At the Venice Film Festival, Priscilla Presley, aged 78, opened up to the media about her connection with her former spouse, Elvis Presley, clarifying that they did not engage in an intimate relationship when they first encountered each other when she was just 14 years old.
Before the screening of the new Sofia Coppola film “Priscilla,” based on Presley’s memoir “Elvis and Me” from 1985, the veteran actress expressed her emotions during a press conference on Monday.
In a clip released by TMZ, Presley revealed that her parents struggled to comprehend why Elvis took an interest in her but emphasized that she played a pivotal role as a confidante for the megastar, listening attentively to his thoughts and providing comfort.
Despite the significant age gap – with Elvis being 24 at the time of their meeting, the young Presley maintained that their bond was built on intellectual and emotional connections rather than physical intimacy.
Contrary to popular assumptions, she asserted, “People think, ‘Oh, it was s**, it was this.’
Not at all.
I never had s** with him.
He was very kind, very soft, very loving.
But he also respected the fact I was only 14 years old.
We were more in mind and thought and that was our relationship.”
Their initial encounter transpired at a gathering in Germany, marking the commencement of a relationship that led to marriage when Priscilla was 21 in 1967, as documented in her memoir where she disclosed preserving her virginity until their wedding.
Reflecting on their journey, Presley acknowledged that she parted ways with Elvis due to the challenges posed by his lifestyle.
Nevertheless, their separation post-divorce in 1973 did not sever their profound emotional attachment, maintaining a close relationship until Elvis’s untimely demise in 1977 from a heart attack at the age of 42.
Tragically, their daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, passed away on Jan. 12 following complications arising from bariatric surgery.
The forthcoming film “Priscilla,” slated for release on Oct. 27, features Cailee Spaeny portraying Priscilla and Jacob Elordi embodying the persona of Elvis.
The movie was received with immense acclaim at the Venice Film Festival, eliciting a seven-minute standing ovation, leaving Presley visibly moved.
Expressing trepidation about the public reception of the film, Presley commended director Sofia Coppola for her empathetic portrayal, remarking on the shared understanding between them despite their differing life narratives.
Addressing recent controversies, Presley refuted claims of discord with her granddaughter Riley Keough amidst legal disputes over Lisa Marie’s estate, underscoring the importance of trust and familial unity during challenging times.
