Who inherited Elvis money? This question has intrigued fans and the public alike since the legendary Elvis Presley’s death in 1977. The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll left behind a vast fortune, and the story of how his money was distributed has been a topic of much speculation and debate. In this article, we will explore the individuals who inherited Elvis Presley’s money and the complexities surrounding the estate.
The first person to inherit Elvis Presley’s money was his father, Vernon Presley. After the singer’s death, Vernon was named the executor of Elvis’s estate. He received a significant portion of Elvis’s assets, including a home in Memphis, Tennessee, and a substantial amount of cash. Vernon was also responsible for managing the rest of Elvis’s estate, which included various investments, properties, and royalties from the singer’s music.
However, Vernon’s role as executor of the estate was not without controversy. Many fans and family members accused him of mismanaging the estate and taking advantage of Elvis’s legacy. In 1980, Vernon was removed as executor, and a new administrator, William S. Zollars, was appointed to oversee the estate.
Under Zollars’ management, the estate was divided among Elvis’s surviving family members. The primary beneficiaries were his daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, and his sister, Priscilla Presley. Lisa Marie received the largest share of the estate, which included Elvis’s home in Graceland, a substantial cash sum, and a portion of the royalties from his music. Priscilla Presley, Elvis’s former wife, also received a significant portion of the estate, as well as the rights to use Elvis’s name and likeness for commercial purposes.
Despite the generous payouts, the story of who inherited Elvis money does not end there. Over the years, various legal battles and disputes have arisen over the estate. In 1993, Lisa Marie Presley filed a lawsuit against her father, claiming that he had mismanaged the estate and taken advantage of her as a minor. The lawsuit was settled out of court, with Lisa Marie receiving an additional $45 million.
Another notable development in the estate’s history was the 2005 sale of Graceland. The mansion, which had been the centerpiece of Elvis’s estate, was sold to a group of investors for $45 million. Lisa Marie Presley, who had been living in Graceland since her father’s death, was not allowed to purchase the property and was forced to move out.
Today, the estate of Elvis Presley continues to generate significant revenue through licensing, merchandise, and music sales. While the initial beneficiaries have received substantial sums of money, the ongoing management and distribution of the estate remain a subject of interest and debate. The story of who inherited Elvis money is a complex one, reflecting the legacy of a musical icon and the challenges of managing a vast fortune left behind by a legend.
