When Elvis Presley began shooting his 15th feature film, Viva Las Vegas, in 1963, everything changed for him. He had enjoyed flings with the Hollywood actresses he worked with in the past, but when he met Ann-Margret, he fell head-over-heels in love with her.
She was often described as "the female Elvis" on account of her talents, charm, and powerful good looks. But the lovers had to break up after news of their affair got out to Elvis' girlfriend, Priscilla Presley (Beaulieu, at the time). That didn't bring their connection to an end, though.
Elvis Presley gave Ann-Margret secret codename for Graceland calls to dodge PriscillaDuring their sneaky relationship, Ann-Margret was given a secret nickname to use when she called the King's house.
The main ploy was that Ann-Margret would call and tell Elvis' housekeeper that "Thumper" was calling.
Elvis and Ann-Margret spent as much time with one another as possible. This was not just some Hollywood fling, however. The pair truly found kinship in one another and created a strong relationship.
When the star returned home, he would often speak with Ann-Margret over the phone - but would employ some cunning tactics to keep the calls secret.
"He'd send her flowers on opening night," Lamar remembered. "Always red roses in the shape of a guitar. And then he'd go to see her backstage."
And Ann-Margret's love for Elvis didn't change either. She even got a custom-built gift made for him to show her affection.
Billy Smith, another member of the Memphis Mafia, said Ann-Margret "still cared about Elvis" long after they broke up.
"She had a slot machine made for him," he revealed. "Instead of cherries or jokers, it had three guitars that lined up for the jackpot."
This was no doubt a heartfelt gift for Elvis, as slot machines are synonymous with gambling and Las Vegas, and considering the star first met Ann-Margret on the set of Viva Las Vegas, this custom-built machine was the perfect way of manifesting their connection.
Billy added that Elvis' family put the slot machine "in the basement at Graceland". However, it is not known whether this custom-made game is still at the enormous 14-acre property in Memphis, Tennessee.
