When Debra Paget starred alongside Elvis Presley in his film debut, Love Me Tender, she not only dazzled audiences with her beauty and talent, but she also stole the heart of the King of Rock and Roll himself. Their relationship was a whirlwind of emotions, with Elvis becoming completely obsessed with Debra. Join us as we take a closer look at their captivating love story.
Debra Paget: A Rising Star
Debra Paget, born on August 19, 1933, in Denver, Colorado, was destined for stardom. Coming from a showbiz family, she was drawn to the world of entertainment from a young age. With her exceptional beauty, Debra quickly made a name for herself in Hollywood. In fact, she was even voted as having “The most beautiful legs in the world” by the National Association of Hosiery Manufacturers. However, it was her role in Cecil B. DeMille’s epic film, The Ten Commandments, that truly catapulted her to stardom. 
Love at First Sight?
Debra Paget and Elvis Presley first met before their on-screen collaboration in Love Me Tender. Despite hearing mixed opinions about Elvis, Debra was pleasantly surprised by his genuine nature when they finally crossed paths. They quickly developed a connection, but it was more of a deep friendship rather than a passionate romance. Debra, being shy and emotionally inexperienced, triggered an obsession in Elvis.
A Proposal Denied
Elvis’s infatuation with Debra reached new heights when he asked her to marry him. However, Debra’s parents strongly disapproved of their relationship, and she valued their opinions deeply. Although she cared for Elvis deeply, she ultimately turned down his proposal. Instead, she found love with Howard Hughes, a famous film producer and billionaire. 
Despite not being romantically involved, Debra and Elvis maintained a close bond. Many believe that Debra’s influence even shaped Elvis’s preferences in terms of appearance and style. While their paths eventually diverged, they left an indelible mark on each other’s lives.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
In 1964, Debra Paget bid farewell to the entertainment industry and chose to lead a peaceful and private life away from the spotlight. Now 89 years old, she cherishes her privacy, leaving little information available about her current life. Nevertheless, she will always be remembered as the leading lady who captured Elvis Presley’s heart. 
Elvis’s Other Leading Ladies
Interestingly, Debra Paget was not the only co-star whom Elvis wanted to marry. After working with Joan Blackman in Blue Hawaii, Elvis also expressed a desire to tie the knot with her. However, he was already in a relationship with Priscilla, creating a complicated love triangle. Joan, bearing a striking resemblance to Priscilla, declined Elvis’s proposals, preferring to be recognized for her talent as an actress rather than for her association with the King.
In the end, Elvis’s relationships with these leading ladies may have been tumultuous, but they undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping his life and career.
