Parton turns down judge role on 'Idol'

Dolly Parton has turned down an invitation to appear on American Idol as one of the judges, because she thinks she would be too nice to the contestants.

The music legend was asked to join the existing judges on the reality TV singing contest, but she doesn't think she has it in her to be mean and tell hopeful acts that they "suck".

Parton has however agreed to film an episode where the competitors will perform songs as a tribute to her music, but she will only help the contestants backstage.

She said: "I won't be a judge. I couldn't do that. I can't tell people they aren't doing a good job even if they ask me.

"To tell someone if they're good or bad, or if they suck isn't me."