In the 1970s, Linda Thompson had a close relationship with the legendary Elvis Presley, which ended just a year before the world lost The King at the tender age of 42. Today, Linda shares insights into their journey together and the reasons behind her decision to leave.
Music has a way of touching our hearts. It’s deeply personal; a song we cherish might not hold the same value for another person. Yet, when it comes to the king of rock & roll, there’s no debate—Elvis Presley reigns supreme.
Elvis Presley – The King
Elvis Presley offered the world something truly unique with his exceptional music and unparalleled charisma. His influence stretched far beyond the music scene, extending into films like “King Creole” (1958), “Viva Las Vegas” (1964), and “The Trouble with Girls” (1969), elevating his stardom even more.
His passing in August 1977 was a devastating blow, leaving millions grieving the loss of this incredible talent. Among those mourning was his ex-girlfriend, Linda Thompson, who stayed connected with him until the very end. Now, she shares her reasons for stepping away and recounts the intimate details of Elvis’s final days.
Linda, born in Memphis, Tennessee, on May 23, 1950, grew up in the same town where Elvis was already charming audiences with his singing prowess. Though 22 years would pass before they met, her admiration for Elvis started in her childhood.
Linda Thompson – A Promising Start
Growing up in Memphis, Linda Thompson was mesmerized by Elvis, especially when “Heartbreak Hotel” topped the charts. She dreamed of marrying him, often telling her parents with youthful certainty, “I’m going to marry Elvis Presley.”
During her teenage years at Kingsbury High School, Linda competed in various beauty pageants. She was crowned Miss Shelby County and Miss Mid-South Fair, achieving considerable fame in the regional pageantry circuit. Her titles kept increasing, eventually leading her to become Miss Memphis State University and the winner of third place in the Miss Tennessee pageant in 1970. Two years later, she won the title of Miss Tennessee, placing third in Miss USA.
Meeting the King
As Linda pursued her pageant ambitions, Elvis was making waves in the music industry. Although he was married to Priscilla Presley, his personal life was in turmoil by the early 1970s. In 1972, their marriage ended, leading Elvis to find solace in a new partner.
Soon after his divorce, Elvis met Linda at a private film screening. Though she initially believed he was still married, Elvis charmed her with a friendly greeting, “Well, hello honey!” She recalled how their initial meeting unfolded, eventually realizing Elvis was no longer married.
A New Chapter at Graceland
After their encounter, Elvis and Linda began dating, and Linda’s life transformed when she moved into Graceland. Here, she witnessed firsthand the pressures weighing on Elvis. Despite his historical concert, “Aloha from Hawaii,” marking the first global broadcast by a solo artist, Linda noticed troubling changes in Elvis.
More Than Just a Relationship
In her memoir, “A Little Thing Called Life,” Linda describes their bond as unique, intertwining various roles—a dynamic that made them kindred spirits. Their relationship was deeply emotional, with Linda often nurturing Elvis and sometimes taking on a protective role.
Toward the end of their relationship, Linda observed Elvis’s health declining, primarily due to his reliance on prescription medication. Concerned for his well-being, she stayed vigilant, ensuring he was safe during his sleep.
Elvis Presley and the Burden of Fame
The toll of his celebrity and health battles was a heavy burden. Despite staying near Graceland in a house Elvis bought for her, Linda ultimately decided to pursue her aspirations in Los Angeles by the fall of 1975.
Her deep concern for Elvis made leaving him challenging. She remained connected, hoping he would receive the care and love he needed. Even after departing, Linda’s thoughts were often with him, leading to her reaching out to Graceland just days before the tragic news of his passing.
Elvis’s Last Days
During a call to Graceland, Linda expressed her hopes for Elvis’s well-being. Speaking through his friend, Charlie Hodge, Linda conveyed her love, marking the last message she would relay to him while he was alive.
On August 16, 1977, the heartbreaking news reached Linda in Los Angeles: Elvis had been found unconscious and did not recover.
Lisa Marie Presley, Elvis’s young daughter, reached out to Linda that evening, illustrating the impact and closeness of their shared history.
Memories Through the Years
Photographs of Elvis and Linda often spark comparisons with his former wife, Priscilla, but it’s important to appreciate Linda for the crucial role she played in his life. Their love, during some of his most challenging years, remains an essential part of Elvis’s history.
Linda Thompson’s Journey in Entertainment
Amid her romance with Elvis, Linda pursued a career in acting and music, appearing in films and TV shows while nurturing her musical talents. Her path led her to Hollywood, where she penned songs for movies, earning a Grammy nomination for her contribution to “The Bodyguard” soundtrack.
Her personal life saw her marry Bruce Jenner and later Canadian record producer David Foster, with both relationships resulting in the joys and challenges of family life.
A Lasting Connection to Music
Throughout the years, Linda continued her artistic endeavors, contributing to various television series. Her deep connection to music and creativity persists, honoring Elvis in her own way.
On social media, Linda reminisces about her times with Elvis, paying tribute to the exceptional man who left an indelible mark on her life.
Recently, a rare recording from 1973 featuring Linda and Elvis captures their harmonious collaboration on “Your Life Has Just Begun.” This precious clip offers a glimpse into their deeply personal musical connection.
The story of Elvis Presley is one of timeless music and unforgettable charm. Share the memories and honor the legacy of The King with friends and loved ones.
