The world of Lisa Marie Presley has been shaken to its core with the tragic passing of her son, Benjamin Keough, on Sunday, July 12. The 27-year-old grandson of the legendary Elvis Presley left behind a legacy far too soon, leaving his family and friends devastated. Let’s take a moment to reflect on this deeply personal loss and the life of a young man who carried the weight of a legendary name with grace and humility.
A Mother’s Grief
Lisa Marie Presley's heart is shattered. According to her representative, Roger Widynowski, speaking to People, she is "completely heartbroken, inconsolable, and beyond devastated." Yet, even in her immense sorrow, she’s trying to stay strong for her 11-year-old twins and her oldest daughter, Riley. The bond between Lisa and Benjamin was profound. “She adored that boy,” Widynowski shared. “He was the love of her life.”
Benjamin’s Legacy
Benjamin was the son of Lisa Marie and her ex-husband, Danny Keough, from their marriage between 1988 and 1994. Tragically, Benjamin’s life ended in a self-inflicted gunshot wound, as reported by TMZ. The news has left the entire family reeling. "The family is devastated," a source exclusively told Closer Weekly. "They’re all worried about Lisa now. The family is gathering together to support one another during this unimaginable time."
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The Final Hours
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department released a statement confirming that deputies responded to a home in Calabasas, California, following a "rescue response" call. Upon arrival, they found Benjamin suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper torso. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death is ongoing.
Mama Lion with cubs ❤️💙🖤🧡🦁😘 pic.twitter.com/UiYoceWHWN
— Lisa Marie Presley (@LisaPresley) June 20, 2019
A Legacy That Echoes Through Generations
Though Benjamin may have stayed out of the public eye, his resemblance to his grandfather, Elvis Presley, was undeniable. In a 2012 interview with CMT, Lisa Marie recalled how Ben would quietly captivate audiences wherever he went. "Ben does look so much like Elvis. He was at the Opry and was the quiet storm behind the stage," she reminisced. "Everybody turned around and looked when he was over there. Everyone was grabbing him for a photo because it was just uncanny." Benjamin even joined his siblings in a remake of his father’s timeless classic, "I Love You Because," leaving behind a musical legacy that will forever resonate with those who knew him.
A Bond Beyond Words
Lisa and Benjamin shared a special connection that transcended words. In 2009, they got matching tattoos—a Celtic eternity knot—to symbolize their eternal love and connection. A source close to the family told Closer, “Lisa was very close to Ben. That tattoo was a testament to their bond, a reminder of the love they shared despite the challenges life threw their way.”
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A Family Torn by Tragedy
This is not the first time tragedy has visited the Presley family. Elvis Presley’s sudden death in August 1977 at the age of 42 left an indelible mark on his loved ones. Letetia Henley Kirk, Elvis’s private nurse, spoke to Closer Weekly about her time with the King of Rock 'n' Roll. "He was not only my patient but a good friend. We shared many hours together," she reflected. "I saw the sadness and the happiness. I saw vulnerability. I was very fortunate [to have known him]. I wish there was something I could have done to make him a happier person."
Kirk first met Elvis in 1968 when she treated him for saddle sores at a Memphis medical clinic. His admiration for her "country ways" led to her hiring in 1972, where she moved her entire family to Graceland to care for him. "The world thinks he has everything, and yet the happiness isn’t there," Kirk revealed. "He was miserable because he’d gained so much weight. He knew he was not going to be able to perform like he wanted to."
A Struggle That Knew No Bounds
Despite Kirk’s dedication to helping Elvis adopt a healthier lifestyle, his battle with addiction persisted. "Prescription drugs came from everywhere," she explained. "His access to medications was overwhelming." The pressures of fame and the weight of expectation ultimately took their toll on the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Presley family during this incredibly difficult time. May they find solace in the memories of those they’ve lost and the love that binds them together.
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You are never alone.
