Tonight, audiences across the UK can tune in to watch Priscilla, a romantic drama that delves into the complex love story between Priscilla Beaulieu and Elvis Presley. Airing on BBC Two at 10 PM on April 20, 2025, the film has garnered significant attention since its release, receiving an 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Written, directed, and produced by the acclaimed Sofia Coppola, Priscilla is based on the 1985 memoir Elvis and Me, authored by Priscilla Presley herself, who also serves as an executive producer for the film. The narrative takes viewers back to the late 1950s, showcasing the early days of Elvis and Priscilla's relationship, which began when she was just 14 years old and he was 24.
Premiering at the Venice Film Festival in 2023, Priscilla made its theatrical debut in the UK and Ireland on New Year’s Day in 2024, quickly grossing over £1 million during its first week. The film has been praised for its authentic portrayal of a love story set against the backdrop of fame and the challenges it brings.
The film opens with Elvis, played by Jacob Elordi, meeting Priscilla at a party in Germany while he was stationed there during his military service. Their relationship blossoms, but it soon becomes clear that the glitz and glamour of Elvis’s fame come with their own set of challenges. As their romance progresses, Priscilla moves from Germany to Memphis, only to find herself feeling isolated as Elvis spends much of his time away in Los Angeles.
In 1967, the couple marries, and Priscilla becomes pregnant, much to Elvis's delight. However, as Elvis's career skyrockets, their marriage begins to unravel under the strain of his prescription drug abuse, frequent absences, and infidelities. The film poignantly captures the emotional turmoil that ensues, leading the couple to drift apart after the birth of their daughter.
Critics have highlighted Cailee Spaeny’s performance as Priscilla, which has earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. Her portrayal is described as tender and nuanced, shedding light on the pressures faced by women in relationships with powerful men. Sofia Coppola spoke about the film's focus on Priscilla's journey, stating, "I wanted to focus on the struggles and pressure I felt she must have been under to be this ideal woman.”
In an interview with Deadline, Coppola reflected on Priscilla's perspective on her relationship with Elvis, noting, "She had a full relationship with him, they were married, and they had a child. She still looks at it as the great love of her life.” This insight adds depth to the film, illustrating how Priscilla navigated her identity amidst the complexities of her marriage.
As audiences prepare to watch Priscilla tonight, they can also catch a variety of other films airing across different channels. On RTÉ One, Thirteen Lives will be showing at 9:30 PM, while Fall airs on BBC Three at 9 PM. For family-friendly options, Shrek 2 will be on TG4 at 4:50 PM, and classic films like The Game and The Devil Wears Prada will also be featured on Legend Xtra and E4, respectively.
Overall, Priscilla stands out as a significant film that not only tells the story of a legendary couple but also explores the deeper emotional landscape of love, fame, and personal identity. With its release, viewers are invited to reflect on the complexities of relationships and the sacrifices that often accompany them. As the film airs tonight, it promises to be a compelling watch for anyone interested in the intricate dynamics of one of music's most iconic figures and his enduring love.
