Dolly as Dolly?

kofler22 said: "I read on a Bette Midler fan site that the producers are seeking Dolly Parton as a replacement after Bette leaves. Is that true? What do you think of that idea??"





Not true!

That would be genius! Someone should talk to Dolly about this.

I love Dolly heart and soul, but truth of the matter is shes not a particularly good actress. I don't think she could play an Irish Yenta very well. Plus Dolly hates exercise and sweating and would never do the dancing (she controls her weight by limiting carbs-one of her handlers told me that).

As much as I'd love it I think it's a pipe dream.

She's a country music legend, but her persona is so strong, I can't imagine her being able to disappear into the part. And, as with other big stars, why would she want to be a replacement?

While Bette may not disappear in the role, it's a perfect example of when artist and role blend beautifully. Bette herself is not the Divine Miss M-that's also acting. So when people see familiar mannerisms it's Bette acting. Even if they think they are just seeing Bette herself, they aren't. They are seeing her craft. That's why it bothers me when reviewers say she is just being herself on stage. Uh, hello, she is not. That's not her. She's wildly talented but pretty low key in her day to day.

Now as for Dolly. When Dolly is cast, she is cast as Dolly. She alters nothing about herself-her hair, make-up, clothes or her speaking voice. You're hiring the package. You can't have a Southern Dolly Levi. She killed the Mae West project because she'd have to alter her speaking voice and wear short wigs (which Dolly dont like or do). Dolly likes total creative control and taking over for Bette would probably not appeal to her.