Country music fans have likely heard about Dolly Parton's new musical, which will premiere in Nashville this July before heading to Broadway in 2026. But she's not the only country icon who is heading to the Great White Way.
Loretta Lynn's life story is being adapted into a musical too, fittingly called Coal Miner's Daughter. According to the late singer's official website, the musical is in development now. Unlike Dolly's show, which had a talent search to find their stars, Loretta's role will be performed by Tony Award winning actress Sutton Foster. Sam Gold will direct, with music production by Jeaning Tesori.
The musical is being overseen by Loretta's daughter, Patsy, and her longtime adviser, Nancy Russell. It takes inspiration from Loretta's 1980 autobiography and film of the same name and will chronicle the singer's life from rural Kentucky to country music superstardom and will feature some of the singer's classic hits.
A statement released by her family says, "We are so grateful to see that our mother's life story and music will continue to touch the hearts of audiences and remain an important statement of the American dream."
What's more, Loretta gave her sign-off on the musical and Sutton's involvement before her death in 2022. The family says, “As one of the last creative projects our mom was so passionate about, we are thankful that she had the opportunity to experience the initial stages of Sutton's sincere portrayal of Loretta. Mom absolutely fell in love with her and thought she was just the right person to play her onstage. The family is moved by this incredible team's commitment to her legacy."
The only thing we need to know is when we can buy our tickets!
Katie Bowlby is Digital Director at Country Living, where she covers pop culture news including country music, Yellowstone, and all things HGTV, plus gift guides and product reviews. She has been with Country Living for more than 11 years. Before that, she worked for Southern Living. The Indiana University grad also stitches up the cross-stitch pattern for every issue of the magazine.
