DOLLY RIDES TO RESCUE IN KELLY CRISIS

Offers lessons in how to handle pitfalls of fame

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KINDHEARTED country legend Dolly Parton has always had a soft spot for Kelly Clarkson, so she's reaching out to help her pal as the singer continues to struggle with the pressures of fame, sources say.

"Kelly's in a bad place right now. Everyone can see that, and Dolly is very worried for her and trying to get to the bottom of what's wrong," an insider shares.

"She's heard enough from mutual friends about how Kelly's acting erratic and weepy, and it's upsetting her. Dolly's always known Kelly to be steady as she goes."