Elvis Presley’s Greatest Love Makes ‘Bittersweet’ Graceland Return for Elvis Week

As Elvis Presley fans gather at Graceland to mark the emotional conclusion of Elvis Week, one of the King’s most iconic former flames made a poignant pilgrimage back to the legendary Memphis estate.

Linda Thompson returned to the home where she once lived alongside Elvis Presley, describing her homecoming as a deeply “bittersweet” journey filled with cherished memories and enduring love for the late icon.

The songwriter and former actress was given special access to the rooms she and Presley lived in during her visit. Typically, those quarters are roped off to visitors, where fans can only stand on the perimeter of and look inside.

Stepping back into the private living quarters, where she helped design key areas of the mansion during their four-year relationship in the 1970s, Thompson reflected on the quiet, personal moments behind the public spectacle of Elvis’ fame.

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In a caption of an Instagram photo slideshow, Thompson wrote, “Elvis Week in Memphis at Graceland is both a celebratory occasion and a somber one. We remember the man who changed not only music, but so many of our lives as well.”

She said of the poignant pilgrimage, “Coming back to the home where I lived for 4 1/2 years with Elvis is bittersweet, with so many incredible memories. I am always honored to be here in the company of others who revere and love Elvis.”

The images captured Thompson standing in Graceland’s den, otherwise known as the Jungle Room. She also posed inside the kitchen, near the living room, the hallway leading to the upstairs suite, and the Meditation Garden.

There were also photos with singer Tony Orlando, Sweet Inspirations vocalist Estelle Brown, musician Larry Gatlin, Elvis historian Tom Brown, friend Jerry Schilling, and Linda’s brother Sam Thompson. They were guests during Elvis Week, recalling how their lives intersected with the King of Rock and Roll.

Fans were thrilled with Thompson’s intimate photos. They shared their remarks in the post’s comments section.

“The memories that must come to you when you are there. I get a lump in my throat visiting Graceland, so I can imagine it’s emotional for you. So, thanks for celebrating him with all of us!! Elvis left a beautiful legacy with his spirit and love. I’m very glad that you’re a part of celebrating his legacy – you were the lady of the manor at Graceland for many years.”

Another penned, “You make the occasion what it is, Linda!! You are such a big part of his life and legacy!! Thank you for your selfless generosity in sharing stories with the fans!!”

Thompson lived with Presley from 1972 through late 1976, for four and a half years. Per her book, A Little Thing Called Life: On Loving Elvis Presley, Bruce Jenner, and Songs in Between, she said she would always love the King of Rock and Roll.  

“I did not break up with him because I didn’t love him anymore. I’ll probably love him till the day I die,” she said, per The Commercial Appeal. “In fact, I’m sure I will.”

Thompson continued, “There’s always a place in my heart for him. But I wanted more for my life. I wanted to be a mother. Live a more normal life.”

Linda Thompson’s visit stood out as a clear highlight of Elvis Week, an annual celebration honoring Elvis Presley’s life and legacy at his iconic Graceland home. The memorial week culminates with the solemn candlelight vigil on August 16, marking 49 years since the music legend passed away at age 42.

Related: Elvis Presley’s Longtime Love Shares Rare Photos of Their Private Life Together