Sony Pictures Lands Film Adaptation of “Run, Rose, Run”

Published June 8, 2022 / Last Updated February 9, 2023
Team Dolly is a collaboration of writers, editors, and publishers assembled by Dolly Parton Productions. Each member is dedicated to accurately publishing the latest news and historical archives of the living legend that is Dolly Rebecca Parton.

Managing Editor - Jacob Timmons
Creative Director - Sarah Chapman
Team Dolly

Sony Pictures commits to “Run, Rose, Run” theatrical release starring Dolly Parton, with Reese Witherspoon set to produce via her Hello Sunshine banner.

In a highly competitive bidding situation, Sony Pictures has landed the film adaptation of “Run, Rose, Run,” set to star 11-time Grammy-winning and two-time Academy Award-nominated singer-songwriter Dolly Parton.

“I am thrilled to be bringing ‘Run, Rose, Run’ to Sony Pictures,” Dolly shared. “I’m looking forward to working with Sony and being in the movie as well. It’s a good time to be excited, working with some of my favorite people.”

Dolly’s first novel, “Run, Rose, Run,” co-written with best-selling author James Patterson, has remained a New York Times best-seller since its publication by Little, Brown & Company on March 7. A novel glittering with danger and desire, the story is about a young woman who heads to Nashville to pursue her music-making dreams and is taken under the wing of a giant female musical icon. The source of their heart-wrenching songs are secrets that both have tried to hide. Featuring twelve original songs that tie into the storyline, Dolly also released a companion album of the same name through her own Butterfly Records, which debuted to number 1 on the Current Country Albums, American/Folk and Bluegrass charts.

“Run, Rose, Run” debuted at the number 1 spot on The New York Times bestseller list and spent 5 weeks at #1, making it the longest-running #1 New York Times bestseller of the decade and the bestselling novel of the year. The book’s success led to a fierce bidding war when the film project was announced shortly after, and it was Sony’s commitment to a theatrical release that secured the deal.

“Run, Rose, Run” – The Film

Dolly and James Patterson, via his company James Patterson Entertainment, will produce the feature alongside Reese Witherspoon via her Hello Sunshine banner, which worked with Sony Pictures on the upcoming adaptation of best-seller “Where the Crawdads Sing.” Lauren Neustadter is also producing for Hello Sunshine with Ashley Strumwasser executive producing, while Maia Eyre will oversee the project for Sony Pictures.

James Patterson said, “I want to watch this movie and say ‘I love this film.’ And that’s exactly why I’m so excited to be working with Hello Sunshine and Sony Pictures. They’re the best at what they do.”

“Dolly Parton and Jim Patterson. Are you kidding me? An entirely unique dynamic duo. Plus Hello Sunshine! We feel lucky as hell and grateful,” said Tom Rothman, Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures’ Motion Picture Group.

Having starred in hit films including ‘9 to 5,” “Steel Magnolias” and “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”, “Run, Rose, Run” marks the first time Dolly will have a starring role on the big screen since her popular 1992 flick, “Straight Talk.” In addition to starring in and producing the film, Dolly will also be writing original songs to be featured in the big-screen adaptation.

Reese Witherspoon shared, “Counting my lucky stars that I get to collaborate with this dream team! Working with Dolly and James, who are both master storytellers, is a dream come true for me. I am overjoyed to have Sony Pictures on board as we work alongside Dolly Parton – a luminous personality, magnetic presence, and brilliant songwriter and storyteller – to bring Dolly’s gripping and heartbreaking story to the screen. We hope that this film will not only entertain but also inspire women and girls everywhere to keep dreaming.”

Team DollySony Pictures Lands Film Adaptation of “Run, Rose, Run”

Dolly Parton to Star in “Run, Rose, Run” Feature Film

Published March 21, 2022 / Last Updated February 9, 2023
Team Dolly is a collaboration of writers, editors, and publishers assembled by Dolly Parton Productions. Each member is dedicated to accurately publishing the latest news and historical archives of the living legend that is Dolly Rebecca Parton.

Managing Editor - Jacob Timmons
Creative Director - Sarah Chapman
Team Dolly

Hello Sunshine Partners with Dolly Parton and James Patterson to Produce Their #1 Bestselling Novel, “Run, Rose, Run” as a Feature Film

Dolly Parton is set to star in Hello Sunshine’s feature film adaptation of “Run, Rose, Run,” her recently-released novel, co-authored by James Patterson.

Dolly and James will produce the feature alongside Reese Witherspoon and Hello Sunshine’s President of Film and Television, Lauren Neustadter. Ashley Strumwasser will executive produce for Hello Sunshine.

“I’m proud, excited and honored to be working with my good friend Reese Witherspoon and Hello Sunshine on the movie of ‘Run, Rose, Run’ from the novel I co-wrote with James Patterson,” Dolly said. “James and I love Reese and look forward to working with her and her wonderful team.”

The Chart-Topping Novel and Album

Published on March 7, 2022, by Little, Brown and Company, the novel “Run, Rose, Run” debuted at #1 on The New York Times Best Seller list. Dolly also released a companion album of the same title on March 4, 2022, through her Butterfly Records label. The album debuted at #1 on the Current Country albums, Americana/Folk and Bluegrass charts.

Set in Nashville, “Run, Rose, Run” is about a young woman who comes to country music’s capital city to pursue her music-making dreams. The source of her heart-wrenching songs is a brutal secret she has tried desperately to hide, but the past she has fled is reaching out to control her future—and it may destroy everything she has worked for.

“It has been a joy working with Dolly Parton on this book,” James said. “It’s a great story that we are both proud of. And, in partnership with Reese Witherspoon and Hello Sunshine, we will produce a great movie.”

From Page to Screen

Reese Witherspoon shared,

“Growing up in Nashville, I’ve loved Dolly since the moment I heard her magical voice and saw her luminous personality shine onstage. Beyond her magnetic presence as an artist and performer, she is one of the greatest songwriters and storytellers of our time. Her impact knows no bounds — as a musician, actor, writer, businesswoman, activist and all around incredible human being — Dolly Parton is not only an icon to me, but a true inspiration to women and girls everywhere.

“My admiration for [Dolly] grew to even greater heights when reading ‘Run, Rose, Run,’ a gripping and heartbreaking book I couldn’t put down. I couldn’t feel more honored to be working alongside her and James to bring this remarkable story to the screen.”

“Run, Rose, Run” — Available Now

Get Dolly’s latest album, “Run, Rose, Run,” available now on all digital streaming platforms and as a digital download, as well as on CD, standard vinyl and some special vinyl color variants. The novel, co-authored by James Patterson, is now available in stores and online in hardcover, ebook and audiobook.

Team DollyDolly Parton to Star in “Run, Rose, Run” Feature Film

Now Available: Dolly Parton Releases “Run, Rose, Run” Novel With Bestselling Author James Patterson

Published March 4, 2022 / Last Updated February 9, 2023
Team Dolly is a collaboration of writers, editors, and publishers assembled by Dolly Parton Productions. Each member is dedicated to accurately publishing the latest news and historical archives of the living legend that is Dolly Rebecca Parton.

Managing Editor - Jacob Timmons
Creative Director - Sarah Chapman
Team Dolly

Dolly Parton’s First Novel, “Run, Rose, Run,” Launches with Companion Album and Virtual Book Tour

Musical icon Dolly Parton teamed up with world-renowned bestselling author, James Patterson, to write her first-ever novel. “Run, Rose, Run” is a fiction thriller about a young singer-songwriter on the rise and on the run, determined to do whatever it takes to survive. The highly-anticipated novel is now available for purchase, along with the companion album. Dolly and James are embarking on a virtual book tour in support of the new releases.

“Run, Rose, Run” Virtual Book Tour

Dolly Parton and James Patterson have launched a virtual book tour to celebrate the release of their novel, “Run, Rose, Run.” The tour began streaming live Sunday, March 6, with the exclusive “Run, Rose, Run” Virtual Book Launch Event, sponsored by the American Booksellers Association in support of independent booksellers. Other virtual engagements will be organized through major booksellers, including Books-A-Million, Indigo, Waterstones, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and AARP Book, now through Friday, March 25.Dolly Parton and James Patterson

Wednesday, March 9
BOOKS-A-MILLION VIRTUAL EVENT
2:00 PM PT/5:00 PM ET

INDIGO VIRTUAL EVENT
4:00 PM PT/7:00 PM ET

Thursday, March 10
FANE ONLINE VIRTUAL EVENT (UK)
1:30 PM ET/6:30 PM GMT

Wednesday, March 16
AMAZON LIVE VIRTUAL EVENT
1:30 PM PT/4:30 PM ET

BARNES & NOBLE VIRTUAL EVENT
3:00 PM PT/6:00 PM ET

Friday, March 25
AARP BOOKS VIRTUAL EVENT
3:00 PM PT/6:00 PM ET

Ticket Information for the Virtual Book Tour

Your ticket includes admission to the exclusive event and a hardcover copy of “Run, Rose, Run” ($30 retail price), as well as sales tax, shipping, and handling (if applicable). Visit jamespatterson.com/events for attendance information and to purchase tickets.

“Run, Rose, Run” – The Album

Dolly’s latest album, “Run, Rose, Run,” is available now on all digital streaming platforms and as a digital download, as well as on CD, standard vinyl and some special vinyl color variants. The album serves as a companion to the original novel, “Run, Rose, Run,” which Dolly co-authored with James Patterson.

Official “Run, Rose, Run” Merchandise

Exclusive “Run, Rose, Run” merchandise, created for Dolly’s latest album and book release, is available now. Each item complements the story and music as told by Dolly Parton. Get Dolly’s new album “Run, Rose, Run” and order the novel today.

Team DollyNow Available: Dolly Parton Releases “Run, Rose, Run” Novel With Bestselling Author James Patterson

Dolly Parton Releases New Album “Run, Rose, Run” and Lyric Video for “Woman Up (And Take It Like A Man)”

Published March 4, 2022 / Last Updated February 9, 2023
Team Dolly is a collaboration of writers, editors, and publishers assembled by Dolly Parton Productions. Each member is dedicated to accurately publishing the latest news and historical archives of the living legend that is Dolly Rebecca Parton.

Managing Editor - Jacob Timmons
Creative Director - Sarah Chapman
Team Dolly

Original Novel “Run, Rose, Run” Co-Authored By Dolly Parton and James Patterson Available March 7th

Dolly Parton has released her latest album, “Run, Rose, Run,” available now on all digital streaming platforms and as a digital download, as well as on CD, standard vinyl and some special vinyl color variants. The album serves as a companion to the original novel, “Run, Rose, Run,” co-authored by James Patterson and Parton, set for release on March 7th.

Woman Up (And Take It Like A Man)

Alongside the album, Dolly has also released the third single and lyric video for “Woman Up (And Take It Like A Man)” – a fiery, inspirational track about not giving up and taking your place at the table when others doubt you.

“I just think this song really suits both of the female characters in the book,” Dolly says. “If you’re going to be in this business you’ve got to toughen up! You gotta ‘woman up and take it like a man’ – be as good as or better than all these men…managers, record label folks and these other characters that give them a hard time in the story. So, this was one song that I think is kind of like another “9 to 5,” I had all female voices on that one and I think it came out really good!”

Academy of Country Music Awards

Dolly will be hosting the 57th Academy of Country Music Awards from Las Vegas on March 7th via Amazon Prime. Additionally, Dolly and the music from “Run, Rose, Run” will be featured on Sonos Radio, premiering on March 10th on her own Songteller Radio Station, as the Music Choice March Artist of the Month and on Pandora Artist Takeover of Today’s Country: Dolly creates a Pop-Up featuring new music and her biggest hits.

Shop “Run, Rose, Run” Merchandise

Exclusive “Run, Rose, Run” merchandise, created for Dolly’s latest album and book release, is available now. Each item complements the story and music as told by Dolly Parton. Get Dolly’s new album “Run, Rose, Run” now and preorder the novel, available March 7.

Team DollyDolly Parton Releases New Album “Run, Rose, Run” and Lyric Video for “Woman Up (And Take It Like A Man)”

“Run, Rose, Run,” An Insightful Interview with World-Renowned Best-Selling Author, James Patterson

Published February 11, 2022 / Last Updated February 9, 2023
Team Dolly is a collaboration of writers, editors, and publishers assembled by Dolly Parton Productions. Each member is dedicated to accurately publishing the latest news and historical archives of the living legend that is Dolly Rebecca Parton.

Managing Editor - Jacob Timmons
Creative Director - Sarah Chapman
Team Dolly

James Patterson gives us a glimpse into collaborating with Dolly Parton on their forthcoming novel, “Run, Rose, Run.”

James Patterson is known around the world as one of the greatest authors of all time. With over 100 books on the New York Times Best Sellers list, it’s no wonder Dolly Parton was thrilled to receive a personal invitation from James to co-author a novel with him.

These two creative geniuses have combined their talents to bring us something incredibly special. In this interview, James tells us about the writing process and shares what it was like to collaborate with the world’s most beloved entertainment icon on “Run, Rose, Run.”

 

You have written well over 100 New York Times bestsellers, and you’re widely known as one of the most diverse writers of our time. What was your inspiration for this particular book?

I’d always admired what Dolly does to get people reading–adults and kids. Dolly’s also a gifted storyteller. Every one of her songs is a story. I thought we’d make a good team. As it turned out–I was right. I’m enjoying being on Team Dolly.

Did you develop the plot or the characters first?

I don’t think you can separate the plot and the characters. Dolly and I developed both in layers, or drafts. The plot kept getting thicker, and the characters kept getting more complex and interesting. I think readers are going to really enjoy our book.

Who is your favorite character in Run, Rose, Run?

It would have to be a tie between Ruthanna and AnnieLee. Ethan wouldn’t be far behind. One of my rules is that you have to be incredibly involved with your heroes–and really despise the villains.

What was it like to collaborate with one of the world’s most beloved superstars, and what was your favorite part about the process?

My joke about Dolly and everyone who works with her is that they’re incredibly nice, incredibly smart and relentless. Man, do I love that. My grandmother used to say, ‘Hungry dogs run faster.’ I think Dolly and I are hungry, in a good way.

What is your typical process for co-authoring a book?

I don’t have a “typical” process for co-authoring, but it usually starts with a long outline, which goes through several drafts. One of my jokes is that the other author and I alternate words. The one thing that always holds true is that the co-authors and I work really hard to make the best book we can. I know that’s what happened with “Run, Rose, Run.”

You and Dolly share a passion for literacy. You are known for campaigning to make books and reading a national priority. When was this passion ignited in you, and how has it affected your approach to writing?

Whenever I appear at a school or conference for librarians or teachers, I’ll say ‘I’m here to save lives.’ That’s what happens when you get kids reading at grade level. It gives them a chance to finish high school and go to college, if that’s appropriate, and get a better job when they get older. My mom was a teacher, and she always told the kids at school that she was there to help them look through windows, not look in mirrors.

Has music been an integral part of your life?

Yes, indeed. I like country, but I’m a rock n’ roll junkie. I was actually at Woodstock–and I was an usher for nearly two years at the Fillmore East. When I was at Vanderbilt, I also spent a few evenings at the original Grand Ole Opry.

When did you start writing?

I think when I was a year and a half. But you probably mean when did I start writing stories. I think I started composing them in my head when I was four or five. I started writing them down on paper when I was fourteen or fifteen.

Who has been the most influential person in your life with regard to your love of writing?

About a thousand unbelievably talented novelists and non-fiction writers who I’ve read–but in particular, my grandmother. She told me I could do anything I wanted to do–except maybe play basketball in the NBA. Actually, she didn’t say ‘maybe.’

Both you and Dolly are philanthropists. Is there a charity or cause that you are especially passionate about?

I concentrate on charities that help kids become better readers, help bookstores to survive and help students who want to be teachers get through school without too much debt.

 

Now available for pre-order, the “Run, Rose, Run” novel will be published simultaneously in hardcover, ebook and audiobook and will release on March 7. The album, also available for pre-order, is slated for a March 4 release.

Team Dolly“Run, Rose, Run,” An Insightful Interview with World-Renowned Best-Selling Author, James Patterson