Elvis Presley is a cultural legend like no other—his charisma simply can’t be duplicated.
His on-screen spark with Ann-Margret in the 1964 classic Viva Las Vegas is unforgettable, especially during their lively duet, “The Lady Loves Me.” But while the film dazzled fans with charm and chemistry, not everything behind the scenes went off without a hitch. Hidden bloopers and lesser-known mishaps slipped under the radar—until now. Ready to dive into some delightful details you might have missed?
Presley and Ann-Margret’s partnership in Viva Las Vegas created a landmark moment in movie and music history. The film, which follows Presley as Lucky Jackson, a spirited race car driver chasing victory in Vegas, and Ann-Margret as the vivacious dancer Rusty Martin, turned out to be Elvis’ top box office success.
In my view, it’s one of the most overlooked gems in his filmography.
Beyond the stellar performances, the movie serves as a nostalgic snapshot of vintage Las Vegas—complete with landmarks that have long since vanished.
Their sizzling chemistry wasn’t just for the cameras. Off-screen, the duo shared a genuine bond. But beyond the glitz and romance, the film is filled with amusing mistakes and behind-the-scenes curiosities that even loyal fans may have missed.
A Surprising Box Office Champion
For years, I assumed Blue Hawaii was Elvis’ biggest hit. If you’d asked me to guess which of his 31 films earned the most, I’d have put money on it.
But in a twist, Viva Las Vegas actually came out on top, pulling in $450,000 more than Blue Hawaii. Despite mixed reviews at the time, it claimed the title of Elvis’ most financially successful film. Interestingly, it also holds the record for being the shortest of his movies, clocking in at just 85 minutes.
When Ann-Margret Took Top Billing
It might seem odd now, given Elvis’ legendary status, but back in the day, some theaters promoted Ann-Margret above him on the marquee. Her popularity in the mid-1960s was soaring, and studios weren’t shy about showcasing her star power.
A Focus on Form Over Subtlety
At only 22, Ann-Margret received both admiration and critique. A review in Variety—credited to a writer called “Tube”—commented on the film’s preoccupation with female physiques. The critique described how the camera frequently lingered on dancers’ curves, often sacrificing subtlety for visual pleasure. Still, Ann-Margret’s talent shone through, even when the lens wasn’t always flattering.
Neon Nostalgia: Vegas Then vs. Now
The movie helped cement Las Vegas’ global reputation as a vibrant entertainment hub. But of all the casinos shown during the film’s 1964 opening, only six are still standing today. It’s a reminder of just how much the city has evolved.
Filming took place at various Vegas hotspots before Elvis’ wedding to Priscilla or his legendary shows at the International Hotel (now the Westgate).
What Made Viva Las Vegas So Beloved?
The film’s lasting appeal boils down to a few standout elements: magnetic performances from its leads, an upbeat and catchy soundtrack, and vivid Technicolor scenes that perfectly captured the thrill of Sin City and the sizzling chemistry between Elvis and Ann-Margret.
When Elvis Met Ann-Margret
Ann-Margret would later recall the first time she met Elvis in July 1963 at the MGM soundstage. With only a piano and a handful of onlookers present, the stars were introduced by director George Sidney. They both nervously joked that they’d “heard a lot” about each other—sparking a connection that would grow quickly.
Instant Chemistry On and Off Camera
Still photos and film scenes reveal what words can’t fully capture—there was genuine passion between them. Ann-Margret had previously outshined her male co-stars, but with Elvis, she found an equal. Their scenes buzzed with real emotion, and they created a bond that, according to Ann-Margret, was the strongest on-screen connection of her career.
“We both felt an energy we couldn’t ignore,” she once said.
Producers recognized early on that the movie would only succeed if the love story felt believable—and from day one, sparks flew.
Elvis Wanted to Marry Her
Ann-Margret revealed in her autobiography My Story that Elvis had proposed marriage. Their time together was intimate and honest—driving into the hills, talking for hours, and connecting deeply.
“We were soulmates,” she wrote. “Despite our fame, we were both still emotionally fragile and childlike in many ways.”
But there was a catch—Elvis was already involved with Priscilla. In fact, he had invited her to live with him in Memphis a year before the film’s release.
Bonding Over Shared Passions
Elvis and Ann-Margret had much in common. Both loved motorcycles, valued their families, held strong faith, and cherished privacy. Elvis even invited her out with his inner circle one night in Vegas, a sign of trust and comfort.
Billy Smith, Elvis’ cousin, said Ann-Margret made Elvis’ life easier—she accepted him as he was and never tried to change him, unlike Priscilla, who reportedly struggled to understand his need for his entourage.
Why Their Romance Couldn’t Last
Despite their strong connection, Elvis and Ann-Margret were too much alike. Both intense and impulsive, they mirrored each other’s flaws. Ultimately, Elvis’ traditional views on marriage led him to choose Priscilla, whom he felt better fit that role.
They ended things with affection and mutual understanding, continuing to exchange love letters long after the film wrapped. Elvis continued to send her flower arrangements shaped like guitars for every Vegas show—until the one time he didn’t, in 1977, when he passed away. Ann-Margret was the only one of his former leading ladies to attend his funeral.
Behind-the-Scenes Friction
Although the film seemed light and fun, there was tension behind the scenes. Elvis reportedly grew frustrated with director George Sidney for favoring Ann-Margret in camera angles, which he felt downplayed his own presence. According to Red West, Elvis vented to his crew that Sidney was trying to “cut him out.” His manager, Colonel Tom Parker, swiftly confronted the filmmakers, reminding them it was an “Elvis Presley picture.”
A Dance Scene to Remember
Elvis had six solos in the movie, while Ann-Margret had two. But one particular dance number—Viva Las Vegas—was unforgettable. The fiery choreography by David Winters let Ann-Margret steal the scene. Fans still say it’s one of the rare moments where Elvis truly shared the spotlight with a dancer who could keep up.
Though Elvis gave his usual energetic performance, Ann-Margret’s magnetic presence made it almost impossible to look away.
Lip-Sync Slip-Ups
In the same sequence, eagle-eyed viewers might catch Elvis struggling with the lip-sync. But with Ann-Margret’s dazzling performance front and center, most fans didn’t even notice.
Future Stars in the Background
During the “What’d I Say” number, you can spot a young Teri Garr dancing in the background—years before her Oscar nominations. She’s the one in a white-trimmed black outfit. In another scene, she appears in a multicolored striped top.
Also present on the soundtrack is Glen Campbell, who played guitar on both the title song and “What’d I Say.” And Red West, Elvis’ longtime friend, pops up several times as various uncredited characters.
A Funny Continuity Goof
In one scene, Lucky (Elvis) is shown with white tape on his fingers, which mysteriously appears and disappears mid-performance during “What’d I Say.” It’s a small goof, but a fun one to catch.
A Questionable Crash
One unintentionally hilarious moment comes during the film’s race finale. Elvis’ competitor, Count Mancini, crashes dramatically. But instead of reacting with concern, Lucky offers a nonchalant “that’s a shame” and zooms to victory. The Count, miraculously unharmed, even attends the wedding at the end—classic Hollywood magic.
Ann-Margret’s Lasting Memories
Now in her 80s, Ann-Margret continues to enchant audiences. She was recently honored by the UNLV College of Fine Arts and shared heartfelt stories from her time with Elvis.
In one interview, she admitted: “I had never seen him perform before we met on set. We discovered we were so alike—quiet off-stage, but transformed when performing. He adored his mother, and I was deeply close to my parents.”
Whether you’re watching for the iconic music, vibrant visuals, or just for a dose of retro Vegas charm, Viva Las Vegas remains a beloved time capsule.
So take another look, enjoy the nostalgia, and relive the magic created by two of the most electrifying stars in Hollywood history.
