Riley Keough Reveals Lisa Marie Presley’s Heartbreaking Struggle After Benjamin’s Death

The tragic loss of Lisa Marie Presley, daughter of the legendary Elvis Presley, has left the world mourning. Her death, which occurred just three years after the devastating suicide of her son, Benjamin Keough, is a poignant reminder of the toll that grief can take on one’s health. In a heartfelt interview, Riley Keough, Lisa Marie’s daughter, opened up about the immense emotional strain her mother endured after Benjamin’s passing and how it ultimately contributed to her untimely death.

The Heartbreaking Loss of Lisa Marie Presley

A Family Tragedy Unfolds

Lisa Marie Presley passed away at the age of 54 due to complications from a small-bowel obstruction, which developed following bariatric surgery several years prior. However, according to Riley Keough, the real cause was far more profound — her mother died of a broken heart. This emotional narrative sheds light on the harrowing impact of her son’s death on Lisa Marie.

Riley Keough Speaks Out

In a recent email interview for Khabrfactory’s cover story, Riley Keough, now 35, discussed her mother’s struggle with grief following Benjamin’s suicide at the age of 27 in 2020. She described how Lisa Marie tried to remain strong for her and her younger twin sisters, Finley and Harper, but the emotional pain was overwhelming.

A Family Torn Apart by Grief

Benjamin Keough’s death was a seismic event for the Presley family. His untimely demise left Lisa Marie grappling with an unbearable sorrow. Riley shared that despite her mother’s efforts to stay resilient, the weight of her grief was palpable. Lisa Marie’s health began to decline, leading to the complications that ultimately took her life.

The Unseen Toll of Grief

The Psychological and Physical Impact

Grief is not just an emotional experience; it can have severe physical consequences. The connection between intense emotional distress and physical health is well-documented, with studies showing that significant grief can weaken the immune system, cause heart problems, and even lead to premature death. For Lisa Marie, the loss of her son was a burden too heavy to bear.

The ‘Broken Heart Syndrome’

Often referred to as “broken heart syndrome,” the condition known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy can be triggered by extreme emotional stress. While this wasn’t the official cause of Lisa Marie’s death, the metaphorical “broken heart” she suffered from played a crucial role in her declining health.

Lisa Marie’s Struggle with Addiction

Riley revealed that her mother’s grief led to a descent into addiction. Struggling to cope with the loss of her son, Lisa Marie turned to substances to numb the pain. This, combined with her pre-existing health issues, made her final years even more challenging.

From Here to the Great Unknown: A Legacy of Resilience

Completing the Memoir

Before her passing, Lisa Marie had been working on a memoir, “From Here to the Great Unknown,” which she promised to complete with Riley’s help. The book delves into the Presley family’s history, their struggles, and the shared pain of losing Benjamin. Riley found it incredibly difficult to write about her brother’s death and her mother’s subsequent decline, but she knew it was a story that needed to be told.

A Message of Hope and Healing

Despite the focus on grief, Riley insists that the memoir is not solely about loss. It’s also about love, resilience, and the human capacity to endure. She hopes readers will find comfort in knowing they’re not alone in their struggles.

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Riley Keough’s Own Journey Through Grief

Finding Solace in Art

In her own journey through grief, Riley Keough found solace in unexpected places. She mentioned finding comfort in Nick Cave’s 2016 documentary film, “One More Time with Feeling,” which explores Cave’s process of dealing with the loss of his son. It served as a reminder that others have walked similar paths of sorrow and emerged with their spirits intact.

Helping Others Heal

Riley has also become an advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. She shared a story of a young person who credited her words for saving their life. This deeply moved her and gave her purpose in the aftermath of her family’s tragedy.

The Power of Storytelling

Connecting Through Shared Experiences

With her mother’s memoir, Riley hopes to build a bridge between those who have experienced similar losses and those who feel isolated in their grief. She believes that by sharing their story, she and her mother can help others feel less alone.

A Book for All

“From Here to the Great Unknown” is more than just a recounting of tragedies; it is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. It speaks to anyone who has faced hardship, reminding them that even in the darkest times, there is hope.

Looking Forward: Riley’s Next Steps

Upcoming Oprah Winfrey Special

Riley Keough will be discussing the book and her mother’s legacy in an upcoming special with Oprah Winfrey, airing on CBS and Paramount+ on October 8th. This interview will delve deeper into Lisa Marie’s life, her struggles, and the indelible mark she left on those who loved her.

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Continuing the Legacy

Riley is committed to keeping her mother’s memory alive, not just through the memoir but also by being a voice for those who struggle with mental health issues. She wants to use her platform to spread awareness and offer support to those in need.

Conclusion: A Heartbreaking Yet Hopeful Legacy

The tragic loss of Lisa Marie Presley serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of grief and the importance of mental health awareness. Riley Keough’s candidness about her family’s struggles brings a human touch to a deeply painful story, one that many can relate to. Through her mother’s memoir, Riley hopes to offer a beacon of hope to others who are navigating the stormy seas of grief and loss.

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