Back in 2009, Dolly Parton told the world that Miley Cyrus was her goddaughter. This was by request of the future star’s dad, country legend Billy Ray Cyrus. “When she was born, [her father] said, ‘You just have to be her godmother,’ and I said, ‘I accept.’”
In a fun bit of art imitating life, Parton’s status ended up becoming a part of Hannah Montana lore. This Disney Channel show helped to make Cyrus a household name, and Parton actually played the star’s godmother in the show. While these cameos were a very public way to celebrate being Cyrus’ godmother, the original celebration was far more subdued.
According to Parton, both she and Cyrus were happy to keep their godmother celebration very lowkey. “We never did do a big ceremony, but I’m so proud of her, love her,” Parton said. “And she’s just like one of my own.”
