FridayOL

The legal battle surrounding Elvis Presley's estate has taken a dramatic turn, with Priscilla Presley fiercely denying accusations of negligence and manipulation. A recent $50 million lawsuit filed by her former business partners alleges that Priscilla ignored warning signs regarding Lisa Marie Presley's declining health during the 2023 Golden Globes, ultimately contributing to her death in a calculated effort to seize control of Graceland.

Priscilla's attorney has issued a scathing response, dismissing the claims as “shameful” and “patently false.” The lawsuit, filed by Joel Gitomf and John Sheffer, claims they witnessed a concerning interaction between Priscilla and Lisa Marie at the Golden Globes, where Lisa Marie appeared visibly unwell. They allege that Priscilla disregarded these concerns and subsequently orchestrated events to gain control of Elvis Presley's estate, a valuable asset including Graceland, the iconic Memphis mansion.

According to the lawsuit, Gitomf and Sheffer were instrumental in helping Lisa Marie restructure her estate in 2021, ensuring that Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE) would be managed by a board of trustees, including Lisa Marie, herself, and a representative of the Presley estate. The restructuring was designed to prevent Priscilla from unilaterally controlling the estate.

However, the lawsuit claims that after Lisa Marie's death in January 2023, Priscilla bypassed the established trustees and attempted to install herself and others aligned with her interests. This, the plaintiffs allege, demonstrates a deliberate disregard for Lisa Marie's wishes and a calculated move to gain financial advantage.

The allegations are particularly sensitive given the profound grief surrounding Lisa Marie's passing. The lawsuit paints a picture of Priscilla as a ruthless figure willing to exploit her daughter's vulnerability for personal gain. Priscilla’s legal team is fighting back vigorously, claiming the lawsuit is a cynical attempt to profit from a tragic situation and tarnish Priscilla's reputation.

“These claims are not only baseless but also deeply offensive,” Priscilla’s attorney stated. “Priscilla loved Lisa Marie dearly and is devastated by her loss. To suggest that she would ever intentionally harm her daughter for financial gain is a cruel and malicious fabrication.”

The legal battle is expected to be lengthy and complex, with significant implications for the future of Elvis Presley's estate and the legacy of the Presley family. The court will need to examine the evidence presented by both sides and determine the validity of the claims regarding Priscilla's conduct and the circumstances surrounding Lisa Marie's death. The case highlights the often-fraught dynamics of family wealth and the potential for disputes to arise even within close-knit families, especially when significant assets are involved.