Dolly Parton estate files restraining order against nephew amid alleged threats

A Tennessee court has issued a restraining order against Bryan Seaver, the nephew of the late singer Dolly Parton, after the estate alleged he sent threatening texts to staff and business partners. The lawsuit, filed by the She’s Alive corporation that manages Parton’s assets, claims Seaver used his security firm, Squadron Augmented Protection Services, to intimidate employees and demand changes to the Dolly Parton brand.

According to court documents, Seaver allegedly threatened to damage the brand’s partnerships and to publicize alleged violations unless his demands were met. The filings also state he described himself as a “mercenary” and an “international arms dealer,” and referenced sales of ammunition to foreign police forces.

“It’s hard to imagine many people having a bigger impact than Dolly Parton,” former President Barack Obama wrote in a tribute.

“I know she is in a better place. She loved life, but she loved productivity and she loved having fun,” Parton’s sister Stella said on a morning television interview.

Parton’s longtime manager Danny Nozell said employees felt unsafe after receiving the messages, and some reportedly quit. Seaver has not commented on the allegations. The estate’s attorney, Derek Crownover, said the legal action does not affect Seaver’s status as a beneficiary of the trust, and that co-trustees will contact him regarding his interests.

A hearing is scheduled for October 7 to consider a temporary injunction against Seaver and his security company.