Stars Slam 'NYPD Blue' Star Ricky Schroder's Transphobic, Anti-Vaccine Tribute to Dolly Parton: 'Oh Shut Up!'

Ricky Schroder faced backlash after his tribute to Dolly Parton drew criticism for its references to transphobic and anti-vaccine sentiments.

Among those reacting to the post was Boy George, who bluntly responded, "Oh shut up!"

The NYPD Blue actor shared a photo of himself with Parton on Wednesday, August 26, on Instagram following news of the country music icon’s death.

Schroder wrote in the caption, "I didnt agree with her advocating for Transgender & Covid Vaccine support…but Loved her anyway."

While reflecting on their time working together, the actor also referenced his disagreement with some of Parton’s public views.

Broadcaster Katie Couric shared her reaction directly on Threads, keeping her response brief.

"Ick," she wrote.

Rock band Garbage also responded through its official account, taking a much harsher approach.

"F--- off Ricky Schroeder," they said.

Another Threads user, Steven Havre, criticized Schroder for bringing up his disagreements with Parton while reflecting on her death.

"Ricky, she just died. You could have honored her without using her death to remind everyone that you disapproved of her supporting trans people and vaccines," Havre said.

"What a s----, self-centered tribute," he added.

Schroder’s social media presence has also featured conservative-focused posts.

One recent Instagram post included a political cartoon depicting left-leaning figures and used the phrase "demonic socialists of America," while a coffee cup in the image displayed the words "G-- DUST."

Schroder, 56, appeared alongside Parton in two television movies centered on her life and family.

He portrayed her father in Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors in 2015 and returned for the 2016 sequel, Dolly Parton’s Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love.

The actor ended his message by looking back on the role he played in Parton’s story.

"Thank you for choosing me Dolly to be your Movie Daddy," he concluded.

The criticism surrounding Schroder’s post also brought renewed attention to causes Parton supported throughout her career.

Parton was widely recognized for speaking in favor of LGBTQ equality and for showing support for the community. Her advocacy extended to COVID-19 vaccine efforts, including a $1 million donation to research that contributed to the development of a vaccine during the pandemic.

Following her death, GLAAD CEO Sarah Kate Ellis praised Parton’s approach, calling her "the queen of inclusivity and philanthropy" while highlighting her support for LGBTQ people.