Hersheypark is facing backlash online after its social media account responded to a post praising Dolly Parton’s Dollywood with a comment about its own ticket prices.
The controversy unfolded on August 25, the same day news broke that Parton had died at age 80. A user on X praised Dollywood for keeping its admission prices relatively affordable and shared a screenshot of the park’s ticket pricing.
Hersheypark’s official account then replied, “Our summer tickets are $49.99.”
Although the comment appeared to be a simple reference to Hersheypark’s own admission prices, its timing and placement quickly drew criticism. Many users viewed the response as insensitive because it appeared in a conversation about Dollywood shortly after Parton’s death.
The comment was later deleted as the criticism spread online.
Hersheypark subsequently apologized and explained that the response was not intended as a comparison with Dollywood or as a comment about Parton’s death. According to the park, a member of its social media team had been trying to correct inaccurate Hersheypark ticket information in another conversation and did not realize the context in which the reply would appear.
“We sincerely apologize for any insensitivity,” the park said while addressing the incident.
The situation quickly became a topic of discussion among Dolly Parton fans, with many saying the response came at an especially unfortunate time.
Parton was closely associated with Dollywood, which she helped launch under its current name in 1986. Following her death, the Tennessee theme park said it would continue operating and honoring the legacy and values she brought to the attraction.
While Hersheypark has acknowledged the mistake and apologized, the incident has continued to generate discussion online about how brands handle social media conversations surrounding major news and the deaths of beloved public figures.