Linda Thompson Opens Up About Her Relationship with Elvis Presley
Linda Thompson Opens Up About Her Relationship with Elvis Presley
Linda Thompson shared a deep and passionate romance with Elvis Presley in the 1970s, a relationship that ended just a year before the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll tragically passed away at the age of 42. Now, she’s revealing the truth behind their time together—and what ultimately made her walk away.
Elvis Presley: The Undisputed King of Rock
Music is deeply personal. One person’s favorite song might be another’s forgotten tune, but when it comes to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, there’s no debate—Elvis Presley reigned supreme. With hits like Jailhouse Rock, In the Ghetto, Hound Dog, and Love Me Tender, Elvis revolutionized the music industry. He wasn’t just a singer—he was a global sensation, captivating audiences with his talent, charisma, and electrifying stage presence.
Beyond music, Elvis also made waves in Hollywood. His films, including King Creole (1958), Viva Las Vegas (1964), and The Trouble with Girls (1969), showcased his charm and expanded his stardom. But despite his professional success, his personal life was often turbulent.
Linda Thompson: From Beauty Queen to Elvis’s Girlfriend
Born on May 23, 1950, in Memphis, Tennessee—Elvis’s own hometown—Linda Thompson grew up admiring the King’s music. Even as a young girl, she believed she would meet and marry him one day.
Her rise to fame began in beauty pageants. While attending Kingsbury High School, she won titles like Miss Shelby County and Miss Mid-South Fair. Later, at Memphis State University, she was crowned Miss Memphis State and even placed third in the Miss Tennessee and Miss USA competitions. But it was a fateful meeting in 1972 that would change her life forever.
Meeting Elvis Presley
At a private film screening shortly after his divorce from Priscilla Presley, Elvis spotted Linda and made his move. “Well, hello honey,” he greeted her with his signature Southern charm. Initially, Linda thought he was still married, but once she learned otherwise, their romance quickly blossomed.
Soon, she moved into Graceland, stepping into a world of luxury, fame, and—unfortunately—Elvis’s deepening struggles.
A Love Story Marked by Struggles
During their four-year relationship, Linda experienced the highs and lows of life with Elvis. She witnessed history in 1973 when his Aloha from Hawaii concert became the first live performance broadcast via satellite to over 40 countries. But behind the glitz, Elvis was battling inner demons.
His health began to decline, and Linda saw firsthand his dependence on prescription medications. Night after night, she would stay awake, watching over him to ensure he was still breathing. “It was emotionally exhausting,” she admitted. “I loved him more than my own life, and watching him self-destruct was heartbreaking.”
Why Linda Left Elvis
Despite her love for him, Linda could no longer endure watching Elvis deteriorate. In October 1975, after another hospitalization, she made the painful decision to leave and focus on her own career in Los Angeles. Still, she couldn’t shake the feeling that no one else would care for him the way she did.
“I had this haunting feeling,” she said. “I knew his habits, his needs—I worried no one else would.”
Elvis’s Tragic Final Days
On August 16, 1977, the world lost a legend. Linda had tried reaching out just days before, asking his best friend to check on him. “Tell him I called, and I love him,” she said. But it was too late.
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Elvis was found unresponsive in his Graceland bathroom. His passing shook the world, leaving millions mourning the King.
Linda’s Life After Elvis
Following her relationship with Elvis, Linda built an impressive career in entertainment. She acted in films, wrote music, and even earned Grammy and Academy Award nominations for her contributions to The Bodyguard soundtrack.
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She later married Bruce Jenner (now Caitlyn Jenner), with whom she had two sons, Brody and Brandon Jenner. After their divorce in 1986, she wed record producer David Foster, though they separated in 2005.
Honoring Elvis’s Legacy
Even today, Linda continues to honor Elvis’s memory. On Instagram, she shares heartfelt tributes to the man who once meant everything to her. On the 43rd anniversary of his passing, she wrote:
“He was the king of cool as well as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. He had an enormous heart, unbridled generosity, and a profound sensitivity. The world lost an icon, but Elvis still lives in the hearts of millions.”
A Rare Recording Resurfaces
In recent years, an old, little-known recording from 1973 resurfaced on YouTube—Elvis and Linda harmonizing on Your Life Has Just Begun. It’s a touching, intimate glimpse into their love and the final years of the King.
Though decades have passed, Elvis Presley’s music and legacy remain as powerful as ever. His impact on the world is undeniable, and thanks to those who loved him—like Linda Thompson—his memory will never fade.
Share this story to honor the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll!
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