Jacob Elordi, known for his roles in films such as “The Kissing Booth” and the TV series “Euphoria,” recently revealed that he didn’t know much about Elvis Presley before taking on the role of the legendary music figure in the upcoming film “Priscilla.” Elordi made this revelation during his appearance on “The Tonight Show” with host Jimmy Fallon.
The actor admitted that his knowledge of Elvis was limited to the animated film “Lilo & Stitch,” in which the character Lilo, portrayed by Daveigh Chase, is a fan of Presley and tries to convert her adopted pet alien, Stitch, into a devoted fan as well. The film’s soundtrack features several of Presley’s famous songs, including “Burning Love,” “Suspicious Minds,” and “Hound Dog.” Elordi jokingly added that his exposure to Elvis through “Lilo & Stitch” was significant.
Elordi also discussed the experience of taking on such an iconic figure as Elvis Presley. He described it as a “little bit terrifying” and admitted that he didn’t feel confident during his initial audition for the film, which is directed by Sofia Coppola. “Sofia had sent me these sides that said Elvis, and I kinda just was like, ‘There’s no chance that this is happening,'” Elordi recalled. He then watched a clip of Presley when he returned from the Army in Germany, practiced the lines for around 15 minutes, and shot two takes without expecting much.
Elordi revealed that he was unsure if he captured Presley’s voice correctly in the audition. However, he was pleasantly surprised when Coppola liked what she saw and ultimately cast him in the role opposite Cailee Spaeny, who will portray Priscilla Presley. When Fallon asked if Elordi was nervous about working with the acclaimed director of “Lost in Translation,” he replied that it was simply exciting and described the experience as “pure bliss.”
The actor also shared his approach to the role, stating that he tried to approach it as if he were making a relationship drama like “Blue Valentine” without the Elvis or Priscilla elements. Elordi aimed to focus on the dynamics between the characters and the emotional depth of their relationship, rather than solely relying on the legendary status of Elvis Presley.
Fans of Elvis Presley and those interested in his personal life and relationships will have the opportunity to learn more about his relationship with Priscilla through the film “Priscilla.” The movie, directed by Sofia Coppola, will explore the life of Priscilla Presley and her connection with Elvis. It is set to be released in limited theaters on October 27th.
In conclusion, Jacob Elordi’s portrayal of Elvis Presley in the upcoming film “Priscilla” is a significant departure for the actor, who initially had limited knowledge of the legendary music figure. Elordi’s audition process and working with director Sofia Coppola were both nerve-wracking and exciting experiences for him. The actor aimed to bring depth and emotion to the role, focusing on the relationship dynamics between the characters rather than solely relying on the iconic status of Elvis Presley. Fans will have the opportunity to see Elordi’s portrayal when “Priscilla” is released in limited theaters on October 27th.