Priscilla Presley has successfully established her own identity, distinct from that of her legendary ex-husband, Elvis Presley, and she is now contemplating the projects that have helped her achieve this.
While participating in a solo panel at Rhode Island Comic Con on November 1, the actress and entrepreneur reflected on various elements of her life, including her late former spouse.
During the Q&A segment, a fan inquired about the numerous projects Priscilla pursued after her divorce from the iconic singer, asking which one she felt best represented her as an individual rather than as Elvis’s ex.
Priscilla’s impressive career spans films, TV shows, and entrepreneurial ventures, solidifying her unique identity
“The films I’ve worked on are a true reflection of my choices,” Priscilla, now 79, responded, highlighting specific projects. “I really loved the movies, especially the Naked Gun series. Working on Dallas was also fantastic.”
She noted, “That really allowed me to emerge as my own person.”
Priscilla’s acting career included her roles as Jane Spencer in the Naked Gun film trilogy and Jenna Wade in Dallas, along with appearances in shows like Melrose Place, Spin City, and Agent Elvis. Additionally, she is the co-founder and former chairperson of Elvis Presley Enterprises.
During the panel, Priscilla also discussed the legacy her late husband—who passed away on August 16, 1977, at the age of 42—created throughout his career, even sharing her thoughts on her favorite period of his music.
“I think of his early years when he had the freedom to choose his own songs, before he was so heavily managed by Colonel Parker,” she explained, referring to Colonel Thomas Andrew Parker’s influence on Elvis’ career.
“He was quite free to express himself, even in his first films. He truly enjoyed what he was doing. Things changed when the Colonel started making decisions about his path.”
When it comes to people covering Elvis’s songs, Priscilla stated, “I have no issues with it.”
“While it’s certainly not the same as Elvis, I believe it helps keep his legacy alive among younger generations. Many people take their children to see impersonators, and those kids love it,” she continued. “Initially, I wasn’t a fan, but seeing young kids dressed like Elvis, even five-year-olds, made me realize it’s keeping his spirit alive, so I actually support it now.”
Priscilla first met Elvis when she was just 14 years old, while he was 24. However, they didn’t marry until May 1, 1967, in Las Vegas when she turned 21.
The couple welcomed their daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, in February 1968, but they divorced in 1973. Tragically, Lisa passed away in January 2023 at the age of 54. Priscilla also shares a son, Navarone Garibaldi, with her ex-partner Marco Garibaldi.
