Carrie Underwood left viewers emotional after struggling to hold back tears while singing Dolly Parton’s iconic song I Will Always Love You during the closing moments of a special tribute to the late country music legend. Her performance quickly became a talking point, with fans praising her powerful vocals and heartfelt tribute while others shared their thoughts on the emotional finale.
The special, CMA Presents: I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton, aired on ABC and Disney+ on October 21. Organized after Parton’s death on August 25, the show brought together country stars including Reba McEntire, Vince Gill, Ella Langley, Lainey Wilson, Darius Rucker, Zac Brown and Carly Pearce to celebrate her life and musical legacy.
Underwood took the stage to close the night in a glittering gown, standing before a screen displaying pink butterfly wings. Her voice soared as she delivered I Will Always Love You, one of Parton’s most beloved songs. However, the performance became especially moving near the end when Underwood grew visibly emotional and struggled to get through some of the lyrics.
The moment became even more touching as the other performers and special guests joined Underwood onstage for the final notes, singing together in honor of Parton. Given Underwood’s history with the country icon, the tribute carried a personal meaning. The two previously performed the song together in 2009, and Underwood has spoken openly about the admiration and respect she has always had for Parton.
Viewers shared their reactions online, with many praising Underwood for putting so much emotion into the performance. “I think she sang that song with so much passion and emotion! I cried too!!! It was beautiful!!!” one viewer wrote. Another praised the arrangement, saying, “Carrie’s voice soared all the way to Heaven. Her performance was angelic.”
Others called the performance a fitting tribute to the late singer. “She made Dolly proud,” one fan commented, while another said, “Carrie is the perfect ending to a wonderful tribute.” Several viewers also praised Underwood’s appearance, particularly her pink gown and butterfly details.
Not everyone agreed that Underwood had broken down, however. One viewer wrote, “I didn’t see Carrie break down. I saw her singing a beautiful song in tribute to Dolly.” Another defended her delivery, commenting, “She didn’t choke up, she did a great job.”
Underwood and Parton shared several memorable musical moments over the years, including their performance of I Will Always Love You and their participation in the 2016 Forever Country mashup. After Parton’s death, Underwood also paid tribute to her with a heartfelt message, describing her as an example of faith, grace, talent, beauty and humor.
For many viewers, Underwood’s emotional performance was a fitting way to close a night dedicated to celebrating Parton’s extraordinary legacy. And with the other artists joining her onstage, the finale offered a moving reminder of how deeply the country music icon’s songs continue to connect with audiences.
