From Susan Walters to Cailee Spaeny: A look at Priscilla Presley's on-screen depictions

We all know Elvis Presley for his legendary performances, but his romance with Priscilla Presley has captured people's imaginations. With the latest release of Sofia Coppola's "Priscilla" on 3rd November, her life has come back into the spotlight.

This film, based on Priscilla's 1985 memoir "Elvis and Me," stars Jacob Elordi as Elvis and Cailee Spaeny as the titular character. As we explore the actresses who have portrayed Priscilla Presley on screen, it's clear that her story continues to fascinate audiences.

Cailee Spaeny in 'Priscilla' (2023)


Cailee Spaeny is the most recent actress to step into the role of Priscilla Presley. At the world premiere of "Priscilla" during the Venice Film Festival in September, Spaeny shared her experience of watching the movie alongside the real-life woman she portrayed. She said, "I think the thing that was most touching to me, also terrifying [was] to be watching the movie with Priscilla Presley right next to me. But at the end, I think she felt really moved by it. She looked at me and she said, 'That was a great performance,’ and that was the first time hearing that, which was — it’s just been absolutely surreal.”

Olivia DeJonge in 'Elvis' (2022)

In Baz Luhrmann’s 2022 Elvis biopic, Olivia DeJonge played Priscilla opposite Austin Butler's acclaimed performance as Elvis. Priscilla herself praised the film, saying, "I'm sitting there watching this movie and going 'god I wish he could see this. It was perfection." She also expressed her contentment with DeJonge's portrayal, highlighting her sensitivity and care in the role.

Antonia Bernath in 'Elvis' (2005)

In the 2005 Emmy-nominated miniseries "Elvis," Antonia Bernath took on the role of Priscilla opposite Jonathan Rhys Meyers as Elvis. This movie delved into the singer's early years and rise to fame, and received acclaim for its performances, including Rose McGowan as Ann-Margret, Randy Quaid as Tom Parker, Camryn Manheim as Gladys Presley, and Robert Patrick as Vernon Presley.

Susan Walters in 'Elvis & Me' (1988)

"Priscilla" in 2023 isn't the first adaptation of Priscilla Presley's 1985 memoir. A miniseries with the same name was released in 1988, where Susan Walters portrayed Priscilla, and Dale Midkiff portrayed Elvis. This earlier adaptation also explored their unique love story.

Season Hubley in 'Elvis' (1979)

In the 1979 TV movie "Elvis," Kurt Russell portrayed the iconic performer Elvis, while Season Hubley stepped into the role of Priscilla. The film earned a Golden Globe nomination for the Best Television Movie, and three other Emmy nominations, including one for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Special for Russell's performance.

The legacy of Priscilla Presley continues to be a source of fascination for audiences, with various actresses taking on the challenge of bringing her character to life on screen. Each portrayal brings a unique perspective to the story of the woman who captured the heart of the King of Rock 'n' Roll.