The estate of the late country singer Dolly Parton has abandoned its lawsuit against her nephew, Bryan Seaver.
She’s Alive LLC, the firm created to protect the “Jolene” singer’s affairs after her death, filed a notice of voluntary dismissal in the Chancery Court of Tennessee.
The dismissal was filed without prejudice, meaning the case could be filed again in the future.
Bryan is “grateful to put this misunderstanding behind him” now.
His attorney told TMZ in a statement: “Mr Seaver cares deeply about his Aunt Dolly, her music, her family, and the incredible legacy she left behind.
“He has made a career out of protecting his aunt while she was alive and remains committed to Dolly and his entire family. Mr Seaver is grateful to put this misunderstanding behind him so that the entire family can continue to grieve peacefully and ensure that the bright light of Dolly’s legacy remains entirely untouched.”
The lawsuit had alleged that Bryan threatened to “destroy” the “9 to 5” singer’s brand partnerships.
It had also claimed he made other threats that led to the resignation of multiple employees. She’s Alive is headed by Dolly’s manager Danny Nozell.
Bryan denied making threats and argued his private messages with Danny had been taken out of context because, while they contained “profane” language, the exchanges were “ultimately friendly”.
Bryan was fired as head of security shortly after the country legend died in August. He was subsequently issued a temporary restraining order by She’s Alive.
Less than two weeks ago, Bryan shared a lengthy message on Facebook written by his mother Cassie.
She expressed her support for her son amid her grief over her older sister.
She wrote: “In recent weeks, I have been asked to make a public statement concerning my son, Bryan Seaver. While I have struggled with the thought of speaking publicly during such a painful and personal time, I feel it is important that I share what is in my heart – not to address disagreements or disputes, but simply to speak as a mother who dearly loves her son.”
She stressed Bryan had a “very special and meaningful relationship” with Dolly, who had chosen him to make the announcement about her death.
She added: “I recognise that we are living through circumstances involving deeply personal matters, differing perspectives, and issues that deserve to be addressed thoughtfully, respectfully, and through the appropriate channels.
“My love for my son does not require me to publicly judge others, take sides in disagreements, or speak about matters that I may not fully understand. Nor should my silence on any particular issue ever be mistaken for a lack of love or concern for my child.(sic)”