On November 15, 1956, Elvis made his big screen debut with the film “Love Me Tender” directed by Robert D. Webb, and released by 20th Century Fox.
Originally titled The Reno Brothers, the movie was renamed before its release after advance sales of the song Love Me Tender, ” which Clint Reno sings during the film.
Elvis’ manager, Colonel Tom Parker, negotiated with film producer Hal Wallis so Elvis could make films with other studios, which is how “Love Me Tender” happened.
20th Century Fox set a deal with Parker in August 1956 for Elvis to appear in Love Me Tender for $100,000 and co-star billing.
Love Me Tender premiered at New York City’s Paramount Theater with 1,500 fans lining up the night before. The movie opened nationwide on November 21.
Presley had shown interest in acting even before his success as a singer. When he first met his future manager, Colonel Tom Parker, he expressed an interest in acting in film.
“I’ve talked to a lot of producers and directors in Hollywood, and they all give you advice … they told me that I had good possibilities,” He continued, “I have never read a line, I never studied acting, never been in any plays or anything, I just got out there.”
Producer David Weisbart said during the filming that Presley was “humble, polite, solicitous… He was cooperative with us, never late, and very serious about acting. This was another kind of career for him.”
The film grossed $540,000 in its first week of release, claiming the No. 2 spot at the box office and earning back the production costs.
Elvis starred in 31 feature films as an actor between 1956 and 1969; his final film was Change of Habit.
Ask us! What questions do you have about content, strategy, pop culture, lifestyle, wellness, history or more? We may use your question in an upcoming article!
Like MediaFeed’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was syndicated by MediaFeed.co
