'Elvis' Actor Austin Butler Breaks Silence Following Lisa Marie Presley’s Death
'My heart is completely shattered," the star of the 'Elvis' biopic said of the late Lisa Marie Presley.
Austin Butler is speaking out after the tragic death of Elvis Presley's only daughter, Lisa Marie Presley.
Butler—the star of the new Elvis biopic—reacted to the devastating news of Lisa Marie's passing with a heartbreaking statement on Friday.
"My heart is completely shattered," Butler, 31, told PEOPLE following "the tragic and unexpected loss of Lisa Marie" on Thursday, Jan. 12.
Her death was confirmed by her mother, Priscilla Presley, on Thursday evening, after the singer-songwriter was rushed to the hospital earlier in the day.
"I am eternally grateful for the time I was lucky enough to be near her bright light and will forever cherish the quiet moments we shared," he added. "Her warmth, her love and her authenticity will always be remembered."
Earlier this week, Butler attended the Golden Globes alongside Lisa Marie and Priscilla, where he took home the award for Best Actor in a Motion Picture Drama for his performance as the late King of Rock 'n' Roll.
During his acceptance speech, Butler made a point to thank the Presley family, telling them, "Thank you for opening your hearts, your memories, your home to me. Lisa Marie, Priscilla, I love you forever."
Lisa Marie also spoke about Butler's performance during an interview on the red carpet Tuesday night, where she called the film, "Mind-blowing, truly mind-blowing. I really didn't know what to do with myself after I saw it."
"I had to take five days to process it because it was so incredible and so spot-on and so authentic. I can't even describe," she added in the interview, per Extra.
Less than 48 hours later, Lisa Marie was hospitalized after suffering a medical emergency at her home in Calabasas, Calif. Her mother confirmed the news, writing in a statement, "It is with a heavy heart that I must share the devastating news that my beautiful daughter Lisa Marie has left us."
"She was the most passionate strong and loving woman I have ever known. We ask for privacy as we try to deal with this profound loss. Thank you for the love and prayers. At this time, there will be no further comment," Priscilla concluded.
Olivia DeJonge, who portrayed Priscilla in the Baz Luhrmann film, also made a statement about Lisa Marie's death, writing via her Instagram Story, "Shattered. Privileged to have felt her magnificent presence. And forever indebted to her, for the kindness and support she showed me, and the entire Elvis family." She also sent her love to the rest of the family, including Priscilla and Lisa Marie's three daughters: Riley, Finley and Harper.
Her post featured the link to Luhrmann's own Instagram post about Lisa Marie, where he wrote in part, "Her sudden, shocking loss has devastated people all around the world. I know her fans everywhere join me in sharing prayers of love and support with her mother, Priscilla, and her wonderful daughters Riley, Finley and Harper."
Following the tragic news, tributes from fellow celebrities poured in for the late star. You can read some of the heartfelt messages on Parade.
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