Despite being one of the most famous figures in pop history, Michael Jackson’s love life was far less scandalous than one might expect. Many may assume that, given his immense fame and the admiration of millions of fans, he led a life full of romantic encounters. However, Jackson’s ex-wife, Lisa Marie Presley, revealed some surprising details about his personal life that challenge these assumptions. In her posthumous memoir, From Here To The Great Unknown, Presley shared intimate accounts of her time with Jackson, including his claim that he remained a virgin until he was 35 years old.
Lisa Marie Presley: A Window into Their Relationship

Lisa Marie Presley, the only daughter of the legendary Elvis Presley, married Michael Jackson in 1994. Their relationship attracted intense media scrutiny, yet it was often misunderstood and oversimplified. Presley’s memoir, published after her untimely passing, provides a deeper understanding of their bond. It was written with the help of her daughter, Riley Keough, who made sure to portray her mother as a multifaceted person beyond the tabloid headlines.
Presley described a pivotal moment in Las Vegas when Jackson openly professed his love for her. At that time, Presley was still married to her first husband, Danny Keough. Despite the complicated circumstances, Jackson’s charm and heartfelt gestures won her over. Over time, she developed genuine feelings for him. However, despite their love and deep emotional connection, their marriage would only last two years before ending in divorce in 1996.
Jackson’s Virginity: A Claim That Surprised Presley

One of the most striking revelations in Presley’s memoir was Jackson’s claim that he remained a virgin until the age of 35. This piece of information stands out, given the world’s perception of him as an incredibly famous and sought-after celebrity. While Jackson did have relationships with prominent women, including actress Tatum O’Neal, model Brooke Shields, and singer Madonna, these connections were never fully intimate. Presley explained that these relationships did not progress beyond kissing.
Presley herself recalls feeling a sense of nervousness in their interactions, unsure about how to approach their intimacy. This, along with Jackson’s declaration of his virginity, paints a picture of a man who, despite being surrounded by fame and desire, had a rather unconventional and cautious approach to romance. Jackson’s claim challenges the common narrative about his private life, showing him in a different light.
The Two-Year Marriage: Love and Struggles

Despite the profound love they shared, Jackson and Presley’s marriage was not without its challenges. The intense public scrutiny, the pressures of being in the spotlight, and their differing personal lives all contributed to the eventual collapse of their relationship. Presley and Jackson had a unique bond, one filled with emotional depth and affection, but their time together was short-lived.
The marriage ultimately ended in divorce, which left both Presley and Jackson to move on with their respective lives. However, the brief time they spent together was far from ordinary, and it offers valuable insights into their personalities. Presley’s memoir provides readers with a rare glimpse into the emotional intricacies of their relationship, shedding light on what made their connection both special and difficult.
Legacy Beyond Public Personas
Both Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley are no longer with us. Jackson tragically passed away in 2009 at the age of 50 due to cardiac arrest, while Presley died in 2023 following complications from surgery. Despite their untimely deaths, the memoir written by Presley’s daughter ensures that their story lives on.