Gov. Lee, Dolly Parton Announce America 250 Short Film

Governor Bill Lee has announced Tennessee: The Original Frontier, a short film celebrating the people, places, and events that define the state’s contributions to America, according to the Governor’s Press Office.

Dolly Parton will be narrating the film.

The short film highlights the state’s history, from early frontier roots and agricultural heritage to its influence on music and culture.

The video can be seen here: https://app.box.com/s/kahsnb9y3nj9plab90atjl0sx41v33ya 

“As we approach the 250th anniversary of American independence, I’m grateful to Dolly Parton for lending her powerful voice to Tennessee’s story of courage, perseverance, and opportunity. This short film honors the generations of Tennesseans whose contributions shaped America, and invites people across our state and nation to reflect on our rich heritage that defines us.”

– Governor Lee said.

This comes after Governor Lee’s July 2025 announcement of a statewide America 250 celebration.

This would happen by by visiting historic farms in each of Tennessee’s Grand Divisions to honor the state’s agricultural industry, according to the Governor’s Press Office.