Priscilla Presley recently shared her journey of building her own identity beyond her famous association with Elvis Presley. During a solo panel at Rhode Island Comic Con on Friday, November 1, the actress and businesswoman opened up about her career and life with Elvis, revealing which projects helped her become known as Priscilla rather than just “Elvis’s ex-wife.”
When a fan asked which post-divorce project best allowed her to be seen as herself rather than through the lens of Elvis’s fame, Priscilla, 79, reflected, “I think the movies that I’ve done. I think of just, basically, it was my choice.” Highlighting her roles in The Naked Gun and the TV show Dallas, she continued, “That really freed me a bit of being my own person.”
Priscilla’s foray into acting led her to roles like Jane Spencer in The Naked Gun film series and Jenna Wade on Dallas, which became pivotal in establishing her own identity. She later appeared in popular shows like Melrose Place, Spin City, and recently contributed her voice to Agent Elvis. Beyond acting, Priscilla co-founded Elvis Presley Enterprises, ensuring her late husband’s legacy lived on while also paving her own way in the entertainment industry.
During the panel, Priscilla spoke candidly about Elvis’s career, specifically the early days when he selected his own songs and enjoyed more creative freedom. “I think the first [songs], when he first started out… he wasn’t so controlled by Colonel [Parker],” she recalled, referring to Elvis’s longtime manager. “He was pretty free to be him, even with the first movies. He loved what he did,” she shared, noting how this changed when Colonel Parker began to dictate more aspects of his career.
She also weighed in on the resurgence of Elvis impersonators and cover artists, admitting that, although initially hesitant, she’s come to appreciate the way these tributes are keeping Elvis’s legacy alive for younger generations. “At first, I didn’t like it,” she admitted. “Then, I was seeing what’s happening with these kids, young kids who are dressed like Elvis. Five-year-olds… I’m thinking it’s keeping him in the picture, alive, and so, I don’t mind it.”
Priscilla’s deep connection to Elvis’s legacy continues, but she also cherishes the memories of her own accomplishments. The couple’s relationship began when Priscilla was just 14 years old and Elvis was 24. They eventually married in Las Vegas on May 1, 1967, when she was 21, and welcomed their only child, Lisa Marie Presley, the following year. Though they divorced in 1973, Priscilla has carried forward both her memories and her own career. Her impact within and beyond the Presley name remains profound, and she embraces her unique journey with pride.
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