Some of Elvis Presley’s closest friends were members of his entourage. They traveled with him, served as bodyguards, and assisted him in times of need. In return, Elvis paid them and showered them with lavish gifts. While one of his longtime friends said this was a benefit of knowing Elvis, it was also something of a curse.
Elvis’ friend said the singer was both a blessing and a curse to know
Elvis watched a good deal of television in his lifetime. One of his favorite programs was a show called The Millionaire.
“Elvis was crazy about a TV show … called The Millionaire,” his friend Joe Esposito said, per the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “Each week an ordinary person with a problem answered a knock at his door to find a messenger in a suit who announced that he was presenting the person...
Elvis’ friend said the singer was both a blessing and a curse to know
Elvis watched a good deal of television in his lifetime. One of his favorite programs was a show called The Millionaire.
“Elvis was crazy about a TV show … called The Millionaire,” his friend Joe Esposito said, per the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “Each week an ordinary person with a problem answered a knock at his door to find a messenger in a suit who announced that he was presenting the person...
- 5/24/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1964, Elvis Presley starred in a film that humiliated him so deeply that he didn’t want to shoot it. Elvis was, for the most part, a good sport about the film Kissin’ Cousins. Director Gene Nelson enjoyed working with him, even as the shooting schedule grew hectic. Still, his co-star recalled Elvis’ abject embarrassment on set.
Elvis felt humiliated on the set of one film
In 1964, Elvis played the role of cousins in the film Kissin’ Cousins. He had a major problem with the film, as it made him wear a blond wig he hated. He also felt the script and storyline were ridiculous and disliked the rapid filming schedule. Nelson said Elvis was an easygoing presence on set. His co-star, Yvonne Craig knew he didn’t want to be there, though.
Elvis Presley | Gab Archive/Redferns
According to the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick,...
Elvis felt humiliated on the set of one film
In 1964, Elvis played the role of cousins in the film Kissin’ Cousins. He had a major problem with the film, as it made him wear a blond wig he hated. He also felt the script and storyline were ridiculous and disliked the rapid filming schedule. Nelson said Elvis was an easygoing presence on set. His co-star, Yvonne Craig knew he didn’t want to be there, though.
Elvis Presley | Gab Archive/Redferns
According to the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick,...
- 5/13/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley kicked off his acting career with a supporting role in 1956’s Love Me Tender. This would be the only film in which Elvis did not receive top billing. For the next 30 films, Elvis was the lead and main attraction, cementing his status as a movie star on top of his music career. Despite the success, Elvis was not happy. He said he realized he had to stop making movies because it was making him sick.
Elvis Presley said his acting career stressed him out to the point of illness
When Elvis began to work as an actor, it was just another step that his manager felt he should take on his rise to success.
“It was work,” he said, per the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “It was a job. I had to be there at a certain time in the morning...
Elvis Presley said his acting career stressed him out to the point of illness
When Elvis began to work as an actor, it was just another step that his manager felt he should take on his rise to success.
“It was work,” he said, per the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “It was a job. I had to be there at a certain time in the morning...
- 5/2/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley leveraged his fame to score himself many dates. He was charming and generous with his girlfriends, and they were excited to be a part of his world of wealth and celebrity. Still, Elvis wasn’t always an easy partner. He had a number of expectations for his dates, and he grew frustrated if they didn’t adhere to them. Once, he gave his date the silent treatment because she dared to wear pants around him.
Elvis did not like it when his date wore pants
After returning to the United States from Germany, Elvis landed himself in hot water with his girlfriend, Anita Wood. She found letters from a young Priscilla Beaulieu, whom Elvis had met while in the army. Elvis denied he’d been unfaithful, which was not true. Not only had he pursued a relationship with Priscilla, but he was dating other people as well. One of them was Sandy Ferra,...
Elvis did not like it when his date wore pants
After returning to the United States from Germany, Elvis landed himself in hot water with his girlfriend, Anita Wood. She found letters from a young Priscilla Beaulieu, whom Elvis had met while in the army. Elvis denied he’d been unfaithful, which was not true. Not only had he pursued a relationship with Priscilla, but he was dating other people as well. One of them was Sandy Ferra,...
- 4/29/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley’s co-star in the film Wild in the Country, Millie Perkins, enjoyed her time working with the singer. She found him personable, kind, and humble. She also found certain elements of his life to be absurd. Perkins shared why she viewed Elvis as a victim of his own life.
Elvis’ co-star believed the singer was a victim of his life
In 1961, Elvis starred in the musical drama Wild in the Country. Perkins, who also starred in the film, believed she was one of the few people who didn’t look down on Elvis as they worked.
“I think that everybody making the movie thought, ‘We’re classier than all those other Elvis Presley movies. We’re so much better,’” she said in the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “Everyone was going around patting themselves on the back for being artists; they were...
Elvis’ co-star believed the singer was a victim of his life
In 1961, Elvis starred in the musical drama Wild in the Country. Perkins, who also starred in the film, believed she was one of the few people who didn’t look down on Elvis as they worked.
“I think that everybody making the movie thought, ‘We’re classier than all those other Elvis Presley movies. We’re so much better,’” she said in the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “Everyone was going around patting themselves on the back for being artists; they were...
- 4/27/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1966, Elvis Presley’s manager, Colonel Tom Parker, decided he needed to exercise stronger control over his celebrity client. Elvis’ drug use had ramped up, something everyone in his life was aware of, and he fell and hurt himself while under the influence. Parker warned Elvis that if he didn’t take his advice, he would lose everything.
Elvis’ manager told him he would lose everything after he fell and hit his head
In 1966, Elvis’ friend, Joe Esposito, came to pick the singer up to go to the studio. He found him in the house, woozy, with a sizable lump on his head.
“Into 1966, he started taking downers more heavily, gradually at first,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “But he started heavy into them more and more as he got more and more bored. Around about that time, he fell very badly...
Elvis’ manager told him he would lose everything after he fell and hit his head
In 1966, Elvis’ friend, Joe Esposito, came to pick the singer up to go to the studio. He found him in the house, woozy, with a sizable lump on his head.
“Into 1966, he started taking downers more heavily, gradually at first,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “But he started heavy into them more and more as he got more and more bored. Around about that time, he fell very badly...
- 4/24/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley spent much of his time with his bodyguards and entourage. They followed him on tours, vacations, and even between his houses. When one bodyguard, Sonny West, spent just a month away from Elvis, he was shocked upon his return. Elvis looked so unwell that West gathered other bodyguards to pray for him.
Elvis Presley’s appearance shocked his bodyguard
After Elvis’ divorce from Priscilla Presley, those close to him grew concerned for his well-being. He frequently saw a doctor for problems with his throat, took increasing doses of drugs, and slept very little. All of this began to wear on him.
“I tell you,” Sonny said in the book Elvis, What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy, “I was going nuts looking after him with his actions.”
Elvis and bodyguards | Tom Wargacki/WireImage
In 1974, West was away from Elvis for a month to do work with Colonel Tom Parker. When...
Elvis Presley’s appearance shocked his bodyguard
After Elvis’ divorce from Priscilla Presley, those close to him grew concerned for his well-being. He frequently saw a doctor for problems with his throat, took increasing doses of drugs, and slept very little. All of this began to wear on him.
“I tell you,” Sonny said in the book Elvis, What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy, “I was going nuts looking after him with his actions.”
Elvis and bodyguards | Tom Wargacki/WireImage
In 1974, West was away from Elvis for a month to do work with Colonel Tom Parker. When...
- 4/23/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley made a fortune over the course of his life, but this didn’t stop his father from worrying about his finances. Elvis spent nearly as quickly as he earned, funneling money into hobbies, vehicles, and gifts for his friends and family. He also purchased expensive presents for strangers. He once gave someone a life-changing gift after reading about them in the newspaper.
Elvis Presley bought a stranger an expensive gift
While Elvis had a reputation for giving away cars — Johnny Carson even joked about it in one monologue — his gift-giving did not stop there. Once, while reading the newspaper, Elvis learned about a local woman in need of a wheelchair. He did not hesitate to buy her the nicest, most expensive one he could find.
Elvis in ‘Blue Hawaii’ | Paramount Pictures/Courtesy of Getty Images
“Man, that woman’s face was a picture when he just walked into...
Elvis Presley bought a stranger an expensive gift
While Elvis had a reputation for giving away cars — Johnny Carson even joked about it in one monologue — his gift-giving did not stop there. Once, while reading the newspaper, Elvis learned about a local woman in need of a wheelchair. He did not hesitate to buy her the nicest, most expensive one he could find.
Elvis in ‘Blue Hawaii’ | Paramount Pictures/Courtesy of Getty Images
“Man, that woman’s face was a picture when he just walked into...
- 4/23/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley worked with his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, for years. Parker helped lift Elvis to unprecedented heights, but he also kept the singer on a tight leash. Elvis rarely pushed back against Parker’s leadership, even when he disagreed with his decisions. According to those who knew the singer, he was terrified of Parker.
Elvis bowed to his manager’s power
In 1956, Parker became Elvis’ manager, a position he would hold until the singer’s death in 1977. Most people saw Elvis as confident, boisterous, and good-humored. He rarely showed this side of himself around his manager, though.
Parker controlled Elvis’ career and business interests, but he also had a hand in the singer’s personal life. When he instructed Elvis to stop spending time alone with his barber, Larry Geller, Elvis did not argue.
Colonel Parker and Elvis | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
“Elvis sat and listened like an obedient child,...
Elvis bowed to his manager’s power
In 1956, Parker became Elvis’ manager, a position he would hold until the singer’s death in 1977. Most people saw Elvis as confident, boisterous, and good-humored. He rarely showed this side of himself around his manager, though.
Parker controlled Elvis’ career and business interests, but he also had a hand in the singer’s personal life. When he instructed Elvis to stop spending time alone with his barber, Larry Geller, Elvis did not argue.
Colonel Parker and Elvis | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
“Elvis sat and listened like an obedient child,...
- 4/22/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley had enough star power that he was able to meet with high-ranking politicians with very little scheduling in advance. He appeared at the White House to meet Richard Nixon and he had his sights set on gifting Spiro Agnew a gun. Not long afterward, Elvis wanted nothing to do with Agnew.
Elvis turned on a politician he once met
Elvis liked surrounding himself with authority figures like law enforcement and politicians. Therefore, when he heard Agnew was in Palm Springs, he made it a point to meet with him. He was intent on giving Agnew a gift.
“The Vice-President was staying in Palm Springs when Elvis was there,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Anyway, he set up a meeting with him. We all went to the house he was staying at and Elvis had bought a gold inlaid .357 Magnum revolver.
Elvis turned on a politician he once met
Elvis liked surrounding himself with authority figures like law enforcement and politicians. Therefore, when he heard Agnew was in Palm Springs, he made it a point to meet with him. He was intent on giving Agnew a gift.
“The Vice-President was staying in Palm Springs when Elvis was there,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Anyway, he set up a meeting with him. We all went to the house he was staying at and Elvis had bought a gold inlaid .357 Magnum revolver.
- 4/21/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
After Elvis and Priscilla Presley divorced, he began a relationship with Linda Thompson. These were among the most significant romantic relationships in his life. His bodyguards liked both Priscilla and Thompson, and they got to know them well enough to take note of the differences between them. They said Thompson was more comfortable with Elvis’ lifestyle than Pricilla.
Elvis’ friends said there was a key difference between Priscilla Presley and Linda Thomspon
Priscilla met Elvis when she was 14 years old and entered into an over-ten-year relationship with him. She moved to Graceland in the early 1960s and quickly began to feel lonely and confined. This feeling grew more intense over the years. Elvis was away from her for weeks at a time and, when he was home, he kept nocturnal hours and liked to stay in the house. She began to feel that she could never grow as a person...
Elvis’ friends said there was a key difference between Priscilla Presley and Linda Thomspon
Priscilla met Elvis when she was 14 years old and entered into an over-ten-year relationship with him. She moved to Graceland in the early 1960s and quickly began to feel lonely and confined. This feeling grew more intense over the years. Elvis was away from her for weeks at a time and, when he was home, he kept nocturnal hours and liked to stay in the house. She began to feel that she could never grow as a person...
- 4/20/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When Elvis Presley’s career started taking off, he realized his fame and good looks won him points with women. While he didn’t date many people before fame, he had multiple flings after he became a celebrity. Presley’s friend said he relied on a persona that wasn’t all that truthful after his rise to success.
Elvis Presley leaned into a persona to pick up women
In the early 1950s, Elvis was extremely polite with women and followed a strict code of conduct with dating. By the middle of the decade — when Elvis’ music career had taken off — his bodyguard, Red West, doubted his manners were completely genuine.
“But then as Elvis got older it became part of his patter,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “He really developed that professional country-boy act with women. In the later years it was no longer natural,...
Elvis Presley leaned into a persona to pick up women
In the early 1950s, Elvis was extremely polite with women and followed a strict code of conduct with dating. By the middle of the decade — when Elvis’ music career had taken off — his bodyguard, Red West, doubted his manners were completely genuine.
“But then as Elvis got older it became part of his patter,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “He really developed that professional country-boy act with women. In the later years it was no longer natural,...
- 4/19/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the mid-1950s, Elvis Presley learned that his fame gave a huge boost to his dating life. Before this, though, he didn’t have many girlfriends. According to his bodyguard and friend, Red West, Elvis had a set of rigid rules for his romantic life. West described him as every mother’s dream.
Elvis had strict rules for dating
In the early 1950s, Elvis had two serious girlfriends. He would later date around, but West said he never did this before fame.
“Up until he went into the army, he pretty much was only involved with two real girlfriends, both Southern, both charming, and both very pretty,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “One was Dixie Locke and the other girl was a lady named Anita Wood. He never took advantage of who he was.”
Anita Wood and Elvis Presley | Bettmann/Contributor via Getty...
Elvis had strict rules for dating
In the early 1950s, Elvis had two serious girlfriends. He would later date around, but West said he never did this before fame.
“Up until he went into the army, he pretty much was only involved with two real girlfriends, both Southern, both charming, and both very pretty,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “One was Dixie Locke and the other girl was a lady named Anita Wood. He never took advantage of who he was.”
Anita Wood and Elvis Presley | Bettmann/Contributor via Getty...
- 4/16/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley was one of the biggest musicians and actors in the ‘50s and ‘60s. Known as the King of Rock and Roll, the musician was known for his often imitated style and s*xually provocative songs that were revolutionary at the time. He was one of the biggest pop-cultural phenomena in Hollywood and is revered even today. He was portrayed by Austin Butler and Jacob Elordi in two different films in the last two years.
Though he is rumored to have multiple affairs, Presley only married once in his life. The star musician met Priscilla Presley when he was stationed in West Germany during his military service. Presley has been known to have many courtships even after his marriage. His bodyguard during his tours mentioned that he preferred the women he dated not to have one specific quality that would turn him off.
Elvis Presley Preferred Women With One...
Though he is rumored to have multiple affairs, Presley only married once in his life. The star musician met Priscilla Presley when he was stationed in West Germany during his military service. Presley has been known to have many courtships even after his marriage. His bodyguard during his tours mentioned that he preferred the women he dated not to have one specific quality that would turn him off.
Elvis Presley Preferred Women With One...
- 4/14/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
Elvis Presley was only married once, but he had many romantic partners in his lifetime. His entourage sought out women for him after shows, and he often pursued his co-stars. When looking for a romantic partner, Elvis wanted to avoid women with one physical characteristic.
Elvis avoided romantic partners with a specific physical trait
As Elvis’ entourage sought out women to set him up with, they became well acquainted with the singer’s type. He preferred petite, feminine brunettes, much like Priscilla Presley. Elvis’ desire for a smaller woman meant he specifically avoided partners with large feet.
“He likes them about five foot four, five foot five, and there is one thing that really turns him off and that is chicks with big feet,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy.
Elvis Presley | Steve Morley/Redferns
Elvis believed big feet did not fit into...
Elvis avoided romantic partners with a specific physical trait
As Elvis’ entourage sought out women to set him up with, they became well acquainted with the singer’s type. He preferred petite, feminine brunettes, much like Priscilla Presley. Elvis’ desire for a smaller woman meant he specifically avoided partners with large feet.
“He likes them about five foot four, five foot five, and there is one thing that really turns him off and that is chicks with big feet,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy.
Elvis Presley | Steve Morley/Redferns
Elvis believed big feet did not fit into...
- 4/13/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley’s career brought him immense wealth, but he spent money nearly as quickly as he earned it. He racked up expenses for fleeting hobbies and gifted friends, family members, and even strangers lavish presents. Elvis also turned his generosity on his fans. During one concert, he gave away so much expensive jewelry that he embarrassed his jeweler. This didn’t concern him much, though.
Elvis alarmed his jeweler when he gave a large amount of money to an audience
In the 1970s, Elvis thought the crowd at one show was a little too quiet. To win them over — and pitch them into the frenzy at which he liked his audiences to operate — he brought his jeweler onstage. Elvis began reaching into the case and handing out the expensive items inside, much to his jeweler’s horror.
“He started taking pieces of jewelry out of the case and going...
Elvis alarmed his jeweler when he gave a large amount of money to an audience
In the 1970s, Elvis thought the crowd at one show was a little too quiet. To win them over — and pitch them into the frenzy at which he liked his audiences to operate — he brought his jeweler onstage. Elvis began reaching into the case and handing out the expensive items inside, much to his jeweler’s horror.
“He started taking pieces of jewelry out of the case and going...
- 4/12/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley built a fan base that supported him for years. They bought his records, watched his films, and let loose at his concerts. While Elvis loved the way his fans showed their devotion to him, his bodyguards did not. They believed the behavior of the audiences at the singer’s concerts was shocking.
Elvis’ entourage said fans behaved appallingly during concerts
Elvis’ bodyguards were on hand at concerts to make sure the singer was safe during his performances. Ultimately, though, they said they had to watch out for the safety of the audience more than they did Elvis.
“I swear I don’t know how someone hasn’t been killed at some of these shows,” bodyguard Red West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “There have been a lot of people hurt but it’s a miracle somebody hasn’t been killed.”
Elvis Presley | Bettmann...
Elvis’ entourage said fans behaved appallingly during concerts
Elvis’ bodyguards were on hand at concerts to make sure the singer was safe during his performances. Ultimately, though, they said they had to watch out for the safety of the audience more than they did Elvis.
“I swear I don’t know how someone hasn’t been killed at some of these shows,” bodyguard Red West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “There have been a lot of people hurt but it’s a miracle somebody hasn’t been killed.”
Elvis Presley | Bettmann...
- 4/11/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
For much of his career, Elvis Presley felt proud of the creative control he exercised over his music. It frustrated him to no end when executives tried to override his decisions. By the end of his career, though, he could hardly be bothered to get in the studio. A member of his entourage said Elvis hardly cared about making one of his final albums.
Elvis Presley tried to avoid recording music in the 1970s
In the early days of his music career, Elvis was eager to record new albums. He spent long hours in the studio, working excitedly to achieve his creative goals.
“The point is that I know how talented the man can be when he has a challenge,” bodyguard Red West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “In the early days of his recording, he would cut an album in two nights, and that...
Elvis Presley tried to avoid recording music in the 1970s
In the early days of his music career, Elvis was eager to record new albums. He spent long hours in the studio, working excitedly to achieve his creative goals.
“The point is that I know how talented the man can be when he has a challenge,” bodyguard Red West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “In the early days of his recording, he would cut an album in two nights, and that...
- 4/7/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley did not have a normal life in any sense of the word. He rose to unprecedented levels of fame in his twenties and maintained an army of dedicated fans for the entirety of his life. While this sometimes felt uncomfortable for him — he struggled to find any amount of privacy — Elvis thought of himself as greater than most people. His bodyguard said Elvis saw himself as superhuman.
Elvis Presley tried to elevate himself above normal humans
Elvis long claimed an ability to heal with his touch. While his bodyguard, Dave Hebler, thought Elvis genuinely wanted to help people, he thought the singer also wanted to think of himself as special.
“I think he sincerely wanted to heal someone’s pain. But at the same time he was trying to elevate himself above ordinary humans,” Hebler said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “He sort of had this superman complex.
Elvis Presley tried to elevate himself above normal humans
Elvis long claimed an ability to heal with his touch. While his bodyguard, Dave Hebler, thought Elvis genuinely wanted to help people, he thought the singer also wanted to think of himself as special.
“I think he sincerely wanted to heal someone’s pain. But at the same time he was trying to elevate himself above ordinary humans,” Hebler said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “He sort of had this superman complex.
- 4/7/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Mary Tyler Moore once called herself the only one of Elvis Presley’s leading ladies who didn’t sleep with him, but the singer reportedly struck out with more than one co-star. Elvis worked with actor Shelley Fabares on three films and reportedly pursued her across all of them. His bodyguards said it came as a major blow to Elvis’ ego when Fabares continually rejected him.
Elvis pursued a co-star who turned him down
After Elvis left the army in 1960, he began making movies at a relentless pace. While he was in a relationship with Priscilla Presley during this period, he still pursued many of his co-stars.
“It pretty much followed the same pattern,” bodyguard Red West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Priscilla was in Memphis, Elvis dated his leading lady and I, as usual, ended up in the movie getting knocked on my a...
Elvis pursued a co-star who turned him down
After Elvis left the army in 1960, he began making movies at a relentless pace. While he was in a relationship with Priscilla Presley during this period, he still pursued many of his co-stars.
“It pretty much followed the same pattern,” bodyguard Red West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Priscilla was in Memphis, Elvis dated his leading lady and I, as usual, ended up in the movie getting knocked on my a...
- 4/3/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley had a team of employees who were willing to step into the line of fire for him. Elvis received death threats, meaning that his bodyguards had to be constantly alert. He also expected them to settle other, non-safety-related grievances for him. After a handful of dangerous encounters, one bodyguard realized that if Elvis wanted to be an avenger, he should be willing to put himself at risk.
Elvis Presley’s bodyguard thought the singer should fight his own battles
As Elvis grew bored of his career, he began to think of himself as a righteous defender of justice. He’d long been fascinated with law enforcement, even occasionally joining them on drug raids. He sought out a federal narcotics badge, imagining that he would be able to use it to get drugs off the street. Elvis also sent his bodyguards out on errands to avenge people he believed had been wronged.
Elvis Presley’s bodyguard thought the singer should fight his own battles
As Elvis grew bored of his career, he began to think of himself as a righteous defender of justice. He’d long been fascinated with law enforcement, even occasionally joining them on drug raids. He sought out a federal narcotics badge, imagining that he would be able to use it to get drugs off the street. Elvis also sent his bodyguards out on errands to avenge people he believed had been wronged.
- 4/2/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley‘s “(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear” sounds like another 1950s doo-wop song. With its focus on teddy bears, it seems like it should be a children’s song. Despite that, it’s more suggestive than most 1950s hits. Some of the lyrical choices in the song are pretty questionable.
Elvis Presley’s ‘(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear’ isn’t for kids
Plenty of great rock songs are children’s songs, including The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine,” Peter, Paul and Mary’s “Puff, the Magic Dragon,” and basically everything by The Monkees. Elvis’ “(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear” is anything but that. It’s a song where Elvis asks his lover to touch him like she’s touching a teddy bear. How this didn’t upset the censors at the time is beyond me.
Furthermore, Elvis asks his lover to put a chain around his neck and lead him around.
Elvis Presley’s ‘(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear’ isn’t for kids
Plenty of great rock songs are children’s songs, including The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine,” Peter, Paul and Mary’s “Puff, the Magic Dragon,” and basically everything by The Monkees. Elvis’ “(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear” is anything but that. It’s a song where Elvis asks his lover to touch him like she’s touching a teddy bear. How this didn’t upset the censors at the time is beyond me.
Furthermore, Elvis asks his lover to put a chain around his neck and lead him around.
- 4/1/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley surrounded himself with people who were willing to do just about anything for him. This was partly because they loved him, partly because he paid them, and partly because he knew how to exercise power over people. His bodyguard said Elvis knew how to get people to bend to his will.
Elvis Presley could make people feel highly uncomfortable
In the early days of Elvis and Priscilla Presley’s relationship, the singer’s entourage recalled hearing an explosive fight between the couple. After a stretch of screaming and crashing furniture, Elvis left his room and informed bodyguard Sonny West that he was kicking Priscilla out.
“We were about three bedrooms away, but you could hear furniture and things falling all over,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Elvis comes out, and he is extremely calm for someone who has been ranting and raving.
Elvis Presley could make people feel highly uncomfortable
In the early days of Elvis and Priscilla Presley’s relationship, the singer’s entourage recalled hearing an explosive fight between the couple. After a stretch of screaming and crashing furniture, Elvis left his room and informed bodyguard Sonny West that he was kicking Priscilla out.
“We were about three bedrooms away, but you could hear furniture and things falling all over,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Elvis comes out, and he is extremely calm for someone who has been ranting and raving.
- 3/31/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the early days of Elvis and Priscilla Presley’s relationship, she wondered where she stood with him. While he treated her lovingly while they were together, she heard endless rumors about his infidelity. When he left Germany, where they met, Priscilla also went for long stretches without hearing from him. She agonized over the distance between them, but Elvis’ entourage said she had no cause for concern. Though Elvis did not remain faithful, it seemed to them that his mind was always on Priscilla.
Elvis did something he never did while pursuing Priscilla Presley
When Elvis returned to the United States after two years in Germany, he began to speak about Priscilla with his friends. They were concerned about her age — Priscilla was 14 when she met the 24-year-old Elvis — but Elvis paid this little mind.
“He had a girlfriend at the time and I won’t mention her name...
Elvis did something he never did while pursuing Priscilla Presley
When Elvis returned to the United States after two years in Germany, he began to speak about Priscilla with his friends. They were concerned about her age — Priscilla was 14 when she met the 24-year-old Elvis — but Elvis paid this little mind.
“He had a girlfriend at the time and I won’t mention her name...
- 3/31/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley had many talents, and he believed faith healing was among them. The singer, who grew up in the church and remained spiritual for the entirety of his life, thought he could heal ailments and injuries with a brush of his hand. According to his friend, whom Elvis tried to heal multiple times, there was no truth to the singer’s claim.
Elvis believed he was a faith healer
As Elvis’ interest in the metaphysical grew, he became more interested in honing spiritual powers. He was wholly convinced he could heal a person by laying his hands on them. Red West, whom Elvis tried to heal more than once, tried to avoid the singer’s touch.
“Since my days playing football, I’ve always had a bad back, and sometimes at the top of my neck it gives me hell,” he said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy.
Elvis believed he was a faith healer
As Elvis’ interest in the metaphysical grew, he became more interested in honing spiritual powers. He was wholly convinced he could heal a person by laying his hands on them. Red West, whom Elvis tried to heal more than once, tried to avoid the singer’s touch.
“Since my days playing football, I’ve always had a bad back, and sometimes at the top of my neck it gives me hell,” he said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy.
- 3/29/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley met the future Priscilla Presley while in Germany with the army. He quickly fell for her and, when he returned to the United States, he talked endlessly about Priscilla. When he revealed to his bodyguard, Red West, that Priscilla was still in high school, West was horrified.
Elvis shocked his bodyguard when he talked about Priscilla Presley
When Elvis returned to Graceland following his military service, he began talking about wanting a new girlfriend.
“He had a girlfriend at the time and I won’t mention her name because what Elvis said to us all just might embarrass her,” his bodyguard Red West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “But he said, ‘It’s about time I got a girl who was a bit more sharp.’”
Priscilla Presley | Bettmann/Contributor via Getty
West soon realized that Elvis was specifically talking about this because he had met Priscilla.
Elvis shocked his bodyguard when he talked about Priscilla Presley
When Elvis returned to Graceland following his military service, he began talking about wanting a new girlfriend.
“He had a girlfriend at the time and I won’t mention her name because what Elvis said to us all just might embarrass her,” his bodyguard Red West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “But he said, ‘It’s about time I got a girl who was a bit more sharp.’”
Priscilla Presley | Bettmann/Contributor via Getty
West soon realized that Elvis was specifically talking about this because he had met Priscilla.
- 3/26/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Priscilla Presley fell in love with Elvis Presley when she was a teenager. She spent nearly all her teenage years and a good portion of her early adult years with him. Elvis’ wealth and fame meant Priscilla could have nearly everything she wanted. The one thing she wanted out of her relationship was time with her husband, though. Elvis struggled to give this to her.
Priscilla Presley wanted to spend more time with Elvis
In the years Priscilla and Elvis were together, she spent long stretches of time at Graceland or one of their other homes while he traveled for work. After Elvis began performing residencies in Las Vegas, their time apart increased. He did not want her to travel with him, preferring to spend time with the members of his entourage.
“It was like everything he does,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy.
Priscilla Presley wanted to spend more time with Elvis
In the years Priscilla and Elvis were together, she spent long stretches of time at Graceland or one of their other homes while he traveled for work. After Elvis began performing residencies in Las Vegas, their time apart increased. He did not want her to travel with him, preferring to spend time with the members of his entourage.
“It was like everything he does,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy.
- 3/22/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the Summer of 2022, Baz Luhrmann's ‘Elvis‘ premiered in theatres across the country. The biopic, starring Austin Butler as the title figure, reminded past generations of the famed singer and taught younger generations of the Elvis hysteria that took over the world before they were even born. Not only did these younger generations learn of the Elvis Presley legacy, but they also reignited a love for this icon. TikToks of teens visiting Graceland with remixes of “Viva Las Vegas” and “Suspicious Minds” swept the For You Page.
Later that year, writer and director, Sofia Coppola, revealed on her Instagram page that she would soon begin production on ‘Priscilla’. This film would be based on the book Elvis and Me, written by Elvis’ wife, Priscilla. Set pictures soon leaked of Jacob Elordi, of ‘Euphoria’ and ‘Saltburn’ fame, playing the King of Rock and Roll.
Watch The Trailer of the Film and...
Later that year, writer and director, Sofia Coppola, revealed on her Instagram page that she would soon begin production on ‘Priscilla’. This film would be based on the book Elvis and Me, written by Elvis’ wife, Priscilla. Set pictures soon leaked of Jacob Elordi, of ‘Euphoria’ and ‘Saltburn’ fame, playing the King of Rock and Roll.
Watch The Trailer of the Film and...
- 3/21/2024
- by Abigail Johnson
- Hollywood Insider - Substance & Meaningful Entertainment
Elvis Presley began performing residencies in Las Vegas in 1969. These shows saved his sagging career and reignited his love of performing. Before long, though, they began to bore him to tears. This boredom transformed Elvis, twisting his initial excitement into something spiteful and defensive. His friend shared how unpleasant things became while Elvis and his entourage were in Las Vegas.
Elvis’ boredom caused him to lash out while in Las Vegas
By the early 1970s, Elvis had tired of his Vegas shows. He played two shows a day for weeks at a time, leaving him exhausted and irritable. He also played the same show over and over.
“Going in about the third year, there was no challenge,” Elvis’ friend Jerry Schilling said in the book The Colonel by Alanna Nash. “It was the same songs, and the same audience, and we stayed up all night, and slept all day. We...
Elvis’ boredom caused him to lash out while in Las Vegas
By the early 1970s, Elvis had tired of his Vegas shows. He played two shows a day for weeks at a time, leaving him exhausted and irritable. He also played the same show over and over.
“Going in about the third year, there was no challenge,” Elvis’ friend Jerry Schilling said in the book The Colonel by Alanna Nash. “It was the same songs, and the same audience, and we stayed up all night, and slept all day. We...
- 3/19/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Though Elvis Presley did not write his own songs, he exercised creative control over his recording sessions. This sometimes necessitated pushing back against musical arrangements or refusing to record certain songs altogether. During one session, Elvis adamantly refused to record two songs, including one children’s holiday classic.
Elvis Presley was not happy when people tried to get him to record a children’s song
In 1957, Elvis was under a great deal of career and personal pressure. He was a rapidly rising star, but he worried all his success would slip from his grasp as the reality of military service loomed. His mother’s health was also declining. Therefore, his spirits were not high when he arrived at the recording studio in February of that year.
Elvis aimed to record five songs. During a break, however, music publisher Jean Aberbach placed the lyrics to “Here Comes Peter Cottontail” on Elvis’ music stand.
Elvis Presley was not happy when people tried to get him to record a children’s song
In 1957, Elvis was under a great deal of career and personal pressure. He was a rapidly rising star, but he worried all his success would slip from his grasp as the reality of military service loomed. His mother’s health was also declining. Therefore, his spirits were not high when he arrived at the recording studio in February of that year.
Elvis aimed to record five songs. During a break, however, music publisher Jean Aberbach placed the lyrics to “Here Comes Peter Cottontail” on Elvis’ music stand.
- 3/18/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley’s entourage lived lives that brushed fame, but Elvis expected much from them. They worked late hours, traveled often, and had to be willing to protect the singer with their lives. They also said they dealt with Elvis’ constantly changing moods. After Elvis’ bodyguard confronted him about this, Elvis said he tried to make up for his terrible behavior with lavish presents.
Elvis Presley once said he relied on gifts to make up for the way he treated his entourage
In 1975, bodyguard Red West mustered up the courage to have a serious conversation with Elvis. He had known the performer since high school, and they’d grown close over the years. West saw the way years of fame and drug use had changed Elvis and decided to talk to him about it.
Their conversation went well but the next morning, Elvis seemed upset about it.
“I don’t...
Elvis Presley once said he relied on gifts to make up for the way he treated his entourage
In 1975, bodyguard Red West mustered up the courage to have a serious conversation with Elvis. He had known the performer since high school, and they’d grown close over the years. West saw the way years of fame and drug use had changed Elvis and decided to talk to him about it.
Their conversation went well but the next morning, Elvis seemed upset about it.
“I don’t...
- 3/13/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley was a talented performer who captured the hearts of millions of fans with his songs. He had a highly successful career, but he yearned for greater achievements. Elvis grew fascinated with finding his purpose in life, which he believed would lead to spiritual fulfillment. He even believed he held certain metaphysical powers. He once used these to try to take pain away from a woman in labor.
Elvis Presley tried to help a woman in labor
In 1975, Elvis and his girlfriend, Linda Thompson, visited her brother, sister-in-law, and their new baby in the hospital. While they were there, Elvis noticed a woman in labor entering the hospital.
“The next thing I know, Elvis has stopped the emergency charge toward the delivery room and starts talking to the lady,” his bodyguard Dave Hebler said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Here she is in labor, but...
Elvis Presley tried to help a woman in labor
In 1975, Elvis and his girlfriend, Linda Thompson, visited her brother, sister-in-law, and their new baby in the hospital. While they were there, Elvis noticed a woman in labor entering the hospital.
“The next thing I know, Elvis has stopped the emergency charge toward the delivery room and starts talking to the lady,” his bodyguard Dave Hebler said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Here she is in labor, but...
- 3/12/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley’s bodyguards spent much of their lives supporting him. While it was not an easy job — Elvis could be quite demanding — they were happy to dedicate themselves to him. According to some of his bodyguards, Elvis had a seemingly supernatural power over people. While his bodyguards sometimes thought this was ludicrous, they couldn’t deny that Elvis seemed to be blessed.
Elvis Presley’s bodyguards thought there was something special about him
Elvis was a majorly successful singer, a stroke of luck he thought was godsent. This didn’t sound like too outlandish of a belief to his longtime bodyguard Red West.
“He believes there was a master plan by God in singling him out for his fantastic success,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Now, while it does sound a little wacky, I have often given it a lot of thought and...
Elvis Presley’s bodyguards thought there was something special about him
Elvis was a majorly successful singer, a stroke of luck he thought was godsent. This didn’t sound like too outlandish of a belief to his longtime bodyguard Red West.
“He believes there was a master plan by God in singling him out for his fantastic success,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Now, while it does sound a little wacky, I have often given it a lot of thought and...
- 3/10/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley put on a thrilling act that captivated audiences for years. His most ardent fans wouldn’t say a negative word about Elvis, even when the quality of his shows declined through the 1970s. This wasn’t the case when an audience hadn’t paid to see an Elvis show, though. Once, he took the stage during comedian Don Rickles’ act. His chosen method of entertaining the audience was uncomfortable and embarrassing.
Elvis bored Don Rickles and his audience at a show in Las Vegas
While Elvis’ audiences attended his shows to hear him sing, he often treated them to other forms of entertainment, such as karate demonstrations or readings from his favorite books. Once, Elvis did this to the audience at someone else’s show.
Elvis was watching Don Rickles perform his comedy act in Las Vegas. Rickles invited Elvis onstage, and the singer was only too happy to oblige.
Elvis bored Don Rickles and his audience at a show in Las Vegas
While Elvis’ audiences attended his shows to hear him sing, he often treated them to other forms of entertainment, such as karate demonstrations or readings from his favorite books. Once, Elvis did this to the audience at someone else’s show.
Elvis was watching Don Rickles perform his comedy act in Las Vegas. Rickles invited Elvis onstage, and the singer was only too happy to oblige.
- 3/6/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1958, Elvis Presley’s mother, Gladys Presley, died of a heart attack. Elvis and Gladys shared a uniquely close relationship, and her death came as a terrible blow to the young singer. According to those who knew him, Gladys’ death seemed to fundamentally change Elvis as a person. His bodyguard Red West believed Elvis’ life may have taken a completely different direction if Gladys hadn’t died.
Elvis Presley’s life changed after his mother’s death
In the summer of 1958, Gladys Presley’s health took a downturn. Doctors discovered she had hepatitis and, after a hospital stay, she died. This came as a horrible shock to Elvis. He and Gladys had been extremely close in her lifetime, with both of them even believing they shared a psychic connection.
Gladys, Elvis, and Vernon Presley | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
In the years after Gladys’ death, Elvis changed greatly. While this...
Elvis Presley’s life changed after his mother’s death
In the summer of 1958, Gladys Presley’s health took a downturn. Doctors discovered she had hepatitis and, after a hospital stay, she died. This came as a horrible shock to Elvis. He and Gladys had been extremely close in her lifetime, with both of them even believing they shared a psychic connection.
Gladys, Elvis, and Vernon Presley | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
In the years after Gladys’ death, Elvis changed greatly. While this...
- 3/5/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley had an entourage of employees who did everything they could for him. They traveled with him and rose from the middle of sleep to rush to his side. According to Elvis’ longtime bodyguard Red West, they did all of this for very little pay. West said that Elvis gave his entourage lavish gifts, but he didn’t want them to have big salaries. When they didn’t have much money, they were more dependent on him.
Elvis’ bodyguard had a theory about why he didn’t pay his employees much
By 1956, Elvis’ career was blowing up. His dream of being a professional singer was now firmly a reality, and money had begun to roll in. His entourage saw very little of this money, though.
“There were plenty of deals going down at the time and there was big money coming in,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened?...
Elvis’ bodyguard had a theory about why he didn’t pay his employees much
By 1956, Elvis’ career was blowing up. His dream of being a professional singer was now firmly a reality, and money had begun to roll in. His entourage saw very little of this money, though.
“There were plenty of deals going down at the time and there was big money coming in,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened?...
- 3/5/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley‘s girlfriend revealed the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll had some interesting thoughts about this life and the next. She even said that Elvis’ spiritual beliefs influenced how he dressed. Priscilla Presley shared some similar memories in a famous book.
Elvis Presley’s girlfriend said he believed in Jesus and a Hindu saint
Linda Thompson was Elvis’s girlfriend from 1972 to 1976. She was a beauty pageant contestant and a songwriter, penning tunes for Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, and the Backstreet Boys. While the media has a history of ignoring her, she’s an important part of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s life story.
In her 2016 book A Little Thing Called Life, Thompson had a lot to say about Elvis’s spiritual beliefs and practices. “I think at the core of his being, and at the core of his belief, Elvis was a Christian, and...
Elvis Presley’s girlfriend said he believed in Jesus and a Hindu saint
Linda Thompson was Elvis’s girlfriend from 1972 to 1976. She was a beauty pageant contestant and a songwriter, penning tunes for Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, and the Backstreet Boys. While the media has a history of ignoring her, she’s an important part of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s life story.
In her 2016 book A Little Thing Called Life, Thompson had a lot to say about Elvis’s spiritual beliefs and practices. “I think at the core of his being, and at the core of his belief, Elvis was a Christian, and...
- 3/4/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley and his mother, Gladys, had a strikingly close relationship. Even Priscilla Presley, Elvis’ only wife, believed Gladys was the true love of his life. Gladys was extremely protective of Elvis and bristled against the criticisms he faced early in his career. Here’s what she said to people who suggested Elvis’ act was vulgar.
Elvis’ mother bristled against criticism of her son
Elvis was his parents’ sole child, and his mother was quite protective of him. He never spent a night away from home until he was an adult, and both mother and son believed they shared a psychic connection.
According to Priscilla Presley, Gladys protected Elvis against all forms of criticism.
“But from the beginning Elvis had insisted: ‘I just want to read positive reviews. I don’t want to hear any negativity.’ As a teenager he’d been shielded by Gladys from criticism,” Priscilla wrote in her book Elvis and Me.
Elvis’ mother bristled against criticism of her son
Elvis was his parents’ sole child, and his mother was quite protective of him. He never spent a night away from home until he was an adult, and both mother and son believed they shared a psychic connection.
According to Priscilla Presley, Gladys protected Elvis against all forms of criticism.
“But from the beginning Elvis had insisted: ‘I just want to read positive reviews. I don’t want to hear any negativity.’ As a teenager he’d been shielded by Gladys from criticism,” Priscilla wrote in her book Elvis and Me.
- 3/3/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley‘s “Burning Love” didn’t seem to offend people in the 1970s. It should have raised eyebrows in religious circles. Despite this, the popular perception of the “Hound Dog” singer probably made it seem more innocuous.
Elvis Presley’s ‘Burning Love’ is a little hellish
Mixing sexuality with religion is not new. The Romans worshipped lust deities, such as Venus and her son, Cupid. However, Christianity is traditionally averse to combining the erotic with the religious. Since the United States is a majority Christian nation, combining its iconography with sex can be inflammatory.
For example, The Da Vinci Code and its film adaptation were condemned by numerous Christians for portraying Jesus Christ as a married man. Madonna’s video for “Like a Prayer” shocked the world by depicting the Queen of Pop getting intimate with a saint. Lil Nas X raised eyebrows for playing a sexualized Christ figure...
Elvis Presley’s ‘Burning Love’ is a little hellish
Mixing sexuality with religion is not new. The Romans worshipped lust deities, such as Venus and her son, Cupid. However, Christianity is traditionally averse to combining the erotic with the religious. Since the United States is a majority Christian nation, combining its iconography with sex can be inflammatory.
For example, The Da Vinci Code and its film adaptation were condemned by numerous Christians for portraying Jesus Christ as a married man. Madonna’s video for “Like a Prayer” shocked the world by depicting the Queen of Pop getting intimate with a saint. Lil Nas X raised eyebrows for playing a sexualized Christ figure...
- 3/2/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Sofia Coppola's Priscilla is now showing exclusively on Mubi in many countries.Priscilla.Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla (2023) is deceptively soft to the touch. In adapting Priscilla Presley’s 1985 Elvis and Me memoir, the filmmaker brings an astonishing life story to the big screen, but also all of the beautiful, enviable objects that line the cage of celebrity. From luxurious Cadillacs to a lush array of sparkly designer dresses, accessorized with equally shiny handguns, these markers of luxury hum with palpable allure. At the same time, a sense of foreboding looms large. The opening shot lingers on the perfectly manicured feet of Cailee Spaeny’s Priscilla as they gingerly step across a shaggy, coral-pink rug. The seductive, tactile tableau conjures pleasure and comfort, yet it also foreshadows how Priscilla will sink further and further into a gilded sepulcher throughout her turbulent relationship with Elvis, embodied here by Jacob Elordi. Celebrated...
- 2/29/2024
- MUBI
While Elvis Presley was primarily a singer, he starred in many films over the course of his career. At first, this came as a thrill to him. He showed promise as an actor and it helped diversify his career. As time went by, though, Elvis grew increasingly exhausted by his film roles. Eventually, he reached a point where he felt disgusted when he watched himself on screen.
Elvis grew tired of watching himself in films
Elvis starred in his debut film, Love Me Tender, in 1956. His film career advanced quickly from here; Love Me Tender was the only film on which Elvis did not receive top billing.
While movies brought him greater exposure — and large paychecks — Elvis began losing interest in them. The quality of the films he starred in declined and he began to resent these projects. Eventually, he could hardly stand to watch himself on screen.
“He would...
Elvis grew tired of watching himself in films
Elvis starred in his debut film, Love Me Tender, in 1956. His film career advanced quickly from here; Love Me Tender was the only film on which Elvis did not receive top billing.
While movies brought him greater exposure — and large paychecks — Elvis began losing interest in them. The quality of the films he starred in declined and he began to resent these projects. Eventually, he could hardly stand to watch himself on screen.
“He would...
- 2/29/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley began to act in films in 1956 and would go on to fall for a significant number of his co-stars. He reportedly claimed that he slept with all his leading ladies but one. He struck out with his first co-star, though. While Elvis adored her, she wanted nothing romantic to do with him.
Elvis fell for a co-star on the set of his first movie
In 1956, Elvis made his film debut in Love Me Tender. He acted alongside Debra Paget, who transfixed Elvis. His bodyguard, Sonny West, even believed that Elvis tried to model Priscilla Presley after Paget.
“If you look at her in those earlier pictures, you will see she had a decided likeness to Priscilla Presley, whom he was soon to meet,” Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “She had black hair. When Elvis first met Priscilla he got her to dye her hair black.
Elvis fell for a co-star on the set of his first movie
In 1956, Elvis made his film debut in Love Me Tender. He acted alongside Debra Paget, who transfixed Elvis. His bodyguard, Sonny West, even believed that Elvis tried to model Priscilla Presley after Paget.
“If you look at her in those earlier pictures, you will see she had a decided likeness to Priscilla Presley, whom he was soon to meet,” Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “She had black hair. When Elvis first met Priscilla he got her to dye her hair black.
- 2/27/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
While Elvis might have left the building, Priscilla has just arrived. On Friday, Feb. 23, “Priscilla,” the acclaimed film from Sofia Coppola, is available to stream on Max. While dozens of shows, movies, and documentaries have looked at the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s life, precious few have done so through the eyes of his wife. The film stars Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi as Priscilla and Elvis and has been nominated for multiple awards, including at the Golden Globes. You can watch with a 7-Day Free Trial of Max.
How to Watch 'Priscilla' When: Friday, February 23, 2024 Where: Max Stream: Watch with a 7-Day Free Trial of Max. 7-Day Free Trial$9.99+ / month Max via amazon.com About 'Priscilla'
Based on the book “Elvis and Me” by Priscilla Presley with Sandra Harmon, Sofia Coppola’s “Priscilla” is set to join Baz Luhrmann’s “Elvis” on Max on Friday,...
How to Watch 'Priscilla' When: Friday, February 23, 2024 Where: Max Stream: Watch with a 7-Day Free Trial of Max. 7-Day Free Trial$9.99+ / month Max via amazon.com About 'Priscilla'
Based on the book “Elvis and Me” by Priscilla Presley with Sandra Harmon, Sofia Coppola’s “Priscilla” is set to join Baz Luhrmann’s “Elvis” on Max on Friday,...
- 2/23/2024
- by Matt Tamanini
- The Streamable
This article contains Priscilla spoilers.
Director Sofia Coppola scrubs at tarnished memories for the biopic Priscilla. It’s a bold choice since Elvis Presley disciples prefer admiring unvarnished relics in a still-flourishing golden hue. The film’s primary source and title character, Priscilla Presley, has offered no apologies for her time with the mythological musician, just the facts as she remembers them. These recollections do not diminish her love of the man who came to define her existence, but they cloud his legacy to this day.
“Why are you coming for my dad and my family?” Elvis’ daughter Lisa Marie Presley wrote Coppola after reading an early draft of the screenplay, as per Variety. “My father only comes across as a predator and manipulative,” the provocative emails insinuated. “As his daughter, I don’t read this and see any of my father in this character. I don’t read this...
Director Sofia Coppola scrubs at tarnished memories for the biopic Priscilla. It’s a bold choice since Elvis Presley disciples prefer admiring unvarnished relics in a still-flourishing golden hue. The film’s primary source and title character, Priscilla Presley, has offered no apologies for her time with the mythological musician, just the facts as she remembers them. These recollections do not diminish her love of the man who came to define her existence, but they cloud his legacy to this day.
“Why are you coming for my dad and my family?” Elvis’ daughter Lisa Marie Presley wrote Coppola after reading an early draft of the screenplay, as per Variety. “My father only comes across as a predator and manipulative,” the provocative emails insinuated. “As his daughter, I don’t read this and see any of my father in this character. I don’t read this...
- 2/23/2024
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
Elvis Presley‘s “If I Can Dream” isn’t just a stunning song. It’s a stunning song that changed the entire arc of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll‘s career. In retrospect, Priscilla Presley called the song “a blessing.”
Elvis Presley’s ‘Bossa Nova Baby’ and ‘If I Can Dream’ bookended a bad era
Elvis’ “Bossa Nova Baby” is not one of his most famous songs today. It should be more remembered today because its release was a serious demarcation point in his career. The Billboard Book of Number 1 Hits says it reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1963. Afterward, Elvis wouldn’t have a top 10 single for five-and-a-half years, save for a cover of the religious song “Crying in the Chapel.”
“If I Can Dream” gave Elvis new momentum. Walter Earl Brown, a member of the group The Skylarks, wrote the song for the ’68 Comeback Special because...
Elvis Presley’s ‘Bossa Nova Baby’ and ‘If I Can Dream’ bookended a bad era
Elvis’ “Bossa Nova Baby” is not one of his most famous songs today. It should be more remembered today because its release was a serious demarcation point in his career. The Billboard Book of Number 1 Hits says it reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1963. Afterward, Elvis wouldn’t have a top 10 single for five-and-a-half years, save for a cover of the religious song “Crying in the Chapel.”
“If I Can Dream” gave Elvis new momentum. Walter Earl Brown, a member of the group The Skylarks, wrote the song for the ’68 Comeback Special because...
- 2/22/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1955, Elvis Presley’s career was heating up, and his new record label gave him a bonus that proved his promise as an artist. RCA Victor bought Elvis’ contract for an unprecedented sum, considerably padding the singer’s pockets. He used his bonus on his mother, Gladys Presley.
Elvis purchased a gift for his mother with his record label bonus
Elvis had an incredibly close relationship with his mother. He spent most of his time with her while growing up and dreamed of a day when he could provide for her and his father.
“Elvis would hear us worrying about our debts, being out of work and sickness,” Gladys said in the book Last Train to Memphis: The Rise of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick, “and he’d say, ‘Don’t you worry none, Baby. When I grow up, I’m going to buy you a fine house and pay...
Elvis purchased a gift for his mother with his record label bonus
Elvis had an incredibly close relationship with his mother. He spent most of his time with her while growing up and dreamed of a day when he could provide for her and his father.
“Elvis would hear us worrying about our debts, being out of work and sickness,” Gladys said in the book Last Train to Memphis: The Rise of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick, “and he’d say, ‘Don’t you worry none, Baby. When I grow up, I’m going to buy you a fine house and pay...
- 2/19/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Priscilla Presley is mired in a legal battle with a company that claims it has the exclusive right to exploit her name, image and likeness.
Priscilla Presley Partners (Ppp), a firm started by Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko, claimed that it helped broker a deal for the A24 movie adaptation of Presley’s memoir — as well as a settlement of an estate dispute challenging the will of her late daughter, Lisa Marie — and has sued to enforce its rights.
The company alleges breach of contract against Presley — who allegedly was months away from bankruptcy before it started managing her business affairs — for reneging on their agreement to partner with Keya Morgan, Stan Lee’s former business manager charged with multiple counts related to elder abuse against the comic book legend.
A judge on Monday scheduled an evidentiary hearing to assess whether Presley can be sued in Florida state court.
In a statement,...
Priscilla Presley Partners (Ppp), a firm started by Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko, claimed that it helped broker a deal for the A24 movie adaptation of Presley’s memoir — as well as a settlement of an estate dispute challenging the will of her late daughter, Lisa Marie — and has sued to enforce its rights.
The company alleges breach of contract against Presley — who allegedly was months away from bankruptcy before it started managing her business affairs — for reneging on their agreement to partner with Keya Morgan, Stan Lee’s former business manager charged with multiple counts related to elder abuse against the comic book legend.
A judge on Monday scheduled an evidentiary hearing to assess whether Presley can be sued in Florida state court.
In a statement,...
- 2/14/2024
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Priscilla Presley — fresh off her settlement with granddaughter Riley Keough that granted her a $1 million lump-sum payment, $100,000 annual salary, and burial rights near Elvis at Graceland — is gearing up for a new court showdown over a lawsuit that claims she was on the brink of “insolvency” two years ago when she partnered with a Florida woman she later shunned.
The partner, memorabilia auctioneer Brigitte Kruse, is now suing Priscilla Presley for breach of contract, alleging the world-famous actress and author walked away from their deal after her circumstances changed in...
The partner, memorabilia auctioneer Brigitte Kruse, is now suing Priscilla Presley for breach of contract, alleging the world-famous actress and author walked away from their deal after her circumstances changed in...
- 2/14/2024
- by Nancy Dillon
- Rollingstone.com
Elvis Presley’s appearance changed over the course of his career, but this was not because of cosmetic surgery. According to his bodyguard, Elvis had cosmetic surgery, but it was not noticeable, even to the people closest to him. His bodyguard claimed that after Elvis had the surgery, he tried to convince others to get it.
Elvis Presley’s bodyguard said the singer had cosmetic surgery
As the 1970s wore on, Elvis’ appearance changed. He was reaching middle age and had gained weight. He reportedly had cosmetic surgery, perhaps as a way to address this.
“He had it done at the Mid-South Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee,” his bodyguard Sonny West said, per the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “He had it done in 1975 because I got the bill. He went into the hospital under my name and it came up on my Blue Cross-Blue Shield card. The hospital...
Elvis Presley’s bodyguard said the singer had cosmetic surgery
As the 1970s wore on, Elvis’ appearance changed. He was reaching middle age and had gained weight. He reportedly had cosmetic surgery, perhaps as a way to address this.
“He had it done at the Mid-South Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee,” his bodyguard Sonny West said, per the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “He had it done in 1975 because I got the bill. He went into the hospital under my name and it came up on my Blue Cross-Blue Shield card. The hospital...
- 2/12/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley’s bodyguards spent so much time with the singer that they saw all sides of his personality. The Elvis they initially befriended and wanted to protect was kind, generous, and charismatic. He drew people in with an ease that had nothing to do with his fame. Elvis was not always this person, though. According to the people close to him, he could be incredibly manipulative, swinging rapidly from one emotional extreme to the next.
Elvis’ emotions changed quickly, according to his bodyguard
When Dave Hebler met Elvis, he could hardly believe how charming he was. He gifted Hebler a car shortly after meeting him and welcomed him into his entourage.
“Perhaps, now, I see it clearer, but there is no getting away from it. I had never met — before or since — never read of, nor heard of, any man who could so totally disarm you with charm, generosity...
Elvis’ emotions changed quickly, according to his bodyguard
When Dave Hebler met Elvis, he could hardly believe how charming he was. He gifted Hebler a car shortly after meeting him and welcomed him into his entourage.
“Perhaps, now, I see it clearer, but there is no getting away from it. I had never met — before or since — never read of, nor heard of, any man who could so totally disarm you with charm, generosity...
- 2/10/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.