Dolly Parton and Brad Paisley Encourage COVID Vaccination During ACM Awards
They want fans to get vaccinated, ASAP.
Country superstars Dolly Parton and Brad Paisley delivered a special message of health and hope at Sunday’s 56th annual ACM Awards, appearing in two PSAs about COVID-19 vaccines.
Teaming with Nashville’s Vanderbilt Health, the hitmakers touted the benefits of getting the shot, with Parton even getting hers on camera.
The first clip starred Parton, who began by singing “vaccine, vaccine, vaciiiinnne” to the melody of her famous “Jolene.” The commercial was intended to encourage fans to get vaccinated when eligible, since most Americans are now able to get one of the multiple vaccines, but many are hesitant — especially after officials paused use of the Johnson & Johnson treatment. But after donating $1 million to make the Moderna vaccine possible, Dolly Parton is convinced of the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness, and wants to calm concerns.
“I know I’m trying to be funny now,” the icon laughed after singing her vaccine jingle, “but I’m dead serious about the vaccine. Now I just wanted to encourage everybody because the sooner we get to feeling better, the sooner we get back to being normal.”
Paisley, meanwhile, appeared in a clip reminding viewers of all the entertainment we’ve been missing out on, highlighting Nashville athletes and empty arenas with the “Be a Fan. Take the Shot” campaign.
“We want your cheers. We want you in the upper decks, and in the front row,” Paisley said. “We want you to see us break records, and break ground. And when it’s safe to come back, we want you on the best part of your seat — the edge of it. So when it’s your turn to get the vaccine, be a fan. Take the shot.”
Both clips aired during the ACM Awards broadcast and will soon begin airing nationally, as Parton and Paisley help turn the tide against the pandemic.
“Dolly’s generous gifts are from the heart,” says Jeff Balser, president and CEO for Vanderbilt University Medical Center and dean of Vanderbilt School of Medicine. “Her support of COVID-19 research has already benefited more than 87 million people in the U.S. who have received the Moderna vaccine. Her gift also helped answer important questions about the safety and effectiveness of treatments for COVID patients.
“With vaccine supplies now growing, we still have a challenge with reluctance to get the shot. Brad Paisley graciously stepped forward to help us bring greater awareness about the benefits of getting the vaccine. We are incredibly grateful for the support from these two global superstars in our ongoing battle with COVID-19.”
