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The country music star has known Cyrus since she was a baby and told the Fox News Channel that the teenager is like an "honorary goddaughter" to her.
"A lot of people don't realise how talented she is musically. She plays the guitar and writes great songs. She's a great entertainer and, as you know from Hannah Montana, her comedic timing is just unbelievable," Parton said.
"She has everything it takes and she's just trying to make the transition now. I hate it when people criticise and condemn her... She's trying to grow up. She's 17 years old and we all remember back when we were younger. She's feeling herself through and she'll land in the right place."
The singer - who plays Cyrus's aunt on Hannah Montana - continued: "I really know she does have everything it takes. She's just trying to find her way and she will... I have all the faith in her and you will never get me to say anything bad about her."
Parton is currently preparing for the 25th anniversary celebrations for Dollywood, which will include performances from Cyrus, her father Billy Ray and Kenny Rogers.
Dolly Celebrates 25 Years Of Dollywood airs July 3 at 8pm ET/PT on Hallmark Channel.
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