Elvis Presley's granddaughter Riley Keough discusses possible curse that follows her family

Riley Keough has spoken out against the idea that her family is plagued by a "curse," framing their struggles as challenges many families face.

During a live event at the Jerry Moss Theater in Los Angeles, the 35-year-old actress reflected on the losses of her grandfather Elvis Presley, mother Lisa Marie Presley, and brother Benjamin Keough, emphasizing the role of addiction and grief in their tragedies.

"I think the word 'curse' is used because my family is seen as this mythology," Riley said.

"But really, it's just very common things, like addiction. Everyone has loved somebody with addiction issues or lost someone tragically."

"The dream is that future generations won't struggle as much with addiction."

Riley's mother, Lisa Marie, died in January 2023 at 54 following cardiac arrest. Her brother Benjamin took his own life in 2020 at 27, a loss Riley believes deeply affected her mother.

The impact of loss on Lisa Marie Presley

Riley revealed during an Oprah Winfrey special that she knew her mother's life had taken a drastic turn after Benjamin's death.

"The moment my brother died, I thought, 'This is the end of her,'" Riley shared, noting their extremely close bond.

She compared Lisa Marie's relationship with Benjamin to that of Elvis Presley and his mother, Gladys.

Riley recounted feeling increasingly concerned for Lisa Marie in the weeks leading up to her death, describing moments of detachment and resignation. When Oprah asked if she suspected her mother was using drugs again, Riley dismissed the idea.

"It didn't feel like drugs. It felt like a tired person."

Lisa Marie was buried alongside her father and son in the meditation garden at Graceland, the Presley family estate. Riley admitted she finds it emotionally challenging to visit but feels comforted in moments of quiet reflection there.

In her posthumous memoir From Here to the Great Unknown, Lisa Marie shared her unconventional way of coping with Benjamin's death.

She kept his body at home for two months, using the time to process her grief and say goodbye. Riley, who completed the memoir after her mother's passing, described it as an extension of Lisa Marie's nurturing spirit.

"She just wanted to keep caring for him, even after he was gone," Riley explained.

Through her reflections, Riley hopes her family can heal and move toward a healthier future, free from the struggles of the past.