TV

Dolly Parton inks big deal with NBC

Dolly Parton has signed a development deal with NBC to produce a series of TV movies based on her life.

The two-hour movies will incorporate the legendary country singer’s songs, 110 of which have reached the country charts, including 25 albums certified gold, platinum or multi-platinum.

“We want to create projects for NBC that are both fun and inspirational with a family audience in mind,” Parton said in a statement.

In her 50-plus year career, Parton has composed hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You” (which became a smash hit for Whitney Houston); starred in movies like “Steel Magnolias” and “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”; and opened the Dollywood theme park.

The deal reunites Parton with NBC Entertainment chairman Bob Greenblatt, who produced the Broadway version of “9 to 5,” the 1980 film that earned the singer an Oscar nomination for the title song.

Sam Haskell of Magnolia Hill Entertainment and Warner Bros. Television will co-produce the TV movies.