated her family and heritage, often incorporating these themes into her music and public persona. The connection with Cyrus adds another layer to this narrative, reinforcing the idea that family bonds can transcend time and distance. This revelation not only strengthens their personal relationship but also enriches the legacy they are both building in the music industry.

As fans eagerly await the album and docuseries, the newfound family connection between Parton and Cyrus is bound to spark more interest in their individual stories and collective journey. It serves as a reminder of the importance of family in shaping our identities and the bonds that can be found in unexpected places.

Parton and Cyrus have long been admired for their contributions to music and their philanthropic efforts, making them role models for many. Their relationship exemplifies the notion that family isn’t always defined by blood alone; it can also encompass deep connections formed through love and mutual respect.

In a world where celebrity relationships often seem fleeting, the enduring bond between Parton and Cyrus stands out as a testament to genuine connection. Whether they are collaborating on projects or simply supporting each other through life’s ups and downs, their relationship continues to inspire fans around the globe.

As Dolly Parton prepares to celebrate her own heritage in her upcoming album, the world will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how her family ties with Miley Cyrus unfold in the coming months. Their shared legacy, rooted in music and family, is a beautiful narrative that will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.