Linda Thompson Reflects on Her Love Story with Elvis Presley—A Relationship Filled with Passion, Pain, and Lasting Memories
Linda Thompson, one of the most significant women in Elvis Presley’s life, has opened up about their romance, the struggles they faced, and why she ultimately walked away just a year before his tragic passing at age 42.
A Childhood Dream Turned Reality
Born on May 23, 1950, in Memphis, Tennessee, Linda Thompson grew up admiring Elvis Presley’s music.
As a young girl, she dreamed of meeting him, never imagining that one day she would become part of his inner circle.
Her early success in beauty pageants, including winning the title of Miss Tennessee in 1972, would eventually lead her to cross paths with the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Falling in Love with Elvis Presley
By the time Linda met Elvis at a private screening in Las Vegas, he was newly divorced from Priscilla Presley.
Their chemistry was instant, and before long, she moved into Graceland, becoming a key figure in Elvis’s life.
Their relationship was filled with deep affection, but it also exposed her to the darker aspects of his world, including his growing health struggles and dependence on prescription medication.
Life Behind the Scenes at Graceland
While Elvis continued to captivate audiences, behind closed doors, he battled personal demons.
Linda, who described them as “kindred spirits,” took on the role of caretaker, trying to help him maintain his health.
Despite her efforts, his self-destructive habits persisted, and after years of emotional and physical exhaustion, she made the painful decision to leave in 1976, though they remained close until his final days.
The Tragic End and a Lasting Connection
Even after their breakup, Linda still worried about Elvis. Just days before his death on August 16, 1977, she tried reaching him, asking a friend to check on his well-being.
The devastating news of his passing shook her, and she later revealed that Lisa Marie Presley called her immediately after hearing of her father’s death.
Life After Elvis
Following their relationship, Linda pursued a successful career in entertainment, contributing to hit movie soundtracks and writing Grammy-nominated songs.
She later married Olympic athlete Bruce Jenner (now Caitlyn Jenner) and music producer David Foster. Despite moving on, she has never stopped honoring Elvis’s memory.
Keeping the King’s Legacy AliveTo this day, Linda shares personal memories, rare photos, and even unreleased recordings of her time with Elvis.
To this day, Linda shares personal memories, rare photos, and even unreleased recordings of her time with Elvis.
Her tribute to him remains heartfelt, proving that while their love story ended decades ago, the bond they shared will never fade.
