Red West

[crazy]

Hello Everyone. Just wondering you dont here anything about Red West anymore is he still alive and what is he up to if he is.

[jak]

Red is still acting in films.He did operate an acting school fairly recently.I saw he and his wife relocated not long ago so Im not sure if he is still teaching acting now.
Jak

[meg]

Actor Red West and wife Pat are planning to sell their Bartlett residence and move to Biloxi, Miss., closer to family and more plentiful acting opportunities.

The Wests met when Red was among Elvis Presley's entourage and Pat was the singer's secretary during filming of "Follow that Dream."

In 2005 West -- also known as a songwriter and friend of Elvis Presley -- was in "Forty Shades of Blue" that won the grand jury prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

In 2006 he nailed a juicy role in the Jerry Bruckheimer-produced sports flick "Glory Road."

And less than two weeks ago he showed up in the pilot of the new FX channel hit "The Riches" in a recurring role.

The critically acclaimed series stars Eddie Izzard and Minnie Driver as a family of Irish Travelers who take over the identities of a couple killed in a car crash.

Irish Travelers are nomadic clans often viewed as thieves and troublemakers -- and they certainly are in "The Riches." The nuclear family headed by Izzard and Driver's characters have split from the larger clan, taking more than their share of the treasury and shattering the usually tight-knit tribe.

West's character is the clan patriarch but has been incapacitated. He can communicate only by ringing a bell and staring with eyes that are sometimes baleful, sometimes angry.

West said filming the show was great fun and he hopes -- as all actors do -- that it will lead to more work. The director of one of the episodes told him that "sooner or later" he'd use West in another project. "I said, make it sooner, son."

Wherever he goes, his wife Pat West is always with him. Back in the early Sixties, he was hanging around with Elvis and she was the singer's secretary.

They met, and in three weeks were married. Their honeymoon was spent in Florida where Elvis was filming "Follow that Dream" and director Gordon Douglas gave Red plenty of work -- sometimes as an extra, sometimes doing stunt work, sometimes as a double.

"They made him up all different ways," Pat says, "so we had some money for our honeymoon."

Pat is an agent for members of the Screen Actors Guild. She's as involved in the film business as Red is, but the Mid-South will soon lose both when they settle in Biloxi, Miss. There they'll be much nearer to New Orleans where film and TV shows are constantly in production. They'll also be nearer to their son, actor John Boyd West, and their grandchildren.

They are departing with mixed feelings. Red bemoans Tennessee's lateness in responding to the film incentives that have been offered since 2002 in Louisiana. Substantial tax breaks have lured a steady stream of productions to the state.

Tennessee's General Assembly approved an incentive package last year. It still has not been implemented although an announcement is expected soon from the Tennessee Film, Entertainment and Music Commission, possibly in a few days.

The Wests say, however, that local film boosters have gone all out. Pat pointed out that Memphis and Shelby County Film & Television Commission head Linn Sitler and board chairman Herbie O'Mell have worked tirelessly to bring productions to Memphis.

For Red, though, the action keeps pulling him back to the Crescent City. His first movie was "King Creole," starring Elvis and filmed in New Orleans. Since then he's been in dozens of movies and dozens more TV shows.

Another reason that leaving town is so bittersweet is that the Wests are leaving their house in Bartlett with a large pond and stables on the acreage.

It certainly has acres of memories. A number of celebrities have been by, many speaking to the acting classes Red held from shortly after he moved here from California in 1991 until last year.

They include Benicio del Toro, Billy Bob Thornton, Joe Don Baker, Robert Conrad, T.G. Sheppard, Bo Hopkins and Gene Evans.

When "Forty Shades of Blue" began shooting, director Ira Sachs brought Rip Torn, the film's marquee name, over to Red's house. In part it was so the actors could get to know each other, but mainly it was because Torn is a passionate fisherman.

"He stayed out on the pond all day," Red said. "In his dressing room on the set he put lures together. That was his whole life."

Soon the Wests will pack those 8-by-10 celebrity photos and a houseful of memories. The relocation to Biloxi will cut back on those fuel bills, amped up by frequent Memphis-New Orleans runs. But they'll still take frequent jaunts to Atlanta where Red has a stake in Red's Bar and Restaurant, an eatery where the walls are covered with Red West memorabilia.

But if those walls illustrate his colorful past, he's also an actor still cultivating his career. And for his future, he's got to go where the action is.

The CommercialAppeal

[Diane]

This is a nice write-up on Red. He seems to know how to keep busy. Hope they will both be happy in their move.

Diane

[Menwithbrokenhearts]

I thought he was great in "Glory Road" but I think I liked him best as the mechanic in that TV Series "Black Sheep" ( I think that's the name) with William Conrad.

[jak]

I thought he was great in "Glory Road" but I think I liked him best as the mechanic in that TV Series "Black Sheep" ( I think that's the name) with William Conrad.

I think the full name was Baa Baa Black Sheep.It starred Robert Conrad.William Conrad played Cannon.A detective series.
Jak

[Albert]

two pictures from Red West as a trainer in the movie Glory Road

http://ia.utep.edu/Portals/1267/Glory%20%20Road%20%20Publicity%20Shots%20450%20Pix els/117_GRC-C092-009A.jpg

http://ia.utep.edu/Portals/1267/Glory%20%20Road%20%20Publicity%20Shots%20450%20Pix els/413-GRC-00085.jpg

[elvis himselvis]

thanks for sharing those photos:)
i didn't know how he looked today...a little bit older...:lmfao:

[Burning_Love]

Wow, thanksn for the pics and info. Still going, no matter his age !!! (y) :king:

[IM4Elvis]

Thanks so much for the info and pics. Unlike some of the so-called "body guards" of Elvis, I've always liked Red. He seemed to truly care for Elvis and have Elvis' best interest at heart. I wish him continued success.

IM

[SweetCaroline]

Thanks so much for the info and pics. Unlike some of the so-called "body guards" of Elvis, I've always liked Red. He seemed to truly care for Elvis and have Elvis' best interest at heart. I wish him continued success.

IM

It is hard for me to like a man who will secretly record a conversation with a friend....and lie straight out to the friend (ELVIS) during the taped conversation... telling ELVIS the book will only be about the good things.

[Gary1]

Thanks so much for the info and pics. Unlike some of the so-called "body guards" of Elvis, I've always liked Red. He seemed to truly care for Elvis and have Elvis' best interest at heart. I wish him continued success.

IM
Yeah!! he really cared for Elvis.That's why he co-wrote such a great book about him.(n):hmm: With friends like that you don't need enemys.:angry:

[Diane]

Red wrote a very bad book and he did lie to Elvis when he said it wasn't going to be bad. The only thing I feel he's had going for him is that he found his own way into the world without poaching on Elvis' name unlike the rest of the MM.

I have felt that he regretted what he'd done after Elvis died. I thought Sonny had the same feelings but what I've read about his latest book that isn't the case. Red so far hasn't written a book on his own. If he does and it's no better than Sonny's, I'll dump him in with the rest of the lot.

Diane

[IM4Elvis]

Diane, you articulated what I was trying to say in my stumbling, bumbling way. I agree 100% with you that Red "regretted" the infamous book of 1977. There have been no signs of that with the other co-authors. Thanks for saying it well. :notworthy

IM

[SweetCaroline]

Red wrote a very bad book and he did lie to Elvis when he said it wasn't going to be bad. The only thing I feel he's had going for him is that he found his own way into the world without poaching on Elvis' name unlike the rest of the MM.

I have felt that he regretted what he'd done after Elvis died. I thought Sonny had the same feelings but what I've read about his latest book that isn't the case. Red so far hasn't written a book on his own. If he does and it's no better than Sonny's, I'll dump him in with the rest of the lot.

Diane

I have high doubts, Red, would be employed in the acting world today... if not for his friendship with ELVIS and the connections with the Hollywood set that gave Red access to.

[Menwithbrokenhearts]

I think the full name was Baa Baa Black Sheep.It starred Robert Conrad.William Conrad played Cannon.A detective series.
Jak
You are absolutely right. Brain fart on my part :blink:Thanks

[jak]

I have high doubts, Red, would be employed in the acting world today... if not for his friendship with ELVIS and the connections with the Hollywood set that gave Red access to.

I have no doubt what you said is true.However Red has had a nice career due to the fact he actually is talented and diverse.Dont forget he even wrote a few songs for Elvis.In spite of the way it ended I will always say Red was Elvis' true friend.
Jak

[Burning_Love]

Me too Jak, i agree. He was very talented and still is. :king:

[Tony Trout]

Sonny does regret writing the book...there is a chapter devoted to his reaction upon hearing of Elvis's death and his remorse for writing the book.....

*keeps mouth shut before getting into trouble*

[Trev1]

I feel that Sonny and Red wrote the book to make Elvis see sense as at the time he was literally killing himself with prescribed drugs, etc., and was in a very bad shape... they hoped that it would make him change. It did'nt unfortunately :sad:

[presley31]

I don't feel sorry for them, they made there bed they can sleep in it!!!!!!

[meg]

Sonny does regret writing the book...there is a chapter devoted to his reaction upon hearing of Elvis's death and his remorse for writing the book.....

*keeps mouth shut before getting into trouble*

I don?t believe it! Read this!

If Red said that I know he didn't mean it for the reason many might think.

He just meant he's tired of having to talk about it 30 years later.

Marty

http://groups.google.de/group/alt.elvis.king/browse_thread/thread/1c17445ea8bb312a/4f6dad3486349788?lnk=gst&q=RED+SONNY+REGRET+BOOK&rnum=1&hl=de#4f6dad3486349788

[jak]

[QUOTE=meg;123091]I don?t believe it! Read this!

If Red said that I know he didn't mean it for the reason many might think.

He just meant he's tired of having to talk about it 30 years later.

Marty

I wouldnt be surprised if that's true.I get the impression Red is a no nonsense guy who lives with his descions.I doubt he's one to linger on past history.He probably does get tired of all the questions about Elvis.Red doesnt go out of his way to capitilize on his relationship with Elvis.Maybe he gets tired of Elvis questions period.That's his right and I dont blame him.It probably gets old getting asked the same stuff over and over.That goes for anybody that was so closely identified with Elvis.
Jak

[KPM]

[QUOTE=meg;123091]I don?t believe it! Read this!

If Red said that I know he didn't mean it for the reason many might think.

He just meant he's tired of having to talk about it 30 years later.

Marty

I wouldnt be surprised if that's true.I get the impression Red is a no nonsense guy who lives with his descions.I doubt he's one to linger on past history.He probably does get tired of all the questions about Elvis.Red doesnt go out of his way to capitilize on his relationship with Elvis.Maybe he gets tired of Elvis questions period.That's his right and I dont blame him.It probably gets old getting asked the same stuff over and over.That goes for anybody that was so closely identified with Elvis.
Jak
Red has faults like all, but he is a talented actor. He association with Robert Conrad goes way back to his years as a stuntman on Wild Wild West tv series. He has really grown as an actor over the years and maybe at times feels he is not given enough credit for what he has done in songwriting and acting. But there is no doubt if he had not known Elvis he would have never got into show business. He was not headed that way in the slightest until he began to travel and hang out with Elvis in the 50s. But he has made a pretty good living on his own.

[meg]

talented actor

That has nothing to do with it all.I said I don?t believe Red and Sonny regret it to write this book.Read what Marty said about both.:D

[KPM]

I was actually commenting on Jaks comment -sorry for the misunderstanding.

[Elvis_Priestly]

Was reading about Red storming off from Elvis's wedding reception in "Careless Love" after reading in "A Life in Music" Jorgensen's comment that "Longtime friend Red West had returned to the fold (he'd left in a huff four year's earlier when he wasn't invited to Elvis's wedding)"

Just thought it was significant as he wasn't there the whole time but had exiled himself after an apparent slight.

[Diane]

I wouldn't believe anything Marty says about Red and Sonny. He and Lamar are the worse two in my mind for exaggerating what went on.

Diane

[meg]

I wouldn't believe anything Marty says about Red and Sonny. He and Lamar are the worse two in my mind for exaggerating what went on.

Diane

I know (and don?t like him)but he?s a very good friend from Red and Sonny(n)

[SweetCaroline]

I have no doubt what you said is true.However Red has had a nice career due to the fact he actually is talented and diverse. Jak

I didn't say Red didn't have his own talent. My post stands alone in its meaning.

[SweetCaroline]

But there is no doubt if he had not known Elvis he would have never got into show business. He was not headed that way in the slightest until he began to travel and hang out with Elvis in the 50s. But he has made a pretty good living on his own.

That was the point I was trying to make, but you did a better job. :notworthy

[Diane]

Let's let the man get on with his life. If he caused as much harm with the "bad" book as most of us think he had, he's had to live with it and I'm sure he's paid in a lot of ways we know nothing about. He doesn't look like a happy man - none of them do with the exception of Lamar, he still laughs at it all - I guess he's the one without a conscience.

Diane

[Trev1]

I wouldn't believe anything Marty says about Red and Sonny. He and Lamar are the worse two in my mind for exaggerating what went on.

Diane

Here Here........ (y)

[jak]

I didn't say Red didn't have his own talent. My post stands alone in its meaning.

I understood your point.Mine was that once Red had his chance he deserved it.He has flourished and had a good career without Elvis' influence.He has thrived since Elvis' passing because he's earned it.He doesnt flaunt his Elvis connection.It's only the fans who dwell on it.Red is a class act.
Jak

[Merry]

[quote=meg;123091]It probably gets old getting asked the same stuff over and over.That goes for anybody that was so closely identified with Elvis.
Jak



That isn't true Jak, not at all. Elvis has friends that read these sites and contact members, setting the record straight.

You watch interviews, read interviews, I can post a dozen right here and now, whereas his friends are animated, and loving, towards their best friend (Elvis).

[Merry]

I don?t believe it! Read this!

If Red said that I know he didn't mean it for the reason many might think.

He just meant he's tired of having to talk about it 30 years later.

Marty

http://groups.google.de/group/alt.elvis.king/browse_thread/thread/1c17445ea8bb312a/4f6dad3486349788?lnk=gst&q=RED+SONNY+REGRET+BOOK&rnum=1&hl=de#4f6dad3486349788



Sonny's PR would love to see Lacker's reply, I'm sure.

Put it this way, Lacker smugly shared on AEK, that he likes to belittle fans for sport. Can this man be one whom you would trust?

[jak]

You are generalizing.My point is that even though people can be polite and responsive doesnt mean they are not sick of hearing the same questions over and over.This of course does not apply to everyone.On the other hand I have met people who care not to discuss their contact with Elvis for whatever reason.I dont see Red reaching out to the Elvis fans.Many of the people who are readily available also use Elvis as the meal ticket after 30 years.Some have agenda's and some dont.That's my point.
Jak



That isn't true Jak, not at all. Elvis has friends that read these sites and contact members, setting the record straight.

You watch interviews, read interviews, I can post a dozen right here and now, whereas his friends are animated, and loving, towards their best friend (Elvis).[/QUOTE]

[Diane]

Your point taken Jak and I agree.

Diane

[Merry]

You are generalizing.My point is that even though people can be polite and responsive doesnt mean they are not sick of hearing the same questions over and over.This of course does not apply to everyone.On the other hand I have met people who care not to discuss their contact with Elvis for whatever reason.I dont see Red reaching out to the Elvis fans.Many of the people who are readily available also use Elvis as the meal ticket after 30 years.Some have agenda's and some dont.That's my point.
Jak



That isn't true Jak, not at all. Elvis has friends that read these sites and contact members, setting the record straight.

You watch interviews, read interviews, I can post a dozen right here and now, whereas his friends are animated, and loving, towards their best friend (Elvis).[/quote]



LOL, so are you! hehe

Jess

[jak]

LOL, so are you! hehe

Jess[/QUOTE]

Actually I said my comments dont apply to everyone so that means Im not generalizing.

[marijaep]

ummm....
Well, I have mixed feelings about Red and Sonny West. I bet they felt hurt when Vernon fired them, they were Elvis' friends for a long time after all.
But, I still think they shouldn't have written that book...I don't believe it was only because they wanted to get Elvis out of his drug abuse. I see it like a revenge. Elvis was very hurt after they published the book and was scared what will the fans think of him :'(
On the others side....Where was Elvis when Vernon fired them? I mean they worked for Elvis after all...:hmm:

Red is indeed a talented person and a good actor. Thanks for the pictures(y):D

[rhythmknights]

[QUOTE=jak;123093]
Red has faults like all, but he is a talented actor. He association with Robert Conrad goes way back to his years as a stuntman on Wild Wild West tv series. He has really grown as an actor over the years and maybe at times feels he is not given enough credit for what he has done in songwriting and acting. But there is no doubt if he had not known Elvis he would have never got into show business. He was not headed that way in the slightest until he began to travel and hang out with Elvis in the 50s. But he has made a pretty good living on his own.

So, did Red ever say to Elvis or anyone in any of his interviews or quotes to journalists that he owes a debt of gratitude to Elvis for introducing him into the industry?
Was i a bit catty? so sorry!

[KPM]

[QUOTE=KPM;123096]

So, did Red ever say to Elvis or anyone in any of his interviews or quotes to journalists that he owes a debt of gratitude to Elvis for introducing him into the industry?
Was i a bit catty? so sorry!
I think he has acknowledged Elvis and his getting him into the acting and the music business.

[Tony Trout]

On the others side....Where was Elvis when Vernon fired them? I mean they worked for Elvis after all...:hmm:

Where was Elvis? He took the high road and flew out of town and told Vernon to sack Sonny and Red & Dave (whom we all seem to be forgetting in this whole situation....it wasn't just Sonny and Red who were so unceremoniously dumped...although I still don't understand Elvis's reasoning for dumping Dave Hebler.... :hmm: ).

Frankly, I can understand them being so hurt at Elvis for the way they were released as Elvis's employees....and as I've prolly stated before, had Red and Dave and Sonny chosen another author besides Steve Dunleavey to write the book I think it would have turned out a lot like Sonny's recent book..

[marina]

Out of all the MM I think Red West was the most decent one out of them all, I think he was Elvis's truest friend, he was protecting Elvis from school days, he was there before it all began, I think Elvis's loyalty could be questioned too, why have Joe Espositio as a best man? I could never understand that, Red wasn't even invited to the wedding....You don't see Red West riding on Elvis's coat tails, that shows his character and shows he was with Elvis for the right reasons. I wish he would write another book as I would be very interested to read it, I think the truth would be told from this man, he seems to be a straight shooter and basically has a life, not like the others that are still trying to make a buck from Elvis.... Even Joe Esposito was quoted as saying that Elvis and Red were very very close like brothers....

[presley31]

Out of all the MM I think Red West was the most decent one out of them all, I think he was Elvis's truest friend, he was protecting Elvis from school days, he was there before it all began, I think Elvis's loyalty could be questioned too, why have Joe Espositio as a best man? I could never understand that, Red wasn't even invited to the wedding....You don't see Red West riding on Elvis's coat tails, that shows his character and shows he was with Elvis for the right reasons. I wish he would write another book as I would be very interested to read it, I think the truth would be told from this man, he seems to be a straight shooter and basically has a life, not like the others that are still trying to make a buck from Elvis.... Even Joe Esposito was quoted as saying that Elvis and Red were very very close like brothers....

l agree with you, red sure showed he loved elvis as a friend and a brother. l think red had all good intentions when it came to elvis.

[utmom2008]

Yeah!! he really cared for Elvis.That's why he co-wrote such a great book about him.(n):hmm: With friends like that you don't need enemys.:angry:
Amen......Amen.....:!:

[utmom2008]

Red wrote a very bad book and he did lie to Elvis when he said it wasn't going to be bad. The only thing I feel he's had going for him is that he found his own way into the world without poaching on Elvis' name unlike the rest of the MM.

I have felt that he regretted what he'd done after Elvis died. I thought Sonny had the same feelings but what I've read about his latest book that isn't the case. Red so far hasn't written a book on his own. If he does and it's no better than Sonny's, I'll dump him in with the rest of the lot.

Diane
What have you heard about Sonny's book? I won't buy it, but I'm interested as to what he has to say for himself during the last 30 years

[Diane]

Marina, I agree with you all in all except that I don't think Elvis had much say in who was going to be his best man at his wedding. The Colonel I think was in charge of that and decided where and when it was going to take place and who would attend and who wouldn't.

I agree that Red cared a lot for Elvis because of his long association with him stemming for their high school years together and that I think he carries the greatest feeling of guilt for the book even today. He also has good reason for having been treated the way he was but he should have thought about the consequences of being part of such a book and now has to live with it.

Diane

[presley31]

red was wrong for being part of the book, but like diane said l truly feel he's regretted to this day. I bet red himself would love to had the chance to say sorry to elvis for hurting him the way he did.

[utmom2008]

Let's let the man get on with his life. If he caused as much harm with the "bad" book as most of us think he had, he's had to live with it and I'm sure he's paid in a lot of ways we know nothing about. He doesn't look like a happy man - none of them do with the exception of Lamar, he still laughs at it all - I guess he's the one without a conscience.

Diane
Speaking of Lamar, where is he now and what is he doing?

[presley31]

Speaking of Lamar, where is he now and what is he doing?

he's coming out with a new book.

heres some stuff about sonny's book
http://www.elvisinfonet.com/sonnywestexcerpt1.html

[Tony Trout]

Speaking of Lamar, where is he now and what is he doing?


Lamar now lives in Dallas, Texas. Not sure what he does as a day-to-day job, though. He got out of the music business years ago, I believe.

[Getlo]

red was wrong for being part of the book, but like diane said l truly feel he's regretted to this day. I bet red himself would love to had the chance to say sorry to elvis for hurting him the way he did.

So why do you not extend the same courtesy to Sonny? He and Red had an equal part in What Happened.

Why, out of all the MM, is Sonny the one to cop so much flack (especially on this forum) ?

[The King's Queen]

I agree that Red cared a lot for Elvis because of his long association with him stemming for their high school years together and that I think he carries the greatest feeling of guilt for the book even today. He also has good reason for having been treated the way he was but he should have thought about the consequences of being part of such a book and now has to live with it.

Diane

I'm bowing down to you Diane...:notworthy...very well said!


red was wrong for being part of the book, but like diane said l truly feel he's regretted to this day. I bet red himself would love to had the chance to say sorry to elvis for hurting him the way he did.

You may be right Jen....but it is now too little, too late. And besides, the sad truth is that often times an apology falls short of compensating for a deep felt hurt. I doubt that any of them could ever make it right...no matter how hard they tried. I guess the end justifies the means...he hurt Elvis deeply, and if he lives in regret then I guess that is his own demon, eh? :hug:

[ksimms2]

I thought he was great in "Glory Road" but I think I liked him best as the mechanic in that TV Series "Black Sheep" ( I think that's the name) with William Conrad.

That used to be my favorite show, and I never knew that was Red West! Really??

[presley31]

I'm bowing down to you Diane...:notworthy...very well said!



You may be right Jen....but it is now too little, too late. And besides, the sad truth is that often times an apology falls short of compensating for a deep felt hurt. I doubt that any of them could ever make it right...no matter how hard they tried. I guess the end justifies the means...he hurt Elvis deeply, and if he lives in regret then I guess that is his own demon, eh? :hug:

Yep your right there, red can't turn back time and make it alright. he really should of thought of that in the beginning:hmm:

[ksimms2]

Was reading about Red storming off from Elvis's wedding reception in "Careless Love" after reading in "A Life in Music" Jorgensen's comment that "Longtime friend Red West had returned to the fold (he'd left in a huff four year's earlier when he wasn't invited to Elvis's wedding)"

Just thought it was significant as he wasn't there the whole time but had exiled himself after an apparent slight.

Please let me share with you why Red and his wife left so abruptly. Joe E. (I think it was Joe) called them in California and told them Elvis and Priscilla were getting married and the guys were invited so hurry up and fly out to Vegas for their wedding. So Red and Pat dropped everything and flew out. They got hotel rooms and got all dressed up and waited and waited and waited, nobody had the decency to tell them they were "uninvited" the actual ceremony. Red happened to catch Joe out in the hallway and asked him what was going on and Joe finally told him he could not come to the ceremony after all. That really hurt their feelings, and I don't blame them. So they flew back home.

[ksimms2]

Let's let the man get on with his life. If he caused as much harm with the "bad" book as most of us think he had, he's had to live with it and I'm sure he's paid in a lot of ways we know nothing about. He doesn't look like a happy man - none of them do with the exception of Lamar, he still laughs at it all - I guess he's the one without a conscience.

Diane

I'm suprised Lamar can laugh about it - he was the butt of all of the fat jokes there were.....they all made fun of Lamar, but especially Elvis. Not very nice.

[Getlo]

I'm suprised Lamar can laugh about it - he was the butt of all of the fat jokes there were.....they all made fun of Lamar, but especially Elvis. Not very nice.

Yes.

And I'll just bet there are some fans out there (and at least one or two I can think of in here!) who hate Lamar for the part he played in What Happened and will actually take pleasure if his cancer does finally claim him.

And they will smile when Sonny, Red and the rest eventually die too.

What a world.

[Diane]

Yes Kelly, Red and his wife arrived to attend Elvis' wedding only to be told he was not invited.....that was the Colonel's decision, not Elvis'. I doubt if Elvis knew that had been done.

As far as Lamar is concerned, he may have been the brunt of everyone's fat jokes but his mouth wasn't the best to everyone else either and for sure still isn't!

Diane

[presley31]

Yes Kelly, Red and his wife arrived to attend Elvis' wedding only to be told he was not invited.....that was the Colonel's decision, not Elvis'. I doubt if Elvis knew that had been done.

As far as Lamar is concerned, he may have been the brunt of everyone's fat jokes but his mouth wasn't the best to everyone else either and for sure still isn't!

Diane

agreed diane. what a shock that would of been going to a wedding and getting told your not invited

[utmom2008]

Yes.

And I'll just bet there are some fans out there (and at least one or two I can think of in here!) who hate Lamar for the part he played in What Happened and will actually take pleasure if his cancer does finally claim him.

And they will smile when Sonny, Red and the rest eventually die too.

What a world.
Does Lamar have cancer? I had not heard that............

[KPM]

I would not wish cancer on anyone for any reason. My father in law died of lung cancer and my cousin died (at 24) of Leukemia. Cancer is a dignity robbing heartless killer.

[Burning_Love]

KPM, was literally going to write the same, my nan has cancer and she suffered for a little while - it's not a nice thing (she has had it for a year). Wouldn't wish it upon anyone, not even my worst enemy. Sorry to hear about your father in law and cousin.

[Getlo]

Does Lamar have cancer? I had not heard that............


Yes, he's apparently in remission at the moment.

[KPM]

KPM, was literally going to write the same, my nan has cancer and she suffered for a little while - it's not a nice thing (she has had it for a year). Wouldn't wish it upon anyone, not even my worst enemy. Sorry to hear about your father in law and cousin.
Watching the weight loss, hair loss, constant tests and chemo it is such a sad thing. I recall trying to cheer up my cousin (who had 2 young boys) and all I could see was total fear in her eyes.

[Diane]

I don't have much respect for Lamar but nor do I wish him any harm. Yes, cancer is a terrible desease to have to fight. I do wish him all the best luck in his fight.

Diane

[ksimms2]

Yes Kelly, Red and his wife arrived to attend Elvis' wedding only to be told he was not invited.....that was the Colonel's decision, not Elvis'. I doubt if Elvis knew that had been done.

As far as Lamar is concerned, he may have been the brunt of everyone's fat jokes but his mouth wasn't the best to everyone else either and for sure still isn't!

Diane

I haven't heard much about Lamar these days....just what I've read in "Revelations of MM" that's about it....

[Diane]

Ok, Revelations is a good book, no doubt quite a few truths in it but remember...it's not a bible! Neither are all the other "most researched" books - Careless Love, Last Train To Memphis etc.etc.etc....they are all every last one of them strictly ONE-SIDED! :blink: Anyone who believes in these books without doubt either badly wants to believe everything in them or have no minds of their own and are just as bad as those they accuse of wearing rose-coloured glasses and swear Wanda Hill knows all....just on opposite corners.

Diane

[Getlo]

Careless Love, Last Train To Memphis ... they are strictly ONE-SIDED!

How so ... ?

[Diane]

That's easy to answer....where's Elvis' side of these? I haven't seen his take in any of them??????:supriced:

Diane

[Getlo]

That's easy to answer....where's Elvis' side of these? I haven't seen his take in any of them??????:supriced:

Diane, that's unfair to Guralnick and other noted authors.

How could any biography of Elvis have his side of things???

He never discussed his life or great issues publicly. Oh, and he carked it 30 years ago no less!

Any book that purported to give Elvis' side would be pure speculation at best. To call Guralnick's efforts "one sided" is grossly unfair, IMO. There was nothing in these books that was sensationalistic or inaccurate either.

[KPM]

Its true no book could give Elvis's side only he could give it. He supposedly wanted to call his bio if he ever wrote one-"Through My Eyes"
I think it might be good to remember every now and then that he would have had a side to weight in against all the books, interviews, videos and forums.
The central figure of all the talk- does not have a voice in it. So as we go about deciding -what he meant, what he did, what he took, who he loved, who he hated, what his medical history was, and why he was who he was it might be nice to remember his side is missing. The fact that he will never tell it does not negate the fact he would have one. I see nothing unfair or outlandish about remembering he can't tell his version of his own life.

[presley31]

Its true no book could give Elvis's side only he could give it. He supposedly wanted to call his bio if he ever wrote one-"Through My Eyes"
I think it might be good to remember every now and then that he would have had a side to weight in against all the books, interviews, videos and forums.
The central figure of all the talk- does not have a voice in it. So as we go about deciding -what he meant, what he did, what he took, who he loved, who he hated, what his medical history was, and why he was who he was it might be nice to remember his side is missing. The fact that he will never tell it does not negate the fact he would have one. I see nothing unfair or outlandish about remembering he can't tell his version of his own life.

I have to keep my eyes open for that book.

[KPM]

I have to keep my eyes open for that book.
He never wrote the book but he is supposed to have told someone that "Through my Eyes" would be the title if he ever wrote a bio. Wish he had lived to write it.

[presley31]

He never wrote the book but he is supposed to have told someone that "Through my Eyes" would be the title if he ever wrote a bio. Wish he had lived to write it.

:doh: no wonder l couldn't find anything:lmfao:

[cameron]

Ok, Revelations is a good book, no doubt quite a few truths in it but remember...it's not a bible! Neither are all the other "most researched" books - Careless Love, Last Train To Memphis etc.etc.etc....they are all every last one of them strictly ONE-SIDED! :blink: Anyone who believes in these books without doubt either badly wants to believe everything in them or have no minds of their own and are just as bad as those they accuse of wearing rose-coloured glasses and swear Wanda Hill knows all....just on opposite corners.

Diane
I have to agree, Diane. Every one of these books were from the "he said, she said" pile of stories. No matter how well researched ; one can't believe all of any of them. How many people will be able to go back and tell someone how I felt or why I did things after I'm gone if they never talked to me? Even "thinking for oneself " can never guarantee that I'd know another souls inner thoughts.

[marijaep]

Ok, Revelations is a good book, no doubt quite a few truths in it but remember...it's not a bible! Neither are all the other "most researched" books - Careless Love, Last Train To Memphis etc.etc.etc....they are all every last one of them strictly ONE-SIDED! :blink: Anyone who believes in these books without doubt either badly wants to believe everything in them or have no minds of their own and are just as bad as those they accuse of wearing rose-coloured glasses and swear Wanda Hill knows all....just on opposite corners.

Diane

I honestly think that Guralnick did an amazing job with both of the books(Careless Love and Last Train To Memphis). There's a kind of balance between the good and bad. I love them because they are not fairy tales but they are not Albert Goldman - type of book either :D

And I am sure it took him a lot of time to collect everything and then put it all together in a book.

[jak]

Ok, Revelations is a good book, no doubt quite a few truths in it but remember...it's not a bible! Neither are all the other "most researched" books - Careless Love, Last Train To Memphis etc.etc.etc....they are all every last one of them strictly ONE-SIDED! :blink: Anyone who believes in these books without doubt either badly wants to believe everything in them or have no minds of their own and are just as bad as those they accuse of wearing rose-coloured glasses and swear Wanda Hill knows all....just on opposite corners.

Diane

Hey Diane
I gotta disagree with you on this one.Careless Love and Last Train are the two most respected books ever done on Presley.Written by an accomplished journalist who has nothing but admiration and devotion to Elvis.He's a self proclaimed fan.The credibility of his books has never been questioned.He was able to write objectively in spite of his admiration for Elvis.Careless Love is depressing because that what the reality was.He just didnt hide or gloss over anything.
Jak

[Diane]

Jak, Getlo, I'm just saying all bios written by another person whether or not that person is still alive or not, the author being highly respected or not, it is still one-sided. How can they not be when the person who is written about has no say in what is written about him?

Diane

[presley31]

Ok, Revelations is a good book, no doubt quite a few truths in it but remember...it's not a bible! Neither are all the other "most researched" books - Careless Love, Last Train To Memphis etc.etc.etc....they are all every last one of them strictly ONE-SIDED! :blink: Anyone who believes in these books without doubt either badly wants to believe everything in them or have no minds of their own and are just as bad as those they accuse of wearing rose-coloured glasses and swear Wanda Hill knows all....just on opposite corners.

Diane

I agree diane, its best to keep a open mind about the books.

[jak]

Jak, Getlo, I'm just saying all bios written by another person whether or not that person is still alive or not, the author being highly respected or not, it is still one-sided. How can they not be when the person who is written about has no say in what is written about him?

Diane

I understand your comments Diane.I do think however you can put a level of credibility on a book.The books we mentioned are held in the highest regard in comparison to most.Although Elvis is gone he still left a trail of evidence for someone like the author to follow.He did an amazing research on those books.
Jak

[cameron]

Jak, Getlo, I'm just saying all bios written by another person whether or not that person is still alive or not, the author being highly respected or not, it is still one-sided. How can they not be when the person who is written about has no say in what is written about him?

Diane

I agree with you too, Diane. (y)
Best to keep an open mind.

I know an author of an Elvis book ..he believes Elvis' will was a forgery.
Had some good points too. ;)
You see how far that's gotten him.
He researched for over 10 years .BTW: he followed some trails too...including the MM .

[jak]

Many of the authors behind the books of Elvis have zero credibilty.Just because someone is an author of a book does not lend credeence in itself.The Guralinick books are the standard by which all other Elvis bio's are judged and for good reason.Somebody like WandA Hill or Dee Presley are so called author's.Yet these people have zero credibilty.Most of the elvis books are not written by respected author's on the level with Guralinick.His credentials cannot be questioned.
Jak

[cameron]

I do not impress easily. I question everyone.
The author I speak of is quite the "Elvis info" person..in many facets.
I just don't like him. ;)

[Gary1]

Yes.

And I'll just bet there are some fans out there (and at least one or two I can think of in here!) who hate Lamar for the part he played in What Happened and will actually take pleasure if his cancer does finally claim him.

And they will smile when Sonny, Red and the rest eventually die too.

What a world.I've read some *****ic posts in my time but this one tops the list.What a B****y stupid thing to say.

[cameron]

I've read some *****ic posts in my time but this one tops the list.What a B****y stupid thing to say.

Yes, it does , doesn't it? Pretty cruel and cold. :'(

[LORRIELOVESELVIS]

I always like Red West:) Seem like a decent man......:king:

[utmom2008]

Diane, that's unfair to Guralnick and other noted authors.

How could any biography of Elvis have his side of things???

He never discussed his life or great issues publicly. Oh, and he carked it 30 years ago no less!

Any book that purported to give Elvis' side would be pure speculation at best. To call Guralnick's efforts "one sided" is grossly unfair, IMO. There was nothing in these books that was sensationalistic or inaccurate either.
I think that maybe she means that his "sources" are subject to question. Like Suzan said yesterday, unless we were there and saw it happen, we don't really know if the story is overblown, or underblown. Maybe that's what she's trying to say:doh:

[Getlo]

I've read some *****ic posts in my time but this one tops the list.What a B****y stupid thing to say.

Gary1, I've just reported you for this post.

You are entitled to your opinion and I am entitled to mine.

There may indeed be posts on here which I think are *****ic (see above); I simply choose to discuss and disgaree rather than launch an uncalled for attack like this.

And you, ajr?


Yes, it does , doesn't it? Pretty cruel and cold. :'(

Same to you, honey.

[Diane]

Jak, I don't doubt Peter Guralnick's credibility as an author at all. I just feel that no matter how much research he's done his information is from everyone except Elvis who has nothing to say in his defense or otherwise.

Diane

[jak]

Jak, I don't doubt Peter Guralnick's credibility as an author at all. I just feel that no matter how much research he's done his information is from everyone except Elvis who has nothing to say in his defense or otherwise.

Diane

Agreed Diane.I just think that the author did the best job possible of piecing the facts together as we know them.Putting Elvis' story on paper certainly is not as diffucult as other historical figures gone much longer.Certain bio's are lauded as monumental achievements on people dead 100 years ago.I think there comes a time when we have to just accept the facts presented that hold up to the most scrutiny.For me the two books we mentioned stand above all others.
Jak

[Tommy]

Please stick to the subject matter and refrain from getting personal.

Thank you.