Riley Keough, the granddaughter of Elvis Presley and daughter of Lisa Marie Presley, recently opened up about her unique childhood, revealing why Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch felt more like home to her than the iconic Graceland estate.
In an interview reflecting on her formative years, Riley shared candid insights about the stark contrasts between the two legendary properties. Graceland, Elvis Presley’s Memphis mansion, is celebrated as a historic landmark filled with the legacy of her grandfather’s extraordinary career. However, for Riley, the grandeur and constant influx of fans made it feel less personal. “Graceland is beautiful, but it always felt more like a museum than a home,” she explained.
In contrast, Neverland Ranch, which she frequently visited during her mother Lisa Marie’s marriage to Michael Jackson, offered a more whimsical and child-centered environment. “Neverland was magical. It was a place where I could just be a kid,” Riley revealed. From its amusement park rides to its zoo and serene countryside setting, Neverland provided an escape from the pressures of growing up in one of the most famous families in the world.
Riley also acknowledged the special bond she shared with Michael Jackson during her time at Neverland, crediting his understanding of the challenges of fame for creating a space where she felt free to express herself. “Michael understood what it was like to grow up in the spotlight, and he made Neverland a haven for all of us,” she said.
While Riley deeply appreciates her Presley roots and the legacy of Graceland, her fond memories of Neverland highlight a side of her childhood that was filled with joy and imagination. Her reflections offer a rare glimpse into what it was like to grow up at the intersection of two of the most iconic figures in music history.
