Linda Thompson Reflects on Her Relationship with Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll
Linda Thompson, who was romantically involved with Elvis Presley during the 1970s, ended their relationship just a year before his untimely passing at the age of 42. Decades later, she has shared intimate details about their time together and the emotional reasons behind her decision to leave.
Music is deeply personal, often stirring debates about what defines the “greatest” song or artist. While opinions may vary, few would argue about who holds the title of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. For generations, Elvis Presley has been revered as the undisputed icon who revolutionized the music world.
Elvis Presley: The Unrivaled King
Elvis wasn’t just a musician; he was a cultural phenomenon. With hits like Jailhouse Rock, Love Me Tender, and Hound Dog, he captured hearts across the globe. Beyond his legendary voice, Elvis had a magnetic charisma that made him one of the most captivating entertainers of all time.
His legacy extended to Hollywood, where he starred in iconic films such as King Creole (1958) and Viva Las Vegas (1964). Tragically, the world lost this larger-than-life figure in August 1977. Among those left to mourn was Linda Thompson, who remained connected to him until the end.
Growing Up in Memphis
Linda Thompson, born May 23, 1950, shared more than just a hometown with Elvis. Raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Linda was a fan of his music from a young age. She once told her parents at the breakfast table, “I’m going to marry Elvis Presley.”
As a teenager, Linda participated in numerous beauty pageants, winning titles like Miss Shelby County and Miss Tennessee. She even placed third in the Miss USA competition. Balancing her pageant success with academics, Linda majored in English at Memphis State University.
A Chance Encounter
In 1972, shortly after Elvis and Priscilla Presley divorced, Linda met the King at a private film screening. Initially unaware of his marital status, Linda thought she was simply meeting her idol. However, Elvis quickly clarified his situation, charming her with his iconic “Well, hello, honey!”
Their romance blossomed, and Linda soon moved into Graceland. During their four-year relationship, Linda witnessed Elvis’s meteoric rise and heartbreaking struggles.
A Rollercoaster Relationship
In 1973, Linda watched history unfold as Elvis performed his Aloha from Hawaii concert, broadcast globally to millions. Despite such monumental achievements, behind the scenes, Elvis’s health was deteriorating.
Linda described their relationship as deeply intertwined. “Ours was a complete relationship,” she wrote in her memoir, A Little Thing Called Life. “At times, I was like a mother to him; other times, he was like a father to me. We were everything to each other.”
Unfortunately, Elvis’s increasing reliance on prescription medication took a toll. Linda often stayed awake to ensure he was breathing, an emotionally and physically exhausting task.
Parting Ways
By 1975, Linda made the difficult decision to leave Elvis. Despite her love for him, she struggled to watch his self-destructive habits. She moved to Los Angeles to focus on her career but remained in touch with him.
Linda recalled her haunting sense of responsibility. “I felt no one could take care of him the way I did,” she shared.
A Heartbreaking Goodbye
Just days before Elvis’s passing on August 16, 1977, Linda made her final call to Graceland. She asked his friend Charlie Hodge to check on him. “Tell him I called and that I love him,” she said.
When news broke of Elvis’s death, Linda was devastated. She later became a source of comfort for his young daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, who reached out to her on that tragic night.
Honoring Elvis’s Legacy
Linda has dedicated much of her life to preserving Elvis’s memory. She frequently shares heartfelt tributes, describing him as “an original” with “an enormous heart” and “unparalleled talent.”
Today, Linda continues to celebrate the King’s legacy through her work and social media, ensuring his memory lives on in the hearts of fans worldwide.
A Rare Glimpse Into Elvis’s Life
In recent years, a rare recording of Elvis and Linda harmonizing on the song Your Life Has Just Begun has resurfaced, offering a poignant reminder of the magic they created together.
Elvis Presley’s impact on music and culture remains unparalleled. Share this story to honor his extraordinary life and legacy.