Dolly Parton endorses marriage equality

Chicago, IL - Legendary actress-singer Dolly Parton has endorsed marriage equality.

The 68-year-old Parton told UK-based tabloid Daily Mail that she believes "everyone should be with who they love."

"I don't want to be controversial or stir up a bunch of trouble but people are going to love who they are going to love," Parton said.

"I think gay couples should be allowed to marry. They should suffer just like us heterosexuals. Ha ha ha!"

Parton's comments come roughly a month after a gay marriage law approved by lawmakers took effect in Britain.

The country singer added that she didn't know any gay people growing up.

"I do have a lot of gays in my family now, but some will never come out," she said.

In 2010, Parton told Larry King that she loves her gay fans.