Country music icon Reba McEntire came to her longtime friend Dolly Parton’s defense after The View co-host Joy Behar made a controversial comment about Parton’s classic hit, “Jolene.”

The Controversy: Joy Behar Criticizes “Jolene” Lyrics

The drama started when Beyoncé released her first country album, Cowboy Carter, which included a reimagined version of “Jolene.” Unlike the original, where Parton pleads with Jolene not to take her man, Beyoncé’s version takes a more assertive, no-nonsense approach.

Beyoncé opens her version with:

🗣️ “Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene / I’m warning you, don’t come for my man.”

During a podcast appearance, Joy Behar applauded the change, saying:

💬 “I like the subject of Beyoncé taking over the lyrics. I just think that the original thing with Dolly Parton is so, like, anti-feminist, worrying about some good-looking woman taking your man.”

This comment sparked backlash among Parton’s loyal fans, who defended the original song as a classic storytelling ballad rather than a statement on feminism.

Reba McEntire’s Response: Classy, Yet Clear

TMZ reporters caught up with Reba McEntire to get her thoughts on the drama. Instead of engaging in the debate, the Fancy singer responded with a simple yet telling remark:

💬 “Beautiful day, isn’t it?”

When asked whether she preferred Dolly’s or Beyoncé’s version of “Jolene”, McEntire refused to pick sides, simply saying:

💬 “Nope.”

McEntire’s classy and diplomatic response is a true testament to her friendship with Parton—choosing to stay above the controversy rather than add fuel to the fire.

Mixed Reactions to Beyoncé’s “Jolene” Cover

While Joy Behar praised Beyoncé’s take on the song, not everyone was a fan. British singer and actress Lily Allen publicly shared her disapproval, saying:

💬 “It wasn’t good… It’s very weird that you cover the most successful songs in that genre.”

With opinions divided, the debate over which version of “Jolene” reigns supreme continues.

What Do You Think?

Did Joy Behar go too far in criticizing Dolly Parton’s lyrics? Do you prefer Beyoncé’s take, or does the original “Jolene” remain unbeatable?

👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments!