His explosive chemistry with Ann-Margret shone through in Viva Las Vegas (1964), particularly during their amusing duet “The Lady Loves Me.”
However, not everything went as easily as it appeared. Hidden bloopers and undiscovered blunders remain throughout the film. Curious about what you may have missed? Let’s plunge in!
Viva Las Vegas went down in history as Elvis’ highest-grossing film. Elvis plays Lucky Jackson, a dedicated race car racer seeking triumph in Las Vegas, while Ann-Margret shines as Rusty Martin, the lively dancer who wins his heart.
Their searing connection radiated both on and off screen, but there were amusing goofs, odd missteps, and unexpected moments that even die-hard fans may have missed.
Ann-Margret above Elvis Presley?
It’s hard to believe, but Ann-Margret was so famous in the mid-1960s that several theaters advertised her ahead of Elvis! This shows how popular the Swedish-born star was at the time.
Why was Viva Las Vegas so popular?
This film was unforgettable thanks to Elvis and Ann-Margret’s electric chemistry, a lively soundtrack, and vibrant technicolor visuals that showcased both the stars and the neon-lit magic of Vegas.
The First Meeting
Ann-Margret, one of Elvis’ most important women, first met him in July 1963 at the Radio Recorders studios in Hollywood. They were introduced on an empty MGM soundstage with just a piano—and flames ignited.
Ann-Margret outshines them all.
Ann-Margret’s tremendous enthusiasm had overwhelmed her past co-stars—until Elvis. He matched her charisma beat for beat, resulting in a collaboration she later called her best yet.
Elvis wanted to marry Ann-Margret.
Ann-Margret claimed in her novel My Story that Elvis had a dream about marrying her. Their dates frequently included calm periods viewing the city while engaged in conversation.
Why didn’t it happen?
Their passionate bond was evident, yet they were too similar. Elvis, with his traditional ideas, saw Priscilla as a better fit. Despite their separation, Ann-Margret and Elvis remained close, exchanging letters for years.
Hidden Gems of Viva Las Vegas
Speaking of recognizable names, did you know that Glen Campbell, the singer and actor, played guitar on both “What’d I Say” and the title track? Don’t miss Red West, Elvis’ real-life friend, who appears several times throughout the film in uncredited roles. Keep an eye out for him in diverse personalities.
Ann-Margret’s Honest Confession about Elvis
Ann-Margret retains her magnetic vitality even at the age of 83. She was recently accepted into UNLV’s College of Fine Arts Hall of Fame, demonstrating her enduring charm. In her views on her time with Elvis, she’s never been bashful about her feelings for the King—and who can blame her?
Even decades later, Ann-Margret continues to reveal interesting behind-the-scenes stories from Viva Las Vegas, ensuring that the film’s charm lives on for future generations of fans. In a recent interview with the Las Vegas Review-Journal, she discussed her special link with Elvis, providing fans with new insights and a personal viewpoint on their relationship that they had not previously heard.
