Riley Keough Honors Mother Lisa Marie Presley with Upcoming Memoir

Riley Keough has taken on the poignant task of completing her late mother Lisa Marie Presley’s memoir, a journey that reflects both the complexity of their relationship and the deep legacy left behind by the iconic singer. The memoir, titled From Here to the Great Unknown, is set to be released on October 8 and aims to provide a deeper insight into Lisa Marie’s life, particularly following her passing in January 2023 at the age of 54 due to complications from weight loss surgery.

In an exclusive interview with People, Keough shared her perspective on the memoir and the significance it holds. “Because my mother was Elvis Presley’s daughter, she was constantly talked about, argued over, and dissected,” the 35-year-old actress noted. “What she wanted to do in her memoir, and what I hope I’ve done in finishing it for her, is to go beneath the magazine headline idea of her and reveal the core of who she was.”

This project is particularly meaningful for Riley, who is grieving alongside her sisters, Finley Aaron Love Lockwood and Harper Vivienne Ann Lockwood. The family has faced significant loss, including the death of their brother, Benjamin Keough, who tragically passed away at the age of 27 in 2020. The memoir not only serves as a tribute to their mother but also as a way to connect with her legacy.

To capture the essence of Lisa Marie, Keough immersed herself in recordings of her mother. “The tapes are an incredible portrait of the force of nature that she was,” she explained. “Depending on the day and her mood, she can sound locked-in or distracted, vulnerable and open or annoyed and closed off, hopeful, angry, everything. You hear her in all her complications.” These recordings provided a raw and unfiltered glimpse into Lisa Marie’s multifaceted personality, allowing Keough to honor her mother’s truth.

In the interview, Keough expressed her desire for readers to gain a fuller understanding of Lisa Marie beyond the public persona. “To turn her into a three-dimensional human being: the best mother, a wild child, a fierce friend, an underrated artist—frank, funny, traumatized, joyous, grieving, everything that she was throughout her remarkable life,” she shared. “I want to give voice to my mother in a way that eluded her while she was alive.”

The memoir is expected to delve into the complexities of Lisa Marie’s life, exploring her journey as the daughter of one of music’s most legendary figures, her struggles with fame, and her role as a devoted mother. Keough aims to provide a nuanced portrayal that goes beyond the headlines, showcasing the woman behind the public image.

As the release date approaches, anticipation for From Here to the Great Unknown continues to build. Fans of Lisa Marie and readers alike are eager to engage with a narrative that promises to illuminate the challenges and triumphs of a woman who lived a life in the spotlight. Riley’s commitment to preserving her mother’s voice is evident, and her efforts to articulate Lisa Marie’s essence are commendable.

Through this memoir, Riley Keough not only honors her mother’s legacy but also creates a space for healing and remembrance. In sharing Lisa Marie’s story, she hopes to inspire others to recognize the complexities within their own loved ones, encouraging a deeper understanding of the human experience.

As the world prepares to read this intimate account, the emotional weight of the project resonates not just with Keough and her family but also with fans who have followed Lisa Marie’s journey over the years. With From Here to the Great Unknown, Riley Keough seeks to ensure that her mother’s legacy is remembered not just for her lineage but for her vibrant, multifaceted life.