Dolly Parton’s ‘Run, Rose, Run’ Journey to the Big Screen
Dolly Parton has a packed schedule on the horizon. The Iron Butterfly got candid about her upcoming aspirations — and

Dolly Parton has a packed schedule on the horizon. The Iron Butterfly got candid about her upcoming aspirations — and did some serious name-dropping — in a recent interview with Nancy O’Dell and talkshoplive.
Dolly Parton and author James Patterson discussed their collaborative novel “Run, Rose, Run ” and its transition to the silver screen. She also dishes the details regarding her upcoming album.
See: MILEY CYRUS EXCITES FANS WITH DOLLY PARTON AS HER NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY CO-HOST
Some Novel Success
“Run, Rose, Run” is the New York Times bestselling novel authored by Dolly Parton and James Patterson. The novel tells the tale of AnnieLee Kayes, an up-and-coming country music sensation that sprints to stardom in Nashville. Running from her past and fixing on her future, she encounters a slew of thrills and turbulent twists that deliver hard hits, but don’t slow her down.
Its skyrocketing success has earned the novel Walmart’s Book of the Year, which was news that Dolly and Patterson were thrilled to receive.
“I jumped up and down, I couldn’t believe it, I called James,” Dolly told Nancy O’Dell on talkshoplive. “We were very excited.”
Overarching themes to the story are self-discovery and strength of character, which Dolly touches on.
“It’s about finding yourself, your true self. It’s about finding your confidence and really being true to your talent,” she said, “and … being willing to grow, being willing to learn and from your mistakes.”
The Bespoke Book Soundtrack
Dolly wrote each song featured in the book herself. The “Run, Rose, Run” discography released on March 4, 2022 and features tracks from the novel itself, including “Big Dreams and Faded Jeans” and “Demons,” all akin to the thematic elements of the plot.
Movie Magic in the Making
Excited to announce that @SonyPictures is partnering with @HelloSunshine on the movie adaptation of the New York Times best-seller ‘Run Rose Run,’ and that the one and only @DollyParton will star in the film! 🎥
— Run Rose Run (@RunRoseRun) June 7, 2022
https://t.co/8uoAt9h0Po pic.twitter.com/PObGmV13rN
The much-awaited movie adaptation — in which Dolly is contributing a starring role —finds its roots from the novel and Dolly’s rise to stardom. Dolly is adapting Ruthanna’s character, a music business veteran that guides AnnieLee in her career journey.
Dolly is hoping to onboard a solid lineup of stars for the roles of Jack and AnnieLee, the novel’s protagonists. Award-winning actors like George Clooney are on the list of hopefuls.
[James] keeps talking about George Clooney and I agree with him … maybe George Clooney actually playing the part of Jack in the movie,” said Dolly.
Media powerhouse Hello Sunshine is spearheading the project. Reese Witherspoon, company owner and the producer for “Run, Rose, Run,” will remain absent from the cast.
“I wish she was in the movie but she’s a little too busy on that end,” Dolly noted. “She’s a little too old to be [AnnieLee] and I’m really stealing that other one so she ain’t getting my part.”
New Albums, Same Dolly
“Run, Rose, Run” is not the only passion project Dolly is undertaking. Her recent induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has spurned a new conquest — her rock album.
Dolly is crafting her first-ever rock album for its alleged fall 2023 release. If the associated actors for her upcoming film didn’t constitute enough star power, the hopeful features for Dolly’s new album will. She hinted at the discography name “Rockstar” in her interview, and is hoping to include the likes of Elton John, Steve Perry, Beyonce, Ed Sheeran, Mick Jagger and even Stevie Nicks.
“I’m asking all of them,” Dolly stated. “I’ve written a song called Bittersweet that I had [Stevie] so in my mind that we could sing together on. I’m going to approach her about it and hopefully she’ll have time and be willing to do it.
Can’t wait until the next album release? “Diamonds & Rhinestones” dropped on November 18 and features household hits such as “9 to 5” and “Jolene” for some reminiscence.