In a lesser-known chapter of rock and roll history, Elvis Presley’s 1977 phone call to President Jimmy Carter reveals a poignant moment of desperation and vulnerability for the King of Rock and Roll. Unlike his famous meeting with President Nixon in 1970, this call was driven by a need to help a friend, George Klein, a Memphis DJ facing serious legal trouble for alleged mail fraud.
The connection between Presley and Carter, who are sixth cousins once removed, gave Elvis a glimmer of hope that he could leverage their familial ties to secure a presidential pardon for Klein. Despite the urgency of the situation, Elvis’s first attempt to reach Carter on June 13, 1977, was unsuccessful. However, the following day, the president returned the call, leading to an unsettling conversation.
During the call, Carter quickly realized that Elvis was in a distressed state, struggling to articulate his request. The singer’s speech was slurred and incoherent, raising concerns about his mental health. Carter explained that without a formal conviction, he was legally unable to grant a pardon, a frustrating setback for Elvis, who was clearly anxious about Klein’s predicament. Adding to the surreal nature of the conversation, Elvis expressed fears of being followed by “sinister forces,” a troubling revelation that hinted at his deteriorating mental state.
In the days following their call, Elvis attempted to reach Carter again. However, the president, wary after their previous interaction, chose not to take the call, recognizing that it might not yield any productive outcome. Eventually, Klein was acquitted of most charges but received a 60-day sentence for conspiracy, a mixed result that left Elvis feeling helpless.
This episode not only highlights Elvis Presley’s unwavering loyalty to his friends but also underscores the pressures he faced in his personal life during his final months. The haunting nature of this phone call serves as a reminder of the complex struggles behind the facade of fame. As fans reflect on this lesser-known story, it prompts questions about the intersection of celebrity, mental health, and the human experience.
