Amazon CEO and second-richest person in the world Jeff Bezos gave $100 million to Dolly Parton to donate to a charity of her choice after she won the Courage and Civility Award. The award was introduced by Bezos and his partner Lauren Sanchez in 2021, shortly after Bezos returned from space on the Blue Origin’s New Shepard spacecraft.

In 2021, celebrity chef José Andrés and Emmy award winner political commentator Van Jones received the coveted award.

Also read: Dolly Parton on Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction: ‘I’m a rockstar now!’

“We’ve just announced a new Courage and Civility award recipient — @DollyParton, who leads with her heart, and will put this $100 million award to great use helping so many people. She joins prior awardees, @VanJones68 and @Chefjoseandres. Congrats, Dolly!” Bezos said in a tweet shortly after Parton was declared the winner.

According to Lauren Sanchez, the award is a recognition for “leaders who aim high, find solutions, and who always do it with civility”. Bezos, while awarding Parton, said that the singer “embodies these ideals” and is a person who “gives with her heart.”

“What she’s done for kids and literacy, and so many other things, is just incredible,” he added. 

Also read: Dolly Parton to Eminem: Complete list of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2022 inductees

“When people are in a position to help, you should help,” Parton said while receiving the award. “I know that I’ve always said I try to put my money where my heart is and I think you do the same thing. I will do my best to do good things with this money. Thank you Jeff,” she added. 

Parton was earlier inducted into he Rock and Roll hall of Fame along with Eminem, Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, Duran Duran, Eurythmics, Lionel Richie, and Carly Simon, among others. 

“I feel honoured that everyone who voted for me did so. And I appreciate the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame people for sticking by me,” Parton had said in an interview after the induction.