Lisa Marie Presley, the only daughter of the legendary Elvis Presley, passed away at the age of 54 following a sudden cardiac arrest at her home in Los Angeles. The devastating news of her death sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, prompting heartfelt tributes from fans, friends, and former loved ones—including actor Nicolas Cage, who was briefly married to Presley in the early 2000s.
Sudden Loss of a Musical Legacy
Lisa Marie Presley was rushed to a Los Angeles hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest at her Calabasas residence on January 12, 2023. Despite efforts by emergency personnel to revive her, she passed away later that day, leaving behind a profound legacy as both a singer-songwriter and a prominent figure in pop culture history.
Presley’s final public appearance occurred just days earlier at the Golden Globe Awards, where she supported actor Austin Butler for his portrayal of her father in Baz Luhrmann’s biopic Elvis. Presley looked visibly emotional as she praised Butler’s performance, which had received critical acclaim. Her sudden passing came as a shock to many who had just seen her in good spirits during the event.
Nicolas Cage’s Heartfelt Response
Following the announcement of Lisa Marie Presley’s death, actor Nicolas Cage issued a statement expressing his grief and paying tribute to his former wife. In his message, Cage recalled Presley’s vibrant personality and infectious laugh, stating that “Lisa had the greatest laugh of anyone I ever met. She lit up every room, and I am heartbroken.”
Cage also shared a touching thought about her reunion with her son, Benjamin Keough, who died by suicide in 2020 at the age of 27. “I find some solace believing she is reunited with her son Benjamin,” Cage added, referencing the immense loss Presley endured with the passing of her only son.
A Brief Yet Public Marriage
Lisa Marie Presley and Nicolas Cage began dating in 2001 and had a whirlwind romance that attracted significant media attention. They tied the knot in August 2002, but their marriage was short-lived, lasting only about three months. The couple officially filed for divorce in November of the same year.
While the pair largely kept the details of their relationship private, Cage was known for his deep admiration for Elvis Presley, which added a unique dynamic to his relationship with Lisa Marie. In later interviews, Presley acknowledged the intensity of their connection, stating that their bond was both passionate and turbulent.
Cage, for his part, rarely spoke publicly about the relationship. When asked about their divorce, he simply said, “I did not talk about the marriage and I am not going to talk about the divorce. But I loved her,” according to previous reports from Entertainment Tonight.
Other Tributes and Reactions
Lisa Marie Presley was remembered not only by her former husband but also by many in the entertainment industry and her close family and friends. Michael Lockwood, her ex-husband and the father of her twin daughters, also released a statement through his attorney following the tragedy.
Lockwood emphasized the emotional impact on their daughters and his commitment to supporting them through their grief. “Michael had been hoping for a speedy and complete recovery because her children needed her. It is very sad it didn’t turn out that way,” said his attorney, Joe Yanny. “Michael’s world has been turned on its ear. He is with both of his daughters now.”
Lisa Marie is survived by her three daughters: Riley Keough and twins Finley and Harper Lockwood.
A Life in the Public Eye
Born into one of the most iconic families in music history, Lisa Marie Presley spent her entire life in the spotlight. Despite the weight of her father’s legendary status, she carved out her own path as a musician and public figure. Her music, including albums like To Whom It May Concern and Now What, resonated with fans and showcased her emotional depth and personal struggles.
Presley was also known for her philanthropic work, including her support of charitable organizations related to homelessness, addiction recovery, and child welfare. She often used her platform to advocate for mental health awareness, especially after the tragic loss of her son.
A Life Marked by Tragedy and Resilience
Lisa Marie Presley faced numerous personal challenges throughout her life. In addition to the public scrutiny that came with being Elvis Presley’s only child, she experienced multiple high-profile marriages and divorces. She was married four times—first to musician Danny Keough, then to pop icon Michael Jackson, actor Nicolas Cage, and finally to guitarist Michael Lockwood.
Her son Benjamin Keough’s death in 2020 was a devastating blow, and Presley frequently spoke about the grief she endured following the tragedy. In her final years, she remained committed to her family and her advocacy work, often appearing at public events to honor her father’s legacy and raise awareness for causes close to her heart.
Remembering Lisa Marie Presley
Lisa Marie Presley will be remembered as a woman who lived a life filled with both extraordinary fame and deep personal pain. Despite the many hardships she faced, she remained resilient and continued to contribute meaningfully to music, family, and philanthropy.
Her death leaves a significant void not only in her family but also in the broader cultural landscape. As the daughter of Elvis Presley, she carried the legacy of an American icon, but she was also much more than that—an artist, a mother, and a voice for those struggling with grief and personal loss.
Her fans, family, and former partners, including Nicolas Cage, continue to mourn her passing while celebrating her enduring legacy.
