Priscilla Presley is an American actress, entrepreneur, and cultural icon best known for her marriage to music legend Elvis Presley.
While she first entered the public eye as the King of Rock and Roll’s wife, she later built a successful career of her own, starring in films and television, managing Elvis’ estate, and becoming a powerful businesswoman.
Her elegance, intelligence, and determination have made her an enduring figure in entertainment and pop culture.
Early Life and Background
Priscilla Ann Wagner was born on May 24, 1945, in Brooklyn, New York. After her biological father, a U.S. Navy pilot, passed away in a plane crash, her mother remarried Air Force officer Paul Beaulieu.
Priscilla was raised in a military family, which meant frequent relocations, eventually leading her to Wiesbaden, Germany, where she would meet Elvis Presley.
Meeting Elvis and Their Relationship
At just 14 years old, Priscilla met Elvis Presley in 1959 while he was stationed in Germany during his military service.
Despite their age difference, they formed an immediate connection, and after he returned to the United States, they kept in touch. In 1963, at Elvis’ request, Priscilla moved to Graceland to live under his supervision while finishing high school.
On May 1, 1967, after years of public fascination with their relationship, Priscilla and Elvis married in a highly publicized ceremony in Las Vegas.
A year later, they welcomed their daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, on February 1, 1968. However, their marriage was not without challenges, and by 1972, they had separated. Their divorce was finalized in 1973, though they remained close friends until Elvis’ passing in 1977.
Business Empire and Preserving Elvis’ Legacy
Following Elvis’ death, Priscilla Presley became the key figure in managing his estate. She transformed Graceland into one of the most visited tourist attractions in the United States.
Under her leadership, Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE) turned Graceland into a multimillion-dollar enterprise, securing Elvis’ legacy for generations.
Her business acumen was widely praised, as she took what was initially a struggling estate and turned it into a financial success. Today, Graceland continues to be a pilgrimage site for Elvis fans worldwide, thanks to her vision and dedication.
Acting Career and Hollywood Success
While many knew her as Elvis’ former wife, Priscilla Presley carved out her own career in Hollywood. She made her acting debut in 1983 when she joined the hit television series Dallas, playing Jenna Wade. Her performance was well-received, and she remained on the show until 1988.
She then transitioned to comedy, starring in The Naked Gun film series alongside Leslie Nielsen. Her role as Jane Spencer in The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! (1988) and its sequels showcased her comedic timing and helped establish her as a versatile actress.
Personal Life and Later Years
Priscilla Presley remained in the public eye long after her divorce from Elvis. She had a long-term relationship with businessman Marco Garibaldi, with whom she shares a son, Navarone Garibaldi.
In addition to acting and business, Priscilla has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including animal rights activism. She has also continued to protect and promote Elvis’ legacy, working on projects related to his music and estate.
The Tragic Deaths of Her Daughter and Grandson
Despite her success, Priscilla Presley has endured profound personal tragedies. On July 12, 2020, her grandson, Benjamin Keough, the son of Lisa Marie Presley, died by suicide at the age of 27. His passing deeply affected the Presley family, as he was often noted for his striking resemblance to Elvis.
Less than three years later, on January 12, 2023, Priscilla faced another heartbreaking loss when her only daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, passed away at the age of 54 due to cardiac complications.
Lisa Marie, who had been a musician in her own right, had struggled with personal hardships and the pain of losing her son, Benjamin. Priscilla, who had always shared a close bond with Lisa Marie, released a statement mourning her daughter’s passing and later fought to protect her legacy and the future of Graceland.
Legacy
Priscilla Presley’s influence extends far beyond being Elvis Presley’s former wife. As an actress, entrepreneur, and cultural icon, she built a legacy of her own.
Her work in preserving Graceland, her contributions to television and film, and her dedication to philanthropy have cemented her place in entertainment history.
