Elvis Presley’s Close Friends

Elvis Presley had several close friends throughout his life, and many of them played significant roles in his personal and professional journey. Here are some of Elvis’s close friends:

Red West: Red West was not only one of Elvis’s closest friends but also a bodyguard and occasional actor in some of Elvis’s movies. He was part of the “Memphis Mafia,” a group of friends and associates who were closely connected to Elvis.

Joe Esposito: Another member of the “Memphis Mafia,” Joe Esposito was a loyal friend and road manager to Elvis. He often accompanied Elvis on tours and was by his side for many years.

Marty Lacker: A part of the “Memphis Mafia,” Marty Lacker was a key figure in Elvis’s life, particularly during the 1960s. He played a role in various aspects of Elvis’s career, including his recordings.

George Klein: Known as “GK,” George Klein was Elvis’s high school friend who later became a radio personality. He maintained a close friendship with Elvis throughout his life.

Jerry Schilling: A long-time friend and member of the “Memphis Mafia,” Jerry Schilling was one of Elvis’s closest confidants. He remained connected to Elvis’s legacy even after his passing.

Charlie Hodge: Another member of the “Memphis Mafia,” Charlie Hodge was not only a close friend but also a backup singer and guitar player in Elvis’s band.

Larry Geller: A hairstylist and spiritual advisor, Larry Geller had a significant influence on Elvis’s spiritual journey and philosophical explorations.

Lamar Fike: Part of the “Memphis Mafia,” Lamar Fike was a close friend who accompanied Elvis on tours and shared many experiences with him.

Billy Smith: Elvis’s cousin, Billy Smith, was also a member of the “Memphis Mafia” and shared a close bond with Elvis from their childhood.

George Nichopoulos (Dr. Nick): While primarily known as Elvis’s personal physician, Dr. Nick was also a close friend who played a role in Elvis’s life during his health struggles.

Sonny West: Another member of the “Memphis Mafia,” Sonny West was a childhood friend of Elvis and remained a close companion throughout his life.

Jo Smith: The wife of Billy Smith, Jo Smith, was also a part of Elvis’s inner circle and maintained a close friendship with him.

Dr. George Nichopoulos (Dr. Nick): In addition to being Elvis’s physician, Dr. Nick was also a friend who had a presence in Elvis’s life for many years.

Donna Lewis: Donna Lewis was a close friend and secretary who worked for Elvis for several years, helping him with various aspects of his career.

Patsy Presley: Patsy Presley, Elvis’s distant cousin, was a part of his life from his early years and remained a friend who understood his roots.

Alan Fortas: Part of the “Memphis Mafia,” Alan Fortas was a childhood friend of Elvis who later became a part of his close circle.

Richard Davis: Also known as “Richie,” Richard Davis was a member of the “Memphis Mafia” who shared many experiences and travels with Elvis.

Barbara Hearn: Barbara Hearn was a close friend and member of Elvis’s inner circle, often referred to as “Sam Thompson’s girlfriend.”

George Barris: George Barris was a friend and photographer who captured several iconic images of Elvis throughout his career.

Larry Strickland: A member of the gospel group The Stamps Quartet, Larry Strickland, and his wife, Naomi, were close friends of Elvis and also performed with him on stage.

Alan “Hound Dog” Sams: A member of the “Memphis Mafia,” Alan Sams was a childhood friend of Elvis and later worked for him as a wardrobe assistant.

Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller: Songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller were close friends of Elvis and wrote some of his hit songs, including “Hound Dog” and “Jailhouse Rock.”

Larry Domasin: A child actor who appeared in some of Elvis’s movies, Larry Domasin formed a friendship with Elvis during their time on set.

Ed Parker: A martial artist and instructor, Ed Parker was Elvis’s karate teacher and close friend who shared his passion for martial arts.

Rex Mansfield: A member of the “Memphis Mafia,” Rex Mansfield was a friend and employee of Elvis, working in various capacities over the years.

Ronnie Tutt: As Elvis’s drummer in his backing band, Ronnie Tutt became a close friend and performed with Elvis during his later years.

Nick Adams: Actor Nick Adams was a close friend of Elvis during the 1960s and spent time with him in Hollywood.

Billy Stanley: The brother of Bobby Stanley, a musician in Elvis’s band, Billy Stanley also became a part of the “Memphis Mafia” and shared a close friendship with Elvis.

Linda Thompson: Actress and songwriter Linda Thompson had a romantic relationship with Elvis and remained a close friend after their breakup.

Felton Jarvis: As Elvis’s record producer, Felton Jarvis was not only a professional associate but also a close friend who played a role in shaping his sound.

25 Artists Similar to Elvis Presley