Dolly Parton supported LGBTQ rights as early as the 1980s and never backed down, saying in many interviews, “I do not judge.”"Saint Dolly," as she's known to many, has long defended queer and transgender people. Justine Goode / NBC News; Getty ImagesAug. 26, 2026, 8:41 PM EDTBy Jo YurcabaWhen Jason Larimore came out as gay in 1994 in small-town Kentucky, almost everyone in his life turned their backs on him except his mom — and Dolly Parton. Just a moment.We are getting your experience ready.