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Dolly Parton’s estate fires nephew Bryan Seaver from security role after singer’s death
23rd September, 2026 11:44 AM
Dolly Parton’s nephew Bryan Seaver has spoken about losing his longtime role as head of security for the late singer’s properties, saying the decision came unexpectedly.
Seaver, who represented Parton’s family when they announced her death on August 25, 2026, had managed security for her properties for more than two decades. His position came to an end after his security company received a termination notice on Monday, September 21, 2026.
Seaver reacts to termination
Seaver, the son of Parton’s late younger sister Cassie, said he was surprised by the decision and had not been given an explanation for the move. According to the report, the termination was issued through Parton’s former manager Danny Nozell and Pinnacle Bank.
Seaver said he was “dismayed by the unexpected and, so far, unexplained actions”.
The notice immediately removed his security access to Parton’s properties. However, it stated that his personal interest in the family trust was not affected.
Seaver says his responsibility continues
Despite losing his security position, Seaver said he still considers himself responsible for carrying out what he described as Parton’s final wishes concerning her family. “We remain unshakably resolved to fulfil her final directive to protect her family,” Seaver said.
He also criticised the circumstances surrounding the decision, saying he would continue with what he believed was his responsibility to the family.
Seaver remembered his role with Parton
The employment change comes weeks after Seaver spoke publicly about his relationship with Parton while announcing her death. He had served as her head of security for more than 20 years, taking over the role from his father, Larry Seaver.
Reflecting on their professional relationship after her death was announced, Bryan said the moment carried both pride and sadness.
“As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment, but haven’t truly felt it until now,” Seaver said in an Instagram video.
He described working for Parton as a major honour and spoke about the impact she had on their family. “It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness,” he said.
Parton’s influence on her family
Seaver also spoke about the opportunities Parton created for members of her family throughout her career. He said her example encouraged them to believe that they could achieve more than they had imagined.
“Dolly opened doors not just for me, but for her entire family to reach the potential we didn’t even know was possible,” Seaver said.
He added that Parton’s ability to create opportunities had left a lasting mark on the family and the wider music industry. “She never saw a door she couldn’t open, and the doors she opened made and changed history,” Seaver added.
Parton, an 11-time Grammy winner, was also remembered by relatives, fellow artists and fans following news of her death. Her family has continued to share memories of the singer and the impact she had on those around her.
