Priscilla Presley Reflects on Life After Elvis in New Zealand Tour

Priscilla Presley, the former wife of rock and roll legend Elvis Presley, is set to share her remarkable life story during her tour in New Zealand this month. Her appearances, scheduled for November 19 in Christchurch and November 20 in Auckland, are part of her event titled “An Evening with Priscilla Presley: Life After Elvis.” This tour follows the release of her memoir, Softly, As I Leave You – Life After Elvis, in which she recounts her experiences both with Elvis and beyond.

More than 48 years have passed since Elvis’s death, yet the impact of his legacy continues to resonate. Fans flocked to Graceland in Memphis to mourn his passing in August 1977, and Priscilla remains a vital link to his memory. She expresses a willingness to engage with fans who seek to learn more about the man behind the legend. “I don’t mind sharing him at all,” she states, acknowledging the enduring fascination surrounding Elvis.

Priscilla and Elvis first crossed paths in 1959 in Bad Nauheim, Germany, where her stepfather was stationed as an Air Force officer. Their marriage in Las Vegas in 1967 marked the beginning of a public life filled with both adoration and scrutiny. Their daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, was born the following year, adding another layer to their complex relationship, which ended in divorce in 1972.

Despite the separation, Priscilla has maintained a positive relationship with Elvis’s legacy. Following his death, she took on the role of co-executor of the Presley estate in 1979, overseeing its transformation into a successful business entity. This includes the management of Graceland and various licensing and merchandising efforts. She is particularly proud of her involvement in the recent biopic Elvis, directed by Baz Luhrmann, which has renewed interest in Elvis’s life and music.

Priscilla’s reflections on her life with Elvis reveal a deep connection to their shared history. “Going back to Graceland, it’s like I never left. I can still feel Elvis’ spirit,” she says, highlighting cherished memories of family gatherings and celebrations. She fondly recalls the simple joys of their time together, such as decorating the Christmas tree.

Throughout her life, Priscilla has also embraced her roles as an actress and philanthropist. She is known for her work in the television series Dallas and the Naked Gun films, as well as her long-standing commitment to The Dream Foundation, which fulfills final wishes for terminally ill adults. These varied experiences have shaped her perspective on fame and personal loss.

Priscilla’s recent personal losses, including the tragic deaths of her daughter Lisa Marie in early 2023 and her grandson Benjamin, have profoundly impacted her. She shared the grief of losing loved ones and reflected on the importance of cherishing memories. “I loved him playing Elvis, Austin is great. He studied Elvis for two years,” she noted, referring to Austin Butler’s performance in the biopic. The family remains close-knit, even in the face of tragedy.

As she prepares for her tour, Priscilla invites audiences to join her in celebrating both the highs and lows of her extraordinary life. “I cherish those who were a part of my journey,” she emphasizes, reflecting on enduring friendships and connections that have shaped her.

Priscilla Presley’s upcoming appearances in New Zealand promise to be a heartfelt exploration of her life, filled with stories of love, loss, and legacy. The events will take place at The Isaac Theatre Royal in Christchurch and the Bruce Mason Centre in Auckland, offering fans an intimate glimpse into the life of a woman who remains a vital part of Elvis Presley’s enduring legacy. Tickets are available through Ticketek and Ticketmaster.