Dolly Parton’s Open-casket Service: Makeup Artist Cheryl Riddle Prepared Her Final Look

Okay, grab your coffee—or your sweet tea—because we need to talk about something that’s both morbid and fabulous. You’ve heard the buzz: Dolly Parton, our national treasure of rhinestones and wit, has been planning her own open-casket service. And who did she tap for her final look? None other than her longtime makeup artist, Cheryl Riddle. Yes, the woman who made Dolly glow for decades is now tasked with the ultimate touch-up.

Now, before you get all somber, let’s be real: Dolly isn’t planning to leave this earth anytime soon. She’s just being practical—and, as always, a little hilarious. She told a reporter, “I want to look just as good dead as I do alive.” And honestly? Same, girl. Same. Cheryl Riddle, the master of lashes and contour, revealed she’s already got a strategy: “We’ll go heavy on the shimmer, and I’ll use a setting spray that withstands eternity.” (I’m picturing the Holy Spirit as a makeup artist with a fan.)

The plan, apparently, includes Dolly’s signature Cleopatra eyeliner, a bold pink lip, and enough glitter to blind the angels. Cheryl joked, “If heaven has a drag show, Dolly’s headlining.” There’s even talk of a special wig that stays perfect in the casket—because no one wants a bad hair day at their own funeral. It’s all very Dolly: turning death into a photo op with a punchline.

Look, we’re not crying; we’re just glittering. The point is, Dolly Parton has given us one more gift: permission to face the end with style, humor, and a full face of makeup. So when your time comes, remember: the final look matters, but the laughter you leave behind lasts forever. And if you don’t book Cheryl Riddle, you’re just not trying. 💖