Elle King Opens Up About 'Disassociating' While Performing Drunk at the Grand Ole Opry

Elle King had a tough time earlier this year, which caused her to make a mistake at the Grand Ole Opry during Dolly Parton's birthday celebration.

During a recent episode of the "Dear Chelsea" podcast with comedian Chelsea Handler on Thursday, May 16, King admitted to her misstep. She shared, "I made a big mistake. I not only swore and was drunk on stage at the Grand Ole Opry, but it happened during a tribute to Dolly Parton on her birthday."

King needed some time to relax before speaking about the incident. She mentioned to Handler that it was a significant event for her.

In January, the musician caused a stir by swearing on stage during the "Opry Goes Dolly" show in Nashville. She yelled at a fan in the audience, saying, "You ain't getting your money back. I'll tell you one thing more: 'Hi, my name is Elle King [and] I'm f—king hammered.'" The Opry issued an apology the next day.

"That day was a tough one for me, and it's something I'm still dealing with," King shared on the Thursday podcast. "I struggle with severe PTSD. I didn't eat or sleep for days, and I felt completely overwhelmed. I didn't feel like myself."

Elle King Had Disassociated During Drunk Grand Ole Opry Performance 2

Elle King took the stage at the 56th Academy of Country Music Awards at the Grand Ole Opry on April 18, 2021 in Nashville, Tennessee. Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for ACM

She shared, "I had one too many shots, and I felt completely disconnected from my body. I couldn't even remember what happened. All I know is that I announced, 'I'm Elle King, and I'm really drunk,' before the curtain closed on me."

Upon reflecting on the incident, King confessed that she only has brief moments of memory about what happened that night. She shared with Handler that she completely disconnected from the situation. King recalled crying on the floor of her dressing room.

Feeling embarrassed, she further explained, "I was mortified." King took the initiative to personally write apology letters to the Opry and to Dolly.

Parton, who is 78 years old, was described by King as "proof that angels exist." King shared that Parton offered her kind words and reassured her by saying, "Well, Dolly’s not mad at you, why should the world be?" Parton's words brought laughter to King during a difficult time.

After two months had passed since the incident in January, King finally broke her silence on Instagram.

On March 10, she expressed gratitude to those sending her love and also to those who wished harm upon her. Parton had shown support for King the month before.

In February, the country music legend shared with E! News about Elle King, saying, "She is a doll." He mentioned reaching out to her and suggesting to focus on positive "F-words" like forgiveness, friends, and forget it.

Editor's P/S:

Elle King's candid admission of her struggles with PTSD and the subsequent incident at the Grand Ole Opry is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Her honesty in sharing her experience sheds light on the challenges faced by those living with PTSD and the importance of seeking help. It also highlights the power of forgiveness and compassion, as evidenced by Dolly Parton's gracious response.

King's experience also serves as a reminder that even celebrities are not immune to mental health issues. Her willingness to speak out about her struggles may encourage others to seek support and break the stigma surrounding mental illness. The outpouring of love and support she received from Parton and others demonstrates that there is hope and understanding for those who are struggling.