Reba McEntire will be joined on her sitcom by another country-music star later this season when Dolly Parton guest-stars on an episode.

The episode, which tapes in mid-February, will be a rare sitcom appearance for Parton; her last such guest spot was on an episode of CBS's short-lived "Bette" in October 2000. She's also appeared on "Designing Women" and starred in a couple of pilots that never made it to the air.

In the "Reba" episode, which doesn't have an airdate yet, she'll be playing a successful real-estate broker who crosses paths with Reba, who's entering the business herself. The part was crafted with Parton in mind.

"I have respected Dolly, both professionally and personally, for my entire career," McEntire says. "Having her on our show and playing opposite her will be the thrill of a lifetime."

Parton earned an Oscar nomination in 1981 for her song "Nine to Five" from the movie of the same title, in which she also starred. She's won seven Grammys in her career, most recently in 2001 for best female country vocal performance.

Her other acting credits include "Steel Magnolias" and "Straight Talk."