NASHVILLE, TN — In a heartbreaking and unexpected turn of events, country-rock artist Shooter Jennings took to social media just 50 minutes ago to share deeply emotional news regarding his beloved mother, country music legend Jessi Colter.

In a somber and heartfelt post on Instagram, Shooter revealed that Jessi Colter, 80, had suddenly collapsed earlier today at her Nashville home due to what doctors are currently describing as severe exhaustion and stress-related complications. The post, accompanied by a recent photo of the two together backstage at her last performance, quickly went viral, prompting an outpouring of concern from fans and fellow musicians alike.

“My heart is heavy tonight,” Shooter wrote. “Mom collapsed earlier today. She’s resting now, but it’s serious. We’re by her side, and she’s getting the best care possible. Please keep her in your prayers. She’s the strongest woman I know, but even the strongest can be brought low.”

According to family sources close to the situation, Jessi had been working tirelessly in recent weeks—juggling rehearsals, studio sessions for an upcoming gospel-inspired project, and even a few surprise live appearances—leading many to believe the sudden collapse may have been the result of prolonged overexertion. While she has not been formally hospitalized as of this hour, paramedics were reportedly dispatched to her home, and she is now under close observation at a private care facility in Nashville.

Fans in Shock, Tributes Pour In

As news broke, tributes and messages of support flooded social media, with hashtags like #PrayForJessi and #JessiColter trending nationwide within the hour.

Country superstar Miranda Lambert posted,

“Jessi is a warrior and a queen. Sending all my love to her and Shooter tonight. We’re all pulling for you, Jessi.”

Meanwhile, Willie Nelson’s team shared a brief message via X (formerly Twitter):

“She’s a part of the soul of country music. Stay strong, Jessi. We’re all with you.”

The Grand Ole Opry released a statement expressing their deep concern:

“Jessi Colter has graced our stage and touched our hearts for decades. Tonight, our prayers go out to her and her family during this difficult time.”

A Lifetime of Strength

Born Mirriam Johnson in Arizona, Jessi Colter rose to fame in the 1970s as one of the few prominent women in the outlaw country movement, alongside her late husband Waylon Jennings. Her haunting ballad “I’m Not Lisa” remains one of the most recognizable heartbreak anthems of the genre. At 80, Jessi had shown no signs of slowing down—appearing on tribute albums, recording new material, and even performing select live shows as recently as this past spring.

In recent interviews, she spoke candidly about the challenges of aging in the public eye, saying,

“My voice still has stories to tell. I’ll sing until the Lord calls me home.”

Tonight, her fans around the world are clinging to those words—hoping, praying, and believing that this is not that time.

Awaiting More Updates

Shooter Jennings has promised to keep fans updated, but asked for privacy as the family focuses on Jessi’s recovery.

“She’s resting. She’s in good hands. We’re holding onto faith,” he concluded in his post.

As the music world holds its collective breath, one truth remains clear: Jessi Colter is more than a singer—she’s a symbol of resilience, of grace, of heart.

Let’s hope this moment is just a pause in a long and beautiful song still being written.