One of the King's deepest regrets was missing the chance to act alongside Barbra Streisand, according to a new biography about legendary Hollywood agent Norman Brokaw, penned by his son, Joel Brokaw. The book, "Driving Marilyn," reveals that Elvis Presley was keen to star opposite Streisand in the 1976 remake of "A Star is Born," but his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, vetoed the idea.
Parker, known for his controlling influence over Presley's career, reportedly feared that Streisand's star power would eclipse the King. This decision, according to Priscilla Presley in Joel's book, was a significant point of contention between Presley and his manager. Elvis yearned for more substantial acting roles, inspired by actors like James Dean, but Parker preferred the lucrative formula of lighthearted musicals that fueled album sales and Las Vegas residencies.
Joel Brokaw suggests that Parker's concern might have stemmed from the shifting dynamics of the music industry at the time. While Presley's reign was facing challenges with the rise of acts like The Beatles, Streisand's career was ascending. This may have fueled Parker's apprehension about Presley being overshadowed.
The role eventually went to Kris Kristofferson. Streisand herself confirmed in her memoir that she had considered Presley and even met with him in Las Vegas to discuss the project. However, she cites financial disagreements and potential production clashes with Parker as reasons for the collaboration not materializing.
Presley's dissatisfaction with his film career is well-documented. A new Netflix documentary, "Return of the King: The Fall & Rise of Elvis Presley," delves into his frustration with the formulaic musicals he was often relegated to. The film highlights Presley's yearning for more challenging roles and his deep disappointment with the trajectory of his Hollywood career.
