Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, transformed the music industry in the 1950s with legendary hits like Heartbreak Hotel and Jailhouse Rock. His electrifying stage presence and one-of-a-kind voice made him a global icon, inspiring generations of musicians and fans. Even decades after his passing in 1977, his legacy continues to thrive. Now, new revelations from his longtime bodyguard and close confidant, Sonny West, are shedding light on the private side of Elvis’s life—confirming long-held suspicions and uncovering the deep emotional bonds he shared with the women who truly mattered to him.
The Women Who Captured Elvis’s Heart
🔹 Anita Wood – A rising star in Hollywood, Anita Wood was one of Elvis’s most passionate relationships. Their love story began in 1957 and lasted until 1962, with serious discussions of marriage. She even put her career on hold at Elvis’s request. But when he was drafted into the military, the strain on their relationship proved too much, leading to their eventual breakup.
🔹 Priscilla Presley – In 1959, while stationed in Germany, Elvis met 14-year-old Priscilla Beaulieu. Despite their age gap, their bond grew through letters and secret visits, culminating in a lavish 1967 wedding in Las Vegas. Their life together at Graceland seemed like a fairytale, but behind closed doors, it was complicated—marked by Elvis’s controlling nature and Priscilla’s struggle for independence. Though they had a daughter, Lisa Marie, their marriage ended in divorce in 1973.
🔹 Ann-Margret – During the filming of Viva Las Vegas in 1964, Elvis and Ann-Margret’s on-screen chemistry was undeniable—and so was their real-life romance. Despite his commitment to Priscilla, their passionate connection flourished. Though their relationship didn’t last, their mutual admiration endured, with Ann-Margret remaining a lifelong friend and supporter of Elvis.
🔹 Linda Thompson – A former beauty queen, Linda met Elvis in 1972 and quickly became one of the most important figures in his later years. Moving into Graceland, she stood by him as his health and personal struggles worsened. As his addiction deepened, Linda made the heartbreaking decision to leave, but the love they shared had a lasting impact on both their lives.
The Truth Behind the Legend
Sonny West’s revelations confirm that these women weren’t just fleeting romances; they were key figures who shaped Elvis’s personal and professional journey. His life, often viewed through the lens of fame and fortune, was filled with a deep longing for love and connection. These relationships reveal a more vulnerable side of The King—a man searching for stability in a world that never stopped demanding more from him. As we remember Elvis Presley, his romantic life stands as a testament to the power of love, loyalty, and the sacrifices made behind the scenes of stardom. His music, his influence, and his story will forever live on.
