Baz Luhrmann has a clear message he would convey to Elvis Presley, given the chance. The director, responsible for the films “EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert” and the upcoming biopic “Elvis,” recently shared his thoughts in a podcast interview with Jermaine D’Vauz.
“If he was here in this room, what would it be [that you would say]?” D’Vauz asked.
“I think I’d say to him, ‘Elvis, you’ve got to go on tour and I’m going to help you do it,'” Luhrmann replied.
Luhrmann’s sentiment stems from Presley’s inability to embark on a world tour during his lifetime, reportedly due to a decision made by his manager Colonel Tom Parker. The manager, an undocumented immigrant, feared that leaving the U.S. would jeopardize Presley’s ability to return. As a result, Presley spent his final years performing in Las Vegas before his tragic death at the age of 42 in 1977.
Luhrmann reflects on the unique status that Elvis held in the music industry, acknowledging that the iconic singer lived in a rarified space where few others could reach. He expresses a desire to have helped Presley navigate the challenges he faced, particularly as his life took a self-destructive turn.
“In a crazy way, I’m taking Elvis on the world tour he never had,” Luhrmann remarked.
The film “EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert” is currently showing in theaters for a limited 1-week IMAX engagement before a nationwide release on Friday, Feb. 27.
In a world where Elvis Presley remains a legendary figure, Baz Luhrmann’s imagined conversation with the late icon offers a glimpse into what could have been. His desire to guide Presley towards a fulfilling world tour serves as a poignant reflection on the singer’s enduring impact on music history.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.