How Priscilla Presley Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Priscilla Presley—a timeline of influence.

Priscilla Presley is an American actress and businesswoman, best known as the ex-wife of Elvis Presley. She co-founded Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE) and transformed Graceland into a major tourist destination. As an actress, she starred in the Naked Gun film series alongside Leslie Nielsen and played Jenna Wade in the television series Dallas.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Legacy & Impact

1955: Elvis Stamp Image

In 1955, William Speer photographed Elvis, and this black-and-white image was featured on the Elvis forever stamp in 2015.

1979: Priscilla Assumed Role as Executor of Elvis's Estate

Following Vernon Presley's death in 1979, Priscilla assumed the role of executor of Elvis's estate.

1979: Portrayal in Elvis TV movie

In 1979, Priscilla Presley was portrayed by Season Hubley in the TV movie "Elvis", marking the beginning of numerous screen portrayals.

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June 7, 1982: Graceland Opened to the Public

On June 7, 1982, Graceland was opened to the public as a tourist attraction under Priscilla's guidance, successfully revitalizing Elvis's estate.

1988: Portrayal in Elvis and Me

In 1988, Susan Walters portrayed Priscilla Presley in the TV miniseries "Elvis and Me".

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1993: Portrayal in Elvis and the Colonel

In 1993, Kehli O'Byrne portrayed Priscilla Presley in the TV movie "Elvis and the Colonel".

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1993: First Elvis Stamp

In 1993, the first Elvis stamp was issued and became the most popular stamps sold in the Postal Service's history.

1997: Portrayal in Elvis Meets Nixon

In 1997, Alyson Court portrayed Priscilla Presley in "Elvis Meets Nixon".

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2006: Portrayal in Elvis TV miniseries

In 2006, Antonia Barnath portrayed Priscilla Presley in the TV miniseries "Elvis".

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2015: Executive Producer & Stamp Dedication

In 2015, Priscilla Presley became the executive producer of the album "If I Can Dream: Elvis Presley With the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra". Also in 2015, she dedicated an Elvis "forever" stamp with the U.S. Postmaster General Megan Brennan.

2016: Portrayal in Shangri-La Suite

In 2016, Ashley Greene portrayed Priscilla Presley in "Shangri-La Suite".

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July 22, 2022: Honoring Priscilla Presley: The Artist, The Woman

On July 22, 2022, Theatre Memphis honored Priscilla Presley's contributions to Memphis art and tourism with a gala, "Honoring Priscilla Presley: The Artist, The Woman."

2022: Portrayal in Elvis movie

In 2022, Olivia DeJonge portrayed Priscilla Presley in the movie "Elvis".

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2023: Portrayal in Priscilla movie

In 2023, Cailee Spaeny portrayed Priscilla Presley in the movie "Priscilla".

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2025: Tennessee's Highest Civilian Award

In 2025, Priscilla Presley was honored with Tennessee's highest civilian award for her contributions to the state's cultural heritage and her role in preserving Graceland as a historic landmark.