Elvis Presley feared touch due to constant sweating in his final years

Elvis Presley, often referred to as the 'King of Rock 'n' Roll', faced numerous personal struggles in the months leading up to his death on August 16, 1977. His former bodyguard, Ted Pryor, shared insights into Elvis' condition during this challenging time. According to Pryor, Presley was significantly overweight and suffered from a range of health issues, which led him to become uncomfortable with physical contact. He was known to be constantly perspiring and feeling hot, which made interactions difficult. This transformation in his physical state marked a stark contrast to earlier years when he was more physically active and engaging with fans. Pryor, a bodyguard and a champion kickboxer, reflected on how they were initially hired for security due to the overwhelming attention Presley received during performances. Women would often rush to the stage, leading to numerous encounters that required strong security measures. Pryor recalls the chaotic scenes where his team had to manage crowds, sometimes employing takedown techniques to ensure the safety of both Elvis and the fans. Such incidents revealed how the weight gain and physical discomfort altered Elvis's interactions with the public. Despite these struggles, Elvis maintained a reputation as a kind figure to those around him, especially his bodyguards. Pryor noted that while Presley seemed 'sour' due to personal losses—most notably the deaths of his mother and former wife—he treated his bodyguards well. This juxtaposition of a charismatic performer dealing with profound personal grief paints a difficult portrait of the man behind the music. The unexpected nature of Presley’s death shocked the world, prompting responses from notable figures, including former President Jimmy Carter. The profound impact of his loss was felt globally, signaling the end of an era in music and pop culture. Today, the discussions continue around Presley’s legacy, including his contributions to music and the challenges he faced in his last years.