Elvis Presley’s career and life has become the stuff of legend, with his impact still being felt across music today.
After many years of development, delays and a pandemic to deal with, the Elvis biopic is finally out in cinemas around the world.
Starring Austin Butler, who spent years perfecting his role, in the titular role and directed by Baz Luhrmann, the film is set to be one of the biggest hits of the year.
It will break down The King’s rise to become the world’s biggest star and his eventual fall as he succumbs to addiction, overeating and his struggle with fame.
Much like the rest of his life, Elvis’ death is surrounded in mystery, though one thing is for certain: his life tragically ended in a gruesome way.
When did Elvis Presley die?
(Image: Getty Images)
Elvis’ last days were spent in his legendary Memphis mansion in Graceland.
On August 16, 1977, his girlfriend Ginger Alden walked into the master suite bathroom to find him lying unconscious on the floor.
She quickly called for an ambulance and he was taken to Baptist Memorial Hospital where attempts were made to revive him.
Sadly, at the age of 42, at 3.30pm that day he was pronounced dead, sending shockwaves around the world.
How did Elvis Presley die?
(Image: WireImage)
It appears Elvis died due to heart failure while on the toilet, with most experts now accepting that this was caused by his extreme rock and roll lifestyle.
More than anything, it was due to his continued drug addiction, with the star being prescribed a cocktail of medications including sedatives, opiates and barbiturates.
It wasn’t long before Dr George Nichopoulos aka Dr Nick, Elvis’ physician, was implicated in his death.
Eventually in 1980, his medical licence was revoked by the state of Tennessee due to overprescribing controlled substances.
In the charges, it was found that in the last 20 months of The King’s life, he was prescribed a staggering 12,000 pills, even carrying three suitcases with him when he toured and travelled.
Dr Nick later admitted to giving Elvis whatever he requested as he threatened to get them from another doctor or even use street drugs.
He was eventually charged with 11 felony counts of overprescribing drugs, though he was acquitted.
He kept his medical licence until 1995 when he was permanently suspended by the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
