Linda Thompson opens up on relationship with Elvis Presley
In the 1970s, Linda Thompson was romantically involved with Elvis Presley, a relationship that ended just a year prior to The King’s untimely passing at the age of 42.
Now, she has shed light on her time with Elvis and the reasons behind her decision to leave.
One of the most fascinating things about music is how personal it feels. One individual might insist that a particular track is the best ever created, while another person might completely disagree, claiming it doesn’t even come close.
And then there are those who may not have heard that song at all.
With millions of songs having been composed throughout history, each carries its unique qualities, whether good or bad. However, when it comes to the monarch of this domain, there’s only one definitive answer: Elvis Presley.
Elvis Presley – The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll
Elvis revolutionized the global music scene. He wasn’t just an exceptional entertainer but also possessed remarkable charm and raw talent.
Alongside his legendary tracks like “Jailhouse Rock,” “Hound Dog,” “Love Me Tender,” and “In The Ghetto,” he also starred in several films that catapulted his career further. Classics such as King Creole (1958), Viva Las Vegas (1964), and The Trouble with Girls (1969) showcased his versatility as a performer.
Sadly, the world lost Elvis in August 1977. His death left a void in the music industry and among his fans worldwide.
Among those closest to him was his ex-girlfriend, Linda Thompson. She maintained contact with Elvis until the end of his life. Now, she has spoken about why she ultimately parted ways with him and shared insights into his final days.
Linda Thompson’s Early Years
Born on May 23, 1950, Linda Thompson grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, where Elvis was already making waves in talent shows at Humes High School. It wasn’t until 22 years later that Linda would meet him, though she had admired his music from a young age.
As a child in Memphis, Linda had a fondness for Elvis’s tunes. By the time he released Heartbreak Hotel, his first No. 1 hit, she was among the countless fans captivated by his voice.
She once told her parents at just six years old, “I’m going to marry Elvis Presley someday.”
Linda attended Kingsbury High School and participated in several beauty pageants. In 1969, she earned the title of Miss Shelby County, and the following year, she was crowned Miss Mid-South Fair.
Her streak of success didn’t end there; she won titles like Miss Liberty Bowl, Miss Okra, and Memphis State’s Golf Queen. While studying English at Memphis State University, Linda was also chosen for the university’s Homecoming Court.
By 1970, she secured the title of Miss Memphis State University and placed third in the Miss Tennessee competition. In 1972, she was named Miss Tennessee and went on to achieve third place in the Miss USA pageant.
Meeting Elvis Presley
While Linda was thriving in the world of pageants, Elvis Presley’s fame continued to soar. In 1970, he released his 12th studio album, That’s the Way It Is. At the time, he was married to Priscilla Presley, with whom he shared a daughter, Lisa Marie Presley.
However, by 1972, Elvis and Priscilla’s marriage had come to an end. Shortly after their separation, Elvis crossed paths with Linda Thompson during a private film screening.
At the Las Vegas Elvis Festival, Linda recounted the story of how Elvis approached her. “He greeted me with, ‘Well, hello honey!’” she shared.
Initially, Linda believed Elvis was still married and didn’t entertain any romantic thoughts. “I was just thrilled to meet my idol,” she admitted.
During the film, Elvis moved to sit beside her and eventually explained his marital status.
“He used the classic yawn-and-stretch move,” Linda laughed, adding, “He told me, ‘We’ve been separated since the end of last year. She’s moved on.’” Linda responded, “You should’ve married a southern girl,” which Elvis never forgot.
Their romance blossomed shortly after. Over the next four years, Linda experienced both love and heartbreak before ultimately deciding to leave.
Life at Graceland
Linda moved into Elvis’s Graceland estate, where she witnessed firsthand his self-destructive tendencies.
In 1973, during their first year together, Linda observed Elvis make history. His Aloha from Hawaii concert became the first solo artist performance broadcast globally via satellite. The show, featuring many of his biggest hits, reached over 40 countries and cost $2.5 million to produce.
Linda described their bond as unique and multifaceted, calling them “kindred spirits.” In her memoir, A Little Thing Called Life, she explained their dynamic:
“Ours was a full relationship. Sometimes, I was like a little girl, and he played the role of daddy. Other times, I was the mommy, and he was the baby. At different moments, we were lovers, siblings, and best friends. We were everything to each other.”
As their relationship progressed, Linda watched Elvis’s health deteriorate. He relied on medication, often mixing sleeping pills with other substances. She spent many nights watching over him to ensure he was breathing.
Eventually, in October 1975, Linda decided she couldn’t endure it any longer. She left to focus on her career but remained concerned about his well-being.
The Final Goodbye
Linda stayed in touch with Elvis after their breakup. She explained, “I worried no one would care for him the way I did.”
Just days before his passing in August 1977, Linda called Graceland to check on him. Elvis’s friend Charlie Hodge reassured her that he was fine.
On August 16, 1977, Linda received the devastating news: Elvis had been found unconscious in his bathroom and had passed away.
Linda reflected on the profound loss, sharing her memories and honoring him in her later years.
Elvis Presley remains an enduring icon. To this day, Linda pays tribute to the man she loved, keeping his legacy alive for generations to come.
