Emotions Run High During ‘Priscilla’ Press Conference
Priscilla Presley surprised journalists by speaking at the press conference for director Sofia Coppola’s new biopic, “Priscilla,” at the 80th Venice International Film Festival on Monday. The film festival took place on September 4th. Priscilla Presley is the former wife of the late rock ‘n’ roll icon, Elvis Presley, and she opened up about the loss of their daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, in a rare in-depth interview with Piers Morgan.
In the hourlong interview for “Piers Morgan Uncensored,” which aired on Thursday, Priscilla Presley spoke about her memories with Lisa Marie. She recalled breaking the news of Elvis’ death to their daughter almost 50 years ago and also discussed their final moments together earlier this year. Lisa Marie passed away at the age of 54 due to complications from an intestinal blockage.
“It was unbearable. I lost my mother, I lost my grandson, and I lost my daughter,” Priscilla said. “It’s like a large part of your life is taken away.”
During the interview, Priscilla also shared details about the last hug she gave Lisa Marie. Lisa Marie had a festive week leading up to her death, celebrating what would have been her father’s 88th birthday with fans at Elvis’ Memphis home, Graceland. She then attended the Golden Globe Awards, where she tearfully applauded Austin Butler’s portrayal of Elvis in Baz Luhrmann’s biopic. Priscilla noticed that Lisa Marie didn’t look well that night and appeared frail.
Lisa Marie suggested celebrating after the awards show, but she had to leave due to stomach pain. Priscilla remembers hugging her daughter and saying goodbye, not knowing it would be their last hug. When Priscilla arrived at the hospital, it was too late. “It’s still shocking that I don’t have her. I never thought it was the last,” Priscilla said.
In the interview, Priscilla also talked about how she protected Lisa Marie from the news of Elvis’ death in 1977. She had to find a way to tell her 9-year-old daughter, so she decided to bring her and Lisa Marie’s sister to Graceland. Priscilla told Lisa Marie that they were going to see Daddy, but he would be resting. She made sure to shield her daughter from newspaper headlines about Elvis and asked her teachers not to mention anything.
Reflecting on Elvis’ death, Priscilla admitted that it still makes her emotional even after almost 50 years. “The love is still there. He’s still so present.” She believes that it didn’t truly hit Lisa Marie until later on.
The release of Sofia Coppola’s “Priscilla” movie on Friday has provided a platform for Priscilla Presley to share her memories and emotions surrounding the loss of her daughter. It serves as a touching tribute to the Presley family and their enduring legacy in the world of music and entertainment.
Contributing: Marco della Cava, USA TODAY