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Elvis Presley | Elvis Presley's Graceland Mansion | Source: Getty Images | facebook.com/ElvisPresleysGraceland
Elvis Presley | Elvis Presley's Graceland Mansion | Source: Getty Images | facebook.com/ElvisPresleysGraceland

Elvis Presley Was Found Dead in Bathroom of House with 'Secret' Passageway — Photos of Graceland Mansion Now

Milly Wanjiku Ndirangu
May 22, 2024
04:08 A.M.
  • What was the secret that Elvis Presley hid in his upstairs sanctuary at Graceland, where he died of a mysterious cause in 1977?
  • How has his Memphis mansion been preserved as a tribute to his life and legacy?
  • Graceland holds mysteries and memories of Presley, where visitors still feel the presence and legacy of the King of Rock and Roll.
  • Reports have now surfaced that Graceland is facing a foreclosure auction.
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Elvis Presley strolling the grounds of his Graceland estate circa 1957 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley strolling the grounds of his Graceland estate circa 1957 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley, widely hailed as the King of Rock and Roll, met a tragic end on August 16, 1977, at his residence in Graceland, located in Memphis, Tennessee. He was found unresponsive in his bathroom, where he had collapsed.

Elvis Presley's Graceland Mansion circa 1970 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley's Graceland Mansion circa 1970 | Source: Getty Images

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He was only 42 years old. His death shocked the world and left millions of fans heartbroken. But what was the secret that Presley hid in his upstairs sanctuary, where no one but his family and closest friends could enter?

Elvis Presley with his ex-wife Priscilla Beaulieu and infant daughter Lisa Marie Presley in Memphis, Tennessee on February 5, 1968 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley with his ex-wife Priscilla Beaulieu and infant daughter Lisa Marie Presley in Memphis, Tennessee on February 5, 1968 | Source: Getty Images

To this day, the hidden treasures and personal possessions that Presley kept in his mansion have been preserved exactly as he left them.

We will see some photos of Graceland Mansion today, where you can still feel the presence and legacy of the legendary singer.

Elvis Presley's living room at Graceland as seen during Elvis Week in Memphis, Tennessee on August 12, 2002 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley's living room at Graceland as seen during Elvis Week in Memphis, Tennessee on August 12, 2002 | Source: Getty Images

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The enigmatic end of Presley unfolded when Ginger Alden, his girlfriend, found his lifeless body on the bathroom floor of his Graceland home.

He was found with his pajama bottoms around his ankles. Alden shared, "The tip of his tongue was clenched between his teeth, and his face was blotchy."

The entryway to Graceland, the residence of the deceased Elvis Presley in Memphis, Tennessee, on October 3, 2016 | Source: Getty Images

The entryway to Graceland, the residence of the deceased Elvis Presley in Memphis, Tennessee, on October 3, 2016 | Source: Getty Images

There still are theories about Presley's cause of death, with the spotlight on two prominent narratives.

Dan Warlick, who was serving as the chief investigator for the Tennessee Office of the State Chief Medical Examiner, proposed the theory that Presley's demise occurred during a moment of strain on the toilet.

Photo of Elvis Presley's aircraft, the "Lisa Marie" | Source: Getty Images

Photo of Elvis Presley's aircraft, the "Lisa Marie" | Source: Getty Images

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This was attributed to chronic constipation, a condition resulting from years of prescription drug abuse and a diet rich in fat and cholesterol, ultimately leading to what medical experts term Valsalva's maneuver.

However, a dissenting narrative emerged, suggesting a drug overdose as the culprit. The 1994 reopening of the investigation brought forth coroner Joseph Davis, who challenged the overdose theory.

Elvis Presley poses for a promotional portrait | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley poses for a promotional portrait | Source: Getty Images

According to Davis, had it been an overdose, Presley would have slipped into a sedated state, crawling toward the door to seek help.

Dr. Forest Tennant, a distinguished California physician, introduces a compelling theory based on a significant clue: the widespread deterioration of Presley's organs.

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Tennant traces this back to a severe head injury in 1967, when Presley tripped over a television cord, knocking himself unconscious in a bathtub. According to Tennant, the gravity of this injury prompted a progressive autoimmune inflammatory disorder.

The dislodged brain tissue entered the bloodstream, triggering hypogammaglobulinemia—a disorder wreaking havoc on Presley's immune system.

Elvis Presley, circa 1956 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley, circa 1956 | Source: Getty Images

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While the medical understanding of autoimmune conditions was limited in Presley's time, today, they are recognized as potential catalysts for the array of symptoms he exhibited. He suffered from organ maladies, obesity, chronic pain, and exhibited irrational behavior.

Elvis Presley's home, Graceland in May 2002 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley's home, Graceland in May 2002 | Source: Getty Images

Garry Rodgers, a retired homicide detective and forensic coroner, suggests that the cause of Presley's death might be traced back to a heart attack triggered by both heart disease and drug use.

This, he theorizes, could be linked to an autoimmune response sparked by the critical brain injury Presley suffered in 1967.

Elvis Presley, circa 1965 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley, circa 1965 | Source: Getty Images

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For almost five decades, the Presley family has guarded the details surrounding Presley's demise, concealing the autopsy report and igniting public fascination. The sealed autopsy results are slated for release in 2027.

Meanwhile, as the mystery persists, Presley's memory lives on. Presley's Memphis mansion, Graceland, his home from 1957 until he took his final bow in 1977, stands as a lasting testament to the life of the King of Rock and Roll.

Maintained by dedicated employees, the mansion, revealed in a 2015 interview to be cleaned three times a week with a deep scrub on Tuesdays, remains in pristine condition, a living tribute to the music icon.

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Riley Keough and Lana Del Rey photographed at Graceland during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Riley Keough and Lana Del Rey photographed at Graceland during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

The hallowed mansion has evolved into a sacred site since his passing and a popular tourist attraction in Memphis, Tennessee, drawing about 600,000 Presley enthusiasts annually.

Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

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Since opening its doors to the public in 1982, Graceland has hosted several events to celebrate Presley's life and legacy and entertain his fans from around the world.

Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

The Graceland Christmas tour, eclipsed only by Elvis Week in August, becomes a captivating spectacle, immersing fans in the singer's world.

Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

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During the period from mid-November to early January, guests have the opportunity to partake in special holiday tours of Graceland Mansion and its surrounding grounds. The entire estate is adorned with a festive display of lights, ornaments, and seasonal decorations.

Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Angie Marchese, the vice president of archives and exhibits at Graceland, fondly reminisces about Presley's fondness for Christmas, emphasizing its essential role in the mansion's allure.

Kacey Musgrave posing in Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Kacey Musgrave posing in Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

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With over 30 years of experience at Graceland, Marchese details how the staff delved into Presley's Christmas traditions during the early 1990s.

Lainey Wilson posing in Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Lainey Wilson posing in Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Presley had his own traditions, such as changing the drapes to red and throwing tinsel at the tree. Hidden within Graceland lies a downstairs storage haven next to the TV room.

Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

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Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley's mansion during Christmas at Graceland - Season 1 | Source: Getty Images

Behind the unassuming blue door resides Presley's record collection and Christmas decorations, patiently awaiting the festive season.

Elvis Presley's storage room entrance in his Graceland mansion from a video dated February 9, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's storage room entrance in his Graceland mansion from a video dated February 9, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's Graceland mansion decorated for Christmas from a video dated February 9, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's Graceland mansion decorated for Christmas from a video dated February 9, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

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Elvis Presley's storage room in his Graceland mansion from a video dated February 9, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's storage room in his Graceland mansion from a video dated February 9, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

In upholding his cherished Christmas traditions, Graceland maintains blue drapes on the main floor year-round, transitioning to vibrant red during the festive holiday season.

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Original drapes, found in excellent condition, are rehung annually, providing a tangible connection to Presley's residency.

As per the singer's desires, Graceland undergoes a magical transformation into a winter wonderland around Thanksgiving, resonating with the joyful spirit of the holiday season.

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However, Graceland also holds some secrets closed to the public, such as the hidden staircase and the upstairs rooms where Presley spent his final moments.

There is also a "secret" stairway used by Presley to move discreetly between the mansion's upstairs and downstairs levels. Closed off to visitors, this hidden passage adds more intrigue to the Graceland experience.

Elvis Presley's secret staircase in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 14, 2015 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's secret staircase in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 14, 2015 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

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Elvis Presley's secret staircase in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated March 22, 2023 | Source: youtube.com/@officialfuninthesouth

Elvis Presley's secret staircase in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated March 22, 2023 | Source: youtube.com/@officialfuninthesouth

Elvis Presley's secret staircase in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated March 22, 2023 | Source: youtube.com/@officialfuninthesouth

Elvis Presley's secret staircase in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated March 22, 2023 | Source: youtube.com/@officialfuninthesouth

A chandelier hanging over the landing on Elvis Presley's secret staircase in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 14, 2015 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

A chandelier hanging over the landing on Elvis Presley's secret staircase in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 14, 2015 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

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Presley's parents' bathroom is adorned in light pink, lilac, and purple. It features a unique wallpaper design—a poodle playing with a ball.

Elvis Presley's parents' bathroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated March 22, 2023 | Source: youtube.com/@officialfuninthesouth

Elvis Presley's parents' bathroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated March 22, 2023 | Source: youtube.com/@officialfuninthesouth

Elvis Presley's parents' bathroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated March 22, 2023 | Source: youtube.com/@officialfuninthesouth

Elvis Presley's parents' bathroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated March 22, 2023 | Source: youtube.com/@officialfuninthesouth

Inside the bedroom, a king-size bed boasts a purple velvet headboard and bedspread, complemented by gold-fringed purple velvet drapes and white sheers.

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Elvis Presley's parents' bedroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' bedroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' bedroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' bedroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' bedroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' bedroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

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Elvis Presley's parents' bedroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' bedroom in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Presley's animal-themed man cave, dubbed the Jungle Room, is a highlight of Graceland tours.

The room, adorned with an enormous built-in rock waterfall, green shag carpet, and eclectic furnishings, stands as a quirky testament to Presley's eccentric taste.

Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

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Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

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Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

Elvis Presley's parents' Jungle Room in his Graceland Mansion from a video dated October 18, 2016 | Source: youtube.com/@VisitGraceland

The tour concludes at the Meditation Garden, where Presley and family members find their eternal rest.

Elvis Presley, his parents Vernon and Gladys Presley, and his grandmother Minnie Mae Presley's burial sites in "Meditation Garden" at Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee on October 3, 2016 | Source: Getty Images

Elvis Presley, his parents Vernon and Gladys Presley, and his grandmother Minnie Mae Presley's burial sites in "Meditation Garden" at Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee on October 3, 2016 | Source: Getty Images

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Millions of fans from across the globe make a pilgrimage to Graceland, paying their respects to the man who forever changed the music landscape.

An arrangement of candles spelling out "Elvis" beside a chalk depiction of a guitar during the 30th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death in Graceland on August 15, 2007 | Source: Getty Images

An arrangement of candles spelling out "Elvis" beside a chalk depiction of a guitar during the 30th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death in Graceland on August 15, 2007 | Source: Getty Images

In every nook and cranny, Graceland preserves not just history but a profound connection to the soul of Presley. Now, this iconic property is at the heart of a big story. The estate is about to be sold at an auction, and this news is causing a stir among Presley's family and fans worldwide.

A legal notice was made public earlier this month. It says that Graceland will be auctioned off on May 23 at the Shelby County Courthouse. It is to be auctioned along with the land it sits on. This was reported by WREG-TV News in a since-deleted announcement.

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Riley Keough, Presley's oldest granddaughter, is not letting this happen without a fight. She's 34, an actress, and she's complaining the auction is unfair. She's managed to get a court order to stop the auction for now, and there will be a big court hearing about it on Wednesday.

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The whole issue resulted from a legal document that Keough's mom, Lisa Marie Presley, signed in 2018. This document was intended to secure a loan amounting to $3.8 million, with Graceland pledged as collateral. It was allegedly facilitated by Naussany Investments and Private Lending, a firm based in Missouri.

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Filed on May 15 in the Shelby County Chancery Court, Keough's lawsuit casts doubts on the authenticity of the loan. She asserts that her mother never engaged in financial dealings with Naussany Investments. The suit boldly denounces the documents as forgeries, questioning the veracity of her late mother's signatures.

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To make things even more complicated, the lawsuit says that the company, Naussany Investments, might not even exist. And the person who was supposed to have confirmed her mom's signature says they never did that or even met her.

Graceland's future might be uncertain, but it remains a powerful reminder of Presley's legacy. No matter what happens next, Graceland will remain a treasured tribute to Presley's life. It holds the story of his incredible journey and the unforgettable mark his music has left on the world.

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