Dolly Parton celebrating 50 years with the Grand Ole Opry

"Dolly Parton: 50 Years at the Opry" airs 9-11 p.m. Tuesday on WCYB and will feature interviews with country music's biggest stars, as well as a look at Parton's anniversary bash that took place on Oct. 12.

BRISTOL, Tenn. --- Dolly Parton will celebrate 50 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry with a special program on NBC Tuesday night.

"Dolly Parton: 50 Years at the Opry" airs 9-11 p.m. Tuesday on WCYB and will feature interviews with country music's biggest stars, as well as a look at Parton's anniversary bash that took place on Oct. 12.

While the program will be aired nationally on NBC affiliates, Parton holds a special place in the hearts of Appalachians as the Queen of East Tennessee.

"When you get to that status, where you instantly recognize one name, she's done very well," said Tim White, musician, and host of the bluegrass television program 'Song of the Mountains.' "She's done very well. You know... Dolly!"

No one lights up a room quite like Dolly.

"Not only is she a great entertainer and has made her mark and made a great living out of the music but she's a good person," White said.

Dolly has captivated generations of music fans.

"And she's still going," said Liz Wilson, a Dolly fan from Hampton, Va. "That's the important thing. It doesn't matter how old you get, you keep going."

Dolly is a driving force for tourism, through her ever-evolving resort Dollywood, has a passion for childhood literacy and donated millions of dollars in support of people impacted by deadly wildfires that ripped through Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge three years ago.

"Just because she's Dolly. There's no way to describe her but that," said Leah Ross, executive director of the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.

"She is the queen."