Priscilla Presley Opens Up About Her Relationship with Elvis at Venice Film Festival Premiere
Priscilla Presley graced the red carpet at the Venice Film Festival for the premiere of Sofia Coppola’s “Priscilla,” a film that delves into her captivating and storied relationship with the iconic Elvis Presley. Following the premiere, Priscilla Presley took the stage during a press conference to discuss their remarkable connection and address the age gap that raised eyebrows during their time together.
The love story of Priscilla and Elvis Presley began in 1959 when their paths serendipitously crossed. Priscilla, then just 14 years old, met Elvis, who was 24 at the time, while he was stationed in Germany during his military service. Priscilla’s stepfather was also serving in the Air Force nearby, which led to their fateful encounter.
During the press conference, Priscilla shared intimate insights into their relationship.
She revealed that Elvis confided in her, sharing his deepest fears, hopes, and the enduring pain of losing his beloved mother. Priscilla played a pivotal role in his life as a compassionate listener and a source of solace.
“Elvis would pour his heart out to me, his fears, his hopes, the loss of his mother which he never ever got over, and I was the person who really sat there to listen and to comfort him,” Priscilla explained. “I was a little bit older in life than in numbers, and that was the attraction. And you know, people think, ‘Oh, it was sex…’ Not at all. I never had sex with him. He was very kind, very soft, very loving. But he also respected the fact that I was only 14 years old. We were more in mind and thought. And that was our relationship.”
Priscilla emphasized that it was her maturity beyond her years, her ability to empathize and be a confidante that drew Elvis to her. Their bond transcended the physical, focusing on emotional connection and mutual understanding.
“It was very difficult for my parents to understand that Elvis would be so interested in me, and I really do think it was because I was more of a listener,” Priscilla added.
Despite the initial challenges posed by their age difference and the extraordinary circumstances they faced, Priscilla fondly referred to Elvis as the love of her life. They tied the knot in 1967, embarking on a journey that lasted until 1973 when they parted ways.
Priscilla acknowledged that it was the demanding lifestyle that tested their relationship, a challenge that many women can relate to. However, their deep connection endured, and they remained close even after their separation.
“It was the lifestyle that was so difficult for me, and I think any woman can relate to that,” she confessed. “But it didn’t mar our relationship; we still remained very close. And of course, we had our daughter, and I made sure that he saw her all the time. It was like we never left each other.”
Sofia Coppola’s film, “Priscilla,” draws inspiration from Priscilla Presley’s 1985 memoir, “Elvis and Me,” offering audiences a glimpse into the profound and enduring love story that unfolded between Priscilla and the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The film is set to hit theaters on October 27, promising an intimate portrayal of their remarkable journey that transcended age and expectations.
