Priscilla Presley reflects on life after Elvis in new memoir Softly, as I Leave You

Priscilla Presley is opening up about her life before and after Elvis Presley in her new memoir, Softly, as I Leave You, set for release on September 23.

The book, which she describes as her “final telling,” offers an intimate look into her marriage, divorce, and life after the King of Rock and Roll.

Priscilla, now 80, first met Elvis as a teenager in Germany before marrying him in 1967. Their high-profile union ended in divorce in 1973, though she insists the separation was not for lack of love. “I am still very much in love with him,” she told CBS News. “I just couldn’t live the life.”

The memoir recounts not only their marriage but also the struggles of sharing Elvis with the world. Despite affairs on both sides, the pair remained close even after their split and never remarried. Following Elvis’ death in 1977, Priscilla took on the challenge of preserving Graceland, transforming it into a global landmark rather than selling it.

The book also touches on raising their daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, whose sudden death in 2023 brought fresh grief to the family. “I miss her every day,” Priscilla said, noting that both Elvis and Lisa Marie are buried at Graceland, where she too plans to be laid to rest.

Beyond her role as Elvis’ wife, Priscilla found success as an actress in Dallas and The Naked Gun films, while also reflecting on her experiences with stars like Michael Jackson and O.J. Simpson.

With Softly, as I Leave You, Priscilla Presley offers her definitive account of life, love, and legacy tied forever to Elvis.