In a statement that underscores the importance of family unity, Dolly Parton’s sisters have pushed back against media reports suggesting a dispute over the late country legend’s estate. The comments come as a Tennessee court granted a temporary restraining order against the singer’s nephew, Bryan Seaver, after the family’s longtime manager alleged threatening communications.
Family members speak out
Freida Parton took to Instagram on Wednesday to assure fans and the public that “there is no feud within our family.” She added, “No one among the Parton/Owens family is fighting over Dolly’s estate. We all love Bryan, just as we all love each other. I love you all!!”
Stella Parton echoed the sentiment on Thursday, noting that the family is grieving not only Dolly’s recent passing but also the loss of their brother Denver, who died less than a month earlier. “We are still intact and moving forward because our children and grandchildren look to us for strength and guidance during this difficult time of loss and confusion,” Stella wrote.
Legal dispute escalated
The legal battle centers on a restraining order filed by Danny Nozell, who runs She’s Alive, LLC—an entity Dolly created to manage her business interests. Nozell sought the order on behalf of She’s Alive against Bryan Seaver and his private security firm, Squadron Augmented Protection Services, in Nashville. A judge granted the temporary order, citing a pattern of alleged threats, claims of Seaver’s access to weapons, and an expressed intention to retaliate.
According to court documents obtained by the Associated Press, Seaver sent a text on September 1 stating, “I’m going to set up a podcast dedicated to ruining Dolly’s brand partnerships and telling the violations these people have done on us. It’s going to be great. Or f—ing pay me.” The filing alleges that Seaver’s messages grew increasingly threatening in the weeks leading up to the restraining order request.
Seaver’s response
Seaver, through a statement shared with TMZ, contended that the messages were taken out of context and were not intended to threaten. He maintains that his security company, Squadron Augmented Protection Services, has provided protection for Dolly throughout her career and that he was chosen to publicly announce her death.
Impact on Dolly’s legacy
While the legal dispute unfolds, the Parton family emphasizes that the focus remains on honoring Dolly’s legacy and supporting one another during a period of profound grief. The sisters’ public statements aim to quell speculation and reassure fans that the family remains united despite the ongoing courtroom drama.
As the case proceeds, observers will watch for any further developments that could affect the management of Dolly Parton’s estate and the future of She’s Alive, LLC.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.