Dolly Parton Once Had Her Husband Arrested For A Prank

Dolly Parton has been a star for over five decades, while her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, stays far from the public eye. Their contrasting lifestyles have sparked curiosity, with some even questioning Dean’s existence. Despite the rumors, their relationship has stood the test of time, showing that their dynamic works. Known for their sense of humor, Parton once pulled a prank that almost landed Dean in trouble.

In Stephen Miller’s book Smart Blonde: Dolly Parton, it was revealed that while Dean rarely joined Dolly on tour, he would drive to her shows. At the 1977 Kentucky State Fair, Dolly pulled a memorable prank by bringing Dean on stage—one of the rare times he stepped into the spotlight.

Strong but Private Bond

Married since 1966, Parton and Dean have a relationship built on love, freedom, and trust. In an interview with Family Circle, Parton addressed the rumors about their unconventional relationship: “People are always gossipin’ about what a weird arrangement it must be, but they don’t know me like he does. The man gives me what I need, which is freedom. And love. And security. He and my family are the center of my life.”

Carl Dean has always shied away from public attention, a fact Parton openly discusses. “My husband is a loner,” she told People. “He doesn’t particularly care about being around anybody but me. He’s just always asked me to leave him out of all this. He does not like all the hullabaloo.”

Support Minus the Spotlight

Despite his privacy preference, Dean has been a constant source of support for Dolly. “He’s always been supportive,” Parton said. “He’s like a brother and a father and a friend and a husband and a lover – all of those things to me. I think he’s kind of proud that we’ve been in it this long!”

Their enduring relationship proves that sometimes, the best love stories do happen away from the spotlight.