Did Elvis Really Not Want to Marry Priscilla?
Elvis Presley and Priscilla Beaulieu Presley’s marriage has been a topic of much speculation and debate over the years. One of the most intriguing questions that has lingered is whether Elvis really did not want to marry Priscilla. This article delves into the facts and myths surrounding this controversial topic, shedding light on the couple’s relationship and the circumstances that led to their union.
The Relationship Between Elvis and Priscilla
Elvis and Priscilla first met in 1956 when Elvis was just 21 years old and Priscilla was 14. Their initial encounter was brief, but they reconnected in 1960 when Elvis invited Priscilla to his home in Memphis. Over time, their friendship blossomed into a romantic relationship, much to the surprise of many fans and critics alike.
Despite the age difference and the public’s initial skepticism, the couple seemed genuinely in love. They announced their engagement in 1967 and were married on May 1, 1967, in Las Vegas. The wedding was a grand affair, attended by numerous celebrities and friends.
The Myth of Elvis’s Resistance
One of the most enduring myths surrounding Elvis and Priscilla’s marriage is that Elvis did not want to marry her. This belief is often attributed to the fact that Elvis was known for his womanizing ways and his tendency to avoid commitment. Additionally, there are rumors that Priscilla’s parents were against the marriage due to Elvis’s reputation and his previous relationships.
However, the truth behind Elvis’s feelings towards marriage is more complex. According to biographers and friends of Elvis, he was genuinely in love with Priscilla and was eager to marry her. In fact, Elvis was so keen on the idea of marriage that he reportedly even asked his mother to help him prepare for the ceremony.
The Role of Priscilla’s Parents
One factor that played a significant role in the couple’s decision to marry was the influence of Priscilla’s parents. Priscilla’s father, who was a career military man, was strict and disciplined. He believed that Elvis was not the right man for his daughter and tried to discourage the relationship. However, Priscilla stood firm in her love for Elvis, and her parents eventually gave their blessing for the marriage.
The Impact of Their Marriage
Elvis and Priscilla’s marriage had a significant impact on both their lives. While the relationship was not without its challenges, the couple remained together until Elvis’s death in 1977. Their marriage also had a profound effect on the Presley family, as Priscilla became an integral part of the family and raised Elvis’s daughter, Lisa Marie, after his death.
In conclusion, the notion that Elvis really did not want to marry Priscilla is largely a myth. While the couple’s relationship was not without its complexities, Elvis was genuinely in love with Priscilla and eager to marry her. The influence of Priscilla’s parents and the public’s perception of Elvis’s womanizing ways have contributed to the perpetuation of this myth, but the truth is that Elvis and Priscilla’s marriage was a result of their genuine love for each other.
