The singer accuses artists “in positions of power” for creating “a code of silence” around the issue.

Some high-profile country singers “have been in abusive relationships”, she claims, and yet they don’t speak out because “they don’t want to mess with their fan base”.

In an impassioned plea, the singer says: “This is the first time I’ve really publicly called my sister out. But it’s high time that some of these older women speak up and speak out.

“They’ve all gone through all kinds of abuse in this industry so: speak up!”

Appearing at the launch of 9 To 5 The Musical last week, Dolly Parton said she hoped the show, which follows an office worker as she takes revenge on her sexist boss, would empower women in a #MeToo era.

In separate interviews, the Jolene star distanced herself from the label of “feminist”, saying: “If being a feminist means I’m all for women, yes. But I don’t feel I have to march, hold up a sign or label myself.”

Stella and Dolly Parton stand three years apart in a family of 12 siblings. In an interview last year, Stella Parton - who appeared in the 2018 edition of Celebrity Masterchef - says she and Dolly have “always been close.”

Images: Getty

Dolly Parton's sister urges singer to speak out over #MeToo abuse