Elvis Presley's Leading Ladies: A Deep Dive into the King's On-Screen Romance
Elvis Presley, the iconic 'King of Rock 'n' Roll', dominated the box office with his 31 feature films between 1956 and 1969. While critics often panned these movies, fans adored them, and none of them lost money. This article explores six of Elvis's most memorable leading ladies, delving into their roles, relationships, and legacies.
The Embarrassed Starlet: Dolores Hart
Dolores Hart, a stunning starlet, made her film debut opposite Elvis in 'Loving You' (1957) and later competed with Carolyn Jones for his affections in 'King Creole' (1958). Hart's first day of shooting was awkward, as she had to kiss Elvis, leading to an embarrassing moment. The director noticed her discomfort and suggested makeup to cover her blushing ears. Hart's experience highlights the challenges of on-screen romance, even for seasoned professionals. She left Hollywood in 1963 to join a cloistered monastery, leaving behind a promising acting career.
The Western Co-Star: Barbara Eden
Barbara Eden, known for her role in 'I Dream of Jeannie', co-starred with Elvis in the 1960 Western 'Flaming Star'. In this film, Elvis played the son of a white rancher father and a Kiowa mother. Eden praised Elvis's acting abilities, describing the role as demanding. She also recalled Elvis's musical talents, as he often joined his father and a friend to play and sing between takes. Eden's performance in 'Flaming Star' showcased her versatility as an actress.
The Bond Girl: Ursula Andress
Ursula Andress, famous for her role in 'Dr. No', accepted Elvis's offer to work in 'Fun in Acapulco'. Despite rumors of a romance, the two maintained a platonic friendship. Elvis's close friend, Alan Fortas, confirmed this, stating that Andress was married to John Derek and that Elvis did not pursue married women. Their professional collaboration showcased Elvis's ability to work with diverse leading ladies.
The Musical Partner: Ann-Margret
In 'Viva Las Vegas' (1964), Elvis found a musical and romantic partner in Ann-Margret. She not only performed three songs with Elvis but also had two solo numbers. Their off-screen romance remains a mystery, as Ann-Margret has been tight-lipped about it. This collaboration showcased Elvis's talent for choosing leading ladies who could hold their own both on and off-screen.
The Frequent Co-Star: Shelley Fabares
Shelley Fabares, known for her role in 'The Donna Reed Show', holds the distinction of being the only woman to appear with Elvis in three movies: 'Girl Happy' (1965), 'Spinout' (1966), and 'Clambake' (1967). Fabares' hit song, 'Johnny Angel', briefly topped the Billboard charts in 1962, further solidifying her status as a rising star. Her frequent collaborations with Elvis showcased his versatility as a leading man and her talent as a leading lady.
The Spiritual Companion: Donna Douglas
Donna Douglas, famous for her role as Elly May Clampett in 'The Beverly Hillbillies', co-starred with Elvis in 'Frankie and Johnny' (1966). In this film, they played riverboat entertainers and jealous lovers. Douglas appreciated Elvis's professionalism and shared a deep spiritual connection with him. Their on-set meditation sessions added a unique dimension to their collaboration.
The Crush: Mary Tyler Moore
Mary Tyler Moore, before her Emmy-winning sitcom, played a nun in 'Change of Habit' (1969). She recalled Elvis's shy confession of a long-standing crush on her, showcasing his vulnerability. Moore's performance as a nun resisting temptation added depth to the film, and her collaboration with Elvis demonstrated his ability to work with a wide range of characters.
In conclusion, Elvis Presley's leading ladies were not just co-stars but also diverse and talented individuals who left their mark on his films. Their varying relationships with Elvis, from on-screen romance to platonic collaborations, showcase the versatility of his acting choices and the depth of his on-screen chemistry. These leading ladies contributed to the enduring legacy of Elvis's films, making them memorable for both fans and critics alike.
