Why Kenny Rogers And Dolly Parton Never Dated

It was a match made in country music heaven, but duet partners Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers somehow never became a couple in real life. Their lifelong friendship contributed massively to the chart success of many classic hits, but their indelible chemistry both on record and when sharing the stage together never managed to spill over. And a 2017 interview with the duo, widely circulating once again in the wake of Rogers' death, has the answer why. The country music titans were about to take the stage together for the final time when Today cornered them for a chat about what went wrong romantically for them. Ever since 1983's massive "Islands in the Stream," fans were rooting for the two to make it official, but Rogers explained they made better music by keeping things friendly. Rogers also joked that Parton had turned down an offer of romance, but Dolly quickly shut that down, saying, The "Jolene" hit-maker confirmed the two are very good friends and super similar, maybe even a bit too similar at times, which is why they never crossed that line. Both Parton and Rogers will be celebrated in upcoming TV specials, due for release on A&E this spring. First up, on April 12th, Biography: Dolly looks to tell the singer's life story from growing up in poverty in Tennessee to her 50th-anniversary celebration at the legendary Grand Ole Opry. Parton herself will be interviewed for the special. Rogers will get similar treatment when Biography: Kenny Rogers airs the following night. The doc will tell his similarly fascinating life story, also integrating footage from the singer's 2017 farewell concert, All In For The Gambler. Naturally, his lifelong friend Parton will feature as one of the interviewees discussing the musician's undeniable impact on country music. Rogers passed away at the age of 81 from natural causes on Friday, March 20th, 2020. Fellow performers immediately rallied around to say their goodbyes to the musician. Lionel Richie wrote on Twitter, "Today I lost one of my closest friends. So much laughter so many adventures to remember, my heart is broken... My prayers go out to Kenny's Family." Country music superstar Reba McEntire wrote, in part, "Thank you for your friendship and your love. We are going to miss you but we are so happy you're singing with the Angels in heaven. Can't wait to see you again one of these days. Rest in peace my friend." Meanwhile, the Country Music Association said in a statement, "Country Music has lost the great Kenny Rogers, who has forever left a mark on Country Music's history. His family and friends are in our thoughts during this difficult time." The biggest tribute, of course, came from Parton, who posted a video of herself sitting at the piano. Rogers' longtime friend also acknowledged in a tweet, "I've had so many wonderful years and wonderful times with my friend Kenny, but above all the music and the success I loved him as a wonderful man and a true friend." Rogers retired back in 2015, and said at the time, "I've been so lucky to have enjoyed such a long career and to have such amazing support from my fans and all who have helped me along the way, but there comes a time when I need to focus on spending time with my family." The music legend's family will hold a small, private service in the wake of coronavirus worries before celebrating Kenny's legacy publicly with fans and friends. Watch the video to learn Why Kenny Rogers And Dolly Parton Never Dated! #DollyParton #KennyRogers