In a surprising and heartfelt revelation, actress Sally Struthers—best known for her role as Gloria Stivic on All in the Family—shared on the Let’s Talk About That!

podcast that she once dated Elvis Presley “for a while.” Speaking candidly on the January 13, 2025 episode, the 77-year-old described the King of Rock and Roll as “probably the nicest man I ever met,” offering a rare glimpse into a romantic chapter of her life previously kept private.

A Tender Romance With the King

Struthers spoke fondly of her time with Presley, highlighting his kindness and humility amid the superstar’s fame. “He was so polite and so kind and soft-hearted that you just couldn’t believe anybody that was that beautiful had never caught on that they were beautiful and gotten obsessed with themselves,” she recalled. “He was just all about kindness to everyone, which is pretty great.” Her warm memories contrast with the larger-than-life, sometimes troubled public image Elvis often carried.

While Struthers did not specify the exact timing or length of their relationship, clues suggest it occurred in the mid-1970s. Presley divorced Priscilla Presley in 1973 and died in 1977, the same year Struthers married psychiatrist William C. Rader. This period also overlapped with Presley’s known relationships with Linda Thompson and fiancée Ginger Alden.

Contrasting Earlier Accounts

Previously, accounts like those in Joe Esposito’s Good Rockin’ Tonight hinted only at a platonic friendship between Struthers and Presley, describing a casual visit to his Palm Springs home where she spent a night singing with Elvis and a friend. Struthers’ recent confirmation of a romantic relationship adds a new dimension, sparking intrigue and discussion among fans and historians about the depth of their connection.

Struthers, known for her discretion regarding personal matters, rarely discussed meeting Elvis publicly, making this podcast revelation all the more poignant. Some speculate that the informal podcast setting encouraged her openness after decades of privacy.

Presley’s Storied Love Life

Elvis Presley’s romantic history has fascinated fans for decades. Beyond his famous marriage to Priscilla Presley and rumored affairs with Ann-Margret and others, his later years were marked by high-profile relationships including a long-term partnership with Linda Thompson and engagement to Ginger Alden. Struthers’ relationship adds a lesser-known but meaningful chapter to the King’s complex personal narrative.

Reflecting on Hollywood

The conversation with podcast hosts Larry Saperstein and Jacob Bellotti also touched on Struthers’ broader career, including some challenging moments working on All in the Family. Her reflections paint a portrait of an actress who, despite hurdles, has carried a deep well of kindness—much like the Elvis she fondly remembers.

A Legacy of Kindness

Sally Struthers’ affectionate memories of Elvis Presley emphasize a side of the rock legend often overshadowed by fame and controversy: his genuine warmth and decency. As fans continue to celebrate both icons, this candid account enriches the lore surrounding the King of Rock and Roll and the enduring impact he had on those who knew him personally.