Elvis' Director Baz Luhrmann Talks Being 'Forever Linked' To Lisa Marie Presley's Family

Baz Luhrmann, the Australian film director known for his work on the biopic, "Elvis," is reflecting on his relationship with the late Lisa Marie Presley two months after her passing. 

As fans would recall, LMP suffered a cardiac arrest in her home in Calabasas, California, leading her to depart this earth at 54 on January 12, 2023.

At the 95th Academy Awards — a major award show the "Elvis" cast would attend without LMP — Luhrmann, who feels forever connected to her and her family, honored her memory.

During Luhrmann's appearance on the champagne-colored carpet at the 2023 Oscars, he got candid about his relationship with the deceased and her family.

Recalling a memorable period he spent with the Presleys in Graceland, he told Entertainment Tonight,  "There was a moment before Lisa passed so shockingly and tragically, where once the family had seen the film, we became embraced by the family, and I mean we were having barbecues and cocktails in the jungle room."

The writer added, "I feel forever we will be linked to that family and part of it. We will be connected to them forever."

LMP passed away mere days after her appearance at the 2023 Golden Globes with her mother, Priscilla Presley, alongside Luhrmann and Austin Butler. She was an outspoken supporter of the 60-year-old's film and Butler's remarkable depiction of her father, the iconic Elvis Presley.

Since the release of "Elvis," it has gained numerous accolades, including Butler's first Oscar nomination, which he dedicated to Lisa Marie during an interview. According to The Blast, the 31-year-old appeared on "Today With Hoda And Jenna" hours after his nomination for Best Actor was announced.

He was asked how he felt about the accolade since the film was based on Elvis and his family, including the late songstress whom he bonded deeply with. "It's sort of a bittersweet moment right now," he confessed, referring to LMP. "Because I think of how much I wish she was here right now to get to celebrate with me."

Butler further spoke of how he felt about her father, revealing that he had a similar feeling and wished the duo was alive to witness the moments. 

Although he claimed it was "sort of strange to celebrate at a time of such deep grief," he also believed it was a way to honor Lisa Marie.

At the time of LMP's passing, it was reported that the emergency personnel tried to perform CPR on her and administer epinephrine after the cardiac arrest. She was then rushed to the West Hills Hospital and Medical Center but did not make it, leading her mother to confirm her death in a heart-wrenching statement.

"It is with a heavy heart that I must share the devastating news that my beautiful daughter Lisa Marie has left us. She was the most passionate, strong, and loving woman I have ever known."

Priscilla added a request for privacy as the family coped with "this profound loss" before appreciating fans for their love and prayers.

Shortly after, the "Elvis" cast and team, who were very close to the musician when she was alive, paid tribute to her with touching statements, expressing their grief. Butler revealed that his heart was "completely shattered" for LMP's children and mother due to the unfortunate loss; still, he voiced his gratitude for spending time with the singer, which he would forever cherish.

He further said he was "lucky enough to be near her bright light," and her warmth, love, and authenticity will always be remembered.

At the same time, Luhrmann took to social media with a heartfelt message noting that the "Dirty Laundry" singer's "sudden, shocking loss has devastated people all around the world." He also sent affection and prayers to her surviving family, adding that LMP's "warmth, smile, and love" will be missed. 

Similarly, Tom Hanks, who acted as Colonel Tom Parker, released a joint statement with his wife, Rita Wilson, conveying their heartbreak upon hearing the tragic news.

The couple stated, "A mother should never have to lose a child. Lisa Marie lost her precious son Benjamin, Priscilla lost her only daughter. It's too much, sending love to family, prayers for peace and strength."