Dolly Parton doesn’t label herself a ‘feminist’: ‘I think I just live my femininity’

'I’m proud to be a woman'

Dolly Parton doesn’t identify as a “feminist”.

While the beloved American country singer is renowned for female-empowering hits, such as “9 to 5” and “Jolene”, she revealed that she prefers to avoid the label.

"I think that I just live my femininity,” the 73-year-old told Sky News.

“I mean, people say 'are you a feminist?' And I say, I don't know what that means.”

Parton added that she takes a lot of pride in being female.

“I’m proud to be a woman, proud to be a woman in business, proud enough to do what I do.”

The Tennessee-born performer went on to explain how she’d love to see a woman become President of the United States.

“She needs to have the goods, she needs to have the knowledge, needs to have the backbone to be able to run a country.”

Parton has been in the UK to promote 9 to 5 The Musical at The Savoy Theatre in London, which features music and lyrics by the country singer and tells the story of a female office worker who avenges her sexist boss.

Parton spoke about the links between the musical’s plot and the #MeToo movement on the red carpet before a gala performance.

“I think it is as relevant now as it was before,” Parton told press with regards to the storyline.

“In a way, with the new #MeToo movement, I think this is a really good time for it, and that’s what really inspired them to actually come here to the West End to do it.”

Parton isn't the only female celebrity to distance herself from the "feminist" label, with Sarah Jessica Parker and Venus Williams both doing the same in recent years.

9 to 5 the Musical is on at The Savoy Theatre in London now.