Hersheypark apologizes for insensitive social media post regarding Dolly Parton

Hersheypark has issued apologies following social media backlash after a post regarding its ticket prices was made in response to a thread memorializing the late country music icon Dolly Parton.

Following the news of Parton’s death at age 80, a fan on X (formerly Twitter) praised Dollywood for maintaining reasonable admission prices. A Hersheypark account responded to the thread by stating, “Our summer tickets are $49.99.” The comment was quickly deleted, but screenshots led to widespread criticism from users who labeled the response “tactless” and “disgusting.”

In a statement to PEOPLE and on social media, Hersheypark explained that a member of their social media team intended to correct inaccurate pricing information in a separate conversation and did not realize the reply would appear within the context of the memorial thread. The park stated, “We sincerely apologize for any insensitivity,” and expressed their condolences for the loss of Parton.