Dolly Parton Fired Back at Director Who Demanded Acting Lessons
When a Hollywood filmmaker criticized the country music legend's performance and suggested she get professional training, Parton delivered a memorable response that put him in his place.
Working relationships in Hollywood can be complicated, and sometimes directors and actors clash despite being on the same project. Country music superstar Dolly Parton discovered this firsthand when she encountered a filmmaker who questioned her abilities on set.
From Music to Movies
Parton built her reputation as a legendary country artist with hits like 'Jolene' and 'I Will Always Love You' before transitioning into film. Her movie debut in 9 to 5 proved successful, earning critical praise and even an Oscar nomination for the theme song. She followed up with roles in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and Rhinestone, establishing herself as a capable performer on screen.
Trouble on the Steel Magnolias Set
Everything changed during the production of Steel Magnolias, where Parton worked alongside established stars Sally Field and Shirley MacLaine, plus rising talent Julia Roberts. Director Herbert Ross, who had previously helmed Footloose, created tension with his harsh treatment of the cast members.
Field later recalled how the experience brought the actors together: 'My deepest memories of the film were how we bonded together after he told one of us or all of us we couldn't act. He went after Julia with a vengeance. This was pretty much her first big film.'
Parton's Powerful Response
Ross specifically targeted Parton, telling the music icon she needed professional training to improve her performance. Rather than backing down, Parton delivered a sharp comeback that highlighted the director's responsibilities.
'I'm not an actress, I'm Dolly Parton. I'm a personality who has been hired to do this movie. You're the director. It's your job to make me look like I'm acting,' she reportedly told him.
Her response effectively shifted the blame back to Ross while asserting her own value as a performer. The cast continued to support each other through the difficult production, and Roberts ultimately received an Oscar nomination despite the director's criticism. Parton also earned positive reviews, proving Ross wrong about her capabilities. However, the experience may have influenced her decision to limit her film appearances in subsequent years, focusing primarily on her music career.