While cohabiting, the media often referred to Priscilla as Elvis’ “live-in Lolita.”
The musician’s manager was concerned that there would be a negative impact on his career if he continued to live with Priscilla without getting married, and pushed Elvis to propose.
Saving Herself for Marriage
As the two met when Priscilla was just a child, it should come as no surprise that the two weren't being physical with each other. Elvis is said to have valued Priscilla's purity and wanted things to stay that way until the two got married.
This didn’t mean Elvis stayed celibate, however, as he had numerous affairs during this time.
Elvis’ Affairs
While filming in Hollywood, Elvis would often have intimate relationships with his co-stars and other celebrities. He got away with it by making Priscilla stay at home in Memphis, often keeping her secluded while he worked.
When rumors of his affairs hit the press, his live-in girlfriend would question him about it but he always had a reasonable excuse. He would often claim that the rumors were put in the press to promote a movie or project of his.
Pressured Into It
The manager wasn't the only one pushing for marriage to happen. There is also speculation that Priscilla threatened to go to the press with intimate details about their relationship if he didn’t propose.
Her father also allegedly threatened to have Elvis charged for taking a minor across state lines for sexual purposes if he didn’t get down on one knee as he promised. Whatever his reason, Elvis ultimately proposed around Christmas in 1966.
Did He Even Want This?
There are disputing reports over the musician’s feelings about getting married. While some friends insisted that Elvis was excited to walk down the aisle, others claimed he was reluctant.
His cook, Alberta, even revealed that she walked in on Elvis crying about having to get married. When she asked him why he didn’t cancel it if it made him so upset, the singer allegedly said he didn't have a choice.