How to Watch Dolly Parton’s ‘I Will Always Love You’ Celebration Live – Free Options Included

On Wednesday, October 21, the Country Music Association will roll out a star‑studded, two‑hour live tribute titled “I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton.” It starts at 9 p.m. Eastern on ABC and will showcase a who’s‑who of country and pop talent honoring Dolly’s songwriting genius, philanthropy, and unmistakable charm.

If you’re the sort of viewer who prefers watching from the couch rather than fiddling with a remote, there are a few ways to catch the broadcast without shelling out extra cash. DIRECTV, Fubo TV and Sling TV all offer free‑trial periods that line up perfectly with the air time. Sign up, tune in, and you’ll be watching the whole thing at no charge – just remember to cancel before the trial ends if you don’t want to be billed.

For those who miss the live slot, the special lands on‑demand the next day on Hulu and Disney+ (the latter bundled with HBO Max). Unfortunately those platforms don’t currently hand out free trials, so you’ll need an existing subscription or be prepared to pay the monthly fee.

The lineup reads like a country‑music Hall of Fame roster. Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, Little Big Town, Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, Brad Paisley and Darius Rucker are all slated to perform. Adding a splash of Broadway flair, actors Kristen Bell and Kristin Chenoweth will also take the stage, while bluegrass virtuosos Sierra Hull and Béla Fleck bring a rootsy flavor to the mix.

All of the performances are being taped at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville – a venue that already feels like a second home to Dolly. If you’re curious about the rehearsal vibe, a behind‑the‑scenes video is up on YouTube, giving you a peek at the nerves, jokes, and heartfelt moments that go into a night like this.

In short, whether you’re a lifelong Dolly fan, a country‑music aficionado, or just someone who loves a good live‑musical event, there’s a way for you to watch without breaking the bank. Grab a free trial, set a reminder for 9 p.m. ET, and get ready for a night of unforgettable duets, classic hits, and a whole lot of love.