Former WWE superstar Ric Flair may have missed the mark with his remarks about the late Dolly Parton.
It was sadly announced on Tuesday that Parton passed away at the age of 80. The 11-time Grammy Award winner who produced hits such as “Jolene” and “9 to 5” died after a brief battle with cancer.
“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand,” her reps said in a statement. “Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact. After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.”
Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
After Parton’s death was confirmed by her reps, Flair posted what was supposed to be a heartfelt message on social media.
Unfortunately, it was anything but that.
“Dolly, I’m 77, 3 Years Behind You, And I Only Hope That People Remember Me In The Same Light As You And Your Greatness! And You’re A Much Bigger Star Than I Ever Dreamed Of Being,” the WWE legend wrote on social media.
Fans didn’t hold back on Ric Flair.
Most of Flair’s social media followers ripped him for turning a tribute to Parton into a message about himself and his legacy.
“How have you turned a tribute to Dolly all about yourself? That’s shameful,” one person replied.
“You should delete this post… totally disrespectful,” one fan commented.
“I guess you just can’t help yourself and no chance of changing at this point,” another fan wrote.
Flair hasn’t responded to his critics, nor do we expect him to at this point.
