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Why Elvis channeled Marlon Brando in iconic leather look

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For Elvis Presley fans, a new Netflix documentary is a goldmine of untold stories.

In the singer’s epic comeback special, we get a sneak peek behind the scenes, where he opens up about being fed up with Hollywood’s cash-grab musicals and how badly he wanted to get back on top.

Elvis Presley’s life continues to captivate us, even 47 years after his passing.

It’s almost unimaginable that he was only 42 when he left us, especially considering the legacy he left behind. But now, a new Netflix documentary, Return of the King: The Fall & Rise of Elvis Presley, takes us deeper into the King’s personal struggles and his iconic 1968 comeback.

For fans, the documentary offers a rare behind-the-scenes look, featuring never-before-seen clips and new interviews with Presley’s ex-wife, Priscilla Presley, and his close confidante/business partner, Jerry Schilling.
Elvis’ heartbreaking confession
The film also dives into the raw moments leading up to Elvis’ ’68 Comeback Special — a turning point in his life and career. Aired on NBC on December 3, 1968, it marked Presley’s return to live performance after a seven-year hiatus, a period in which he focused mainly on film roles.
Directed by Jason Hehir, the film sheds light on Presley’s frustrations with Hollywood and his quest to redefine his career.
 
“I was interested in exploring his decision to play in front of a live audience for the first time in seven years,” says Hehir. “1968 was the biggest crossroads of Elvis’s life. It made sense to take a deep dive.”
In the documentary, we hear Elvis’s candid frustration with the image Hollywood had created for him. “Hollywood’s image of me was wrong, and I knew it, and I couldn’t do anything about it,” Presley confesses. “I didn’t know what to do. I just felt I was obligated to things I didn’t fully believe in.”
“That to me is a crime”
Perhaps one of the most emotional moments of the documentary is when Priscilla Presley watches a clip of Elvis performing the children’s song ”Old MacDonald Had a Farm” in the 1967 film Double Trouble.
“That to me is a crime,” Priscilla says, her voice tinged with sadness.
“It is a crime. To put him in that situation and sing that song. It made him a laughingstock. And he knew it.”
Elvis’s film career had been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. While he initially starred in a string of successful films, his later years in Hollywood felt increasingly limiting.
By the mid-1960s, his roles in formulaic, cash-grab musicals frustrated him. His dream of being the next James Dean or Marlon Brando seemed more out of reach than ever. Jason Hehir reveals that Elvis sometimes became “physically ill” thinking about his film career.
“He was frustrated, but he was also disillusioned. He wanted more.”
Elvis frustration boiled over
In 1968, after seven years of no live performances and increasingly mediocre films, Elvis was at a crossroads. His frustration boiled over, and he decided to make a bold move — returning to the stage.
The former teen idol was eager to reclaim his throne, but few realize just how uncertain and terrified Elvis was before stepping back onto the stage.
”He almost didn’t leave his dressing room,” Hehir explains. ”He was terrified of going back out in front of an audience, and he always had horrible stage fright. This goes back to the days of Ed Sullivan and the early days of performing in his career. He always had tremendous anxiety about going out and performing in front of people. But then, once he got out there, that’s where he was the most comfortable in the world, on a stage with a microphone in his hand.”
Truth behind iconic outfit
Once he did step onto that stage, he wasn’t just any performer — he was a man reinventing himself. There’s an iconic photo of Elvis performing that night, where he famously channeled one of his acting idols, Marlon Brando, by wearing a black leather suit. But why?
It all started when show producer Steve Binder discovered a photo of Elvis sitting on a Harley Davidson, rocking a leather outfit that screamed Marlon Brando in The Wild One. Inspired by the image, he showed it to costume designer Bill Belew, asking if he could create something similar for Elvis to wear during the show.
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Belew, ever the visionary, suggested designing a custom leather ensemble that would be uniquely Elvis — perfect for his big comeback.
Belew initially envisioned Elvis in a bold, Napoleon-inspired look, with a high-collared leather jacket that framed his face perfectly. To complete the outfit, he paired it with soft silk shirts and a scarf around his neck. But would the King approve? Absolutely. Elvis was on board with the vision, and together, they settled on the final design.
The outfit made its way into both the arena and improvisation segments of the special. While Binder hadn’t fully anticipated how scorching hot the stage lights would be, Belew had a feeling that Elvis, ever the professional, would still love the outfit — even if it meant sweating under the intense heat.
 
The story behind Elvis’s iconic outfit has been known for some time, but with the advent of new AI technology, old black-and-white photos can now be colorized, offering an even stronger sense of how groundbreaking Elvis’s look was.
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The bold black leather jacket, in particular, is often seen as a powerful statement —many have interpreted it as Elvis’s way of showing the world that he still had it, proving that the King was back and ready to reclaim his throne.
The comeback was also a resounding success, with the special earning huge viewership and the soundtrack hitting the top ten on the Billboard 200.
”He hadn’t performed in seven years… so many things had changed since he was the guy who could captivate audiences,” Hehir says. ”He used to have screaming teenage girls, but those teenage girls were now mothers.”
Changed almost everything in his life
Sure, the album sales weren’t exceptional, especially when compared to the huge success Elvis Presley had achieved earlier.
However, the success of the TV special gave his career new life and literally paved the way for his return to live performances.
In the end, it changed almost everything in his life. Elvis was back — so was his artistry and dignity. But despite that, his self-image as an actor never really recovered. Hollywood had damaged him too much, and it was something he could never fully get over.
”We still don’t know what kind of actor Elvis could have become,” Hehir reflects. ”His movie career just dried up. It was so mismanaged that he never got a chance to develop as an actor and demonstrate any sort of acting skills. . . . But I think he also recognized what he truly loved.”
PROC. BY MOVIES

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HEARTBREAKING ‘The Voice’ Winner—Shot and Airlifted in a Tragic Turn of Events

December 22, 2024 – Country music fans and the broader community are rallying around Jason “Sundance” Head, the beloved country singer known for his soulful performances and triumph on season 11 of The Voice in 2016, following a harrowing shooting accident on his Texas ranch. The incident, which occurred on November 15, 2024, has left fans relieved and hopeful as Sundance recovers from his injuries.

The Incident: A Terrifying Accident
On the serene morning of November 15, 2024, Jason “Sundance” Head was tending to his Texas ranch, a place he cherishes for both its tranquility and its role as a creative sanctuary. While preparing to retrieve his .22 caliber firearm from his vehicle, an unfortunate mishap led to the accidental discharge of the gun. The bullet struck him in the abdomen, resulting in a gunshot wound that sent shockwaves through his fanbase and the local community.

At the time of the accident, Sundance was alone on the ranch and did not have his phone with him. Despite being isolated, his quick thinking and presence of mind played a crucial role in ensuring his survival. Recognizing the severity of his situation, he made his way to a nearby main road. There, he flagged down a passing motorist, a fortunate encounter that proved vital in the hours that followed.

Immediate Response and Emergency Services
The motorist who stopped to assist Sundance was instrumental in securing the singer’s safety. Realizing the gravity of the situation, the motorist promptly contacted emergency services, ensuring that professional medical help was dispatched without delay. This swift response was critical in stabilizing Sundance and preventing further complications from the gunshot wound.

Paramedics arrived at the scene shortly after, providing immediate medical attention. Due to the nature of the injury and the rural location of the ranch, it was determined that airlifting Sundance to a hospital was the most efficient and effective course of action. He was transported to a state-of-the-art medical facility in Tyler, Texas, where a team of skilled surgeons and medical professionals took over his care.

Medical Evaluation: A Stroke of Luck
Upon arrival at the hospital, comprehensive medical evaluations were conducted to assess the extent of the injury. The preliminary scans revealed that the bullet had lodged into Sundance’s abdominal wall. Remarkably, it had missed all vital organs, a fortunate turn that significantly reduced the immediate life-threatening risks.
Given the location and trajectory of the bullet, the medical team decided that surgery was unnecessary. The decision to leave the bullet in place was made after careful consideration of potential complications versus the benefits of avoiding invasive procedures. Instead, the focus shifted to monitoring Sundance’s condition and ensuring that no further medical intervention was required.

Support from Loved Ones and the Community
Throughout his ordeal, Sundance’s wife, Misty, has been a pillar of strength and support. In the days following the accident, Misty took to social media to provide updates on Sundance’s condition. She expressed immense gratitude for the overwhelming support from fans, friends, and the community at large. Misty highlighted that Sundance’s larger physique may have played a role in the bullet missing critical areas, adding a personal touch to the narrative and underscoring the miraculous nature of his survival.

Misty shared a poignant photo of Sundance’s bloodstained shirt, a stark reminder of the seriousness of the incident. The image served to humanize the tragedy, allowing fans to grasp the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on the family. Her posts emphasized their relief at Sundance’s fortunate outcome and conveyed a heartfelt thanks to the medical team and the motorist who provided immediate assistance.

Recovery and Return to Normalcy
Following his treatment, Jason “Sundance” Head was released from the hospital and returned home to continue his recovery. The decision to remain at home allows him to heal in a familiar and comfortable environment, surrounded by loved ones. Despite the trauma of the incident, Sundance remains optimistic about his future and is determined to return to his passion for music.

Misty’s social media updates have been a source of comfort and reassurance for fans eagerly awaiting Sundance’s return. Her openness about the incident and the couple’s gratitude for the support they have received highlights the strength and resilience that have characterized their journey through this challenging time.

A Storied Career: From American Idol to The Voice
Jason “Sundance” Head’s rise to fame began as a semi-finalist on American Idol in 2007, where his unique voice and charismatic presence captured the hearts of millions. Although he did not win the competition, his performance laid the groundwork for a successful career in the music industry.

Sundance’s breakthrough came in 2016 when he won season 11 of The Voice. His victory on the popular talent show catapulted him into the national spotlight, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. Since then, he has released multiple albums, each showcasing his ability to blend traditional country sounds with contemporary influences. His soulful performances and relatable lyrics have solidified his place in the country music scene, making him a beloved figure among fans and peers alike.

Impact on Upcoming Performances and Future Plans
The shooting accident has inevitably raised concerns about Sundance’s upcoming performances scheduled for December. While no official announcements regarding potential cancellations have been made, the incident has cast a shadow over the planned events. Fans are anxious to see their favorite artist perform, but there is a collective hope that Sundance will prioritize his health and recovery.

Industry insiders speculate that Sundance’s management team is closely monitoring his condition and will make decisions based on his readiness to return to the stage. Given his resilience and passion for music, there is optimism that he will overcome this setback and continue to entertain his audience in the near future.

Jason “Sundance” Head’s shooting accident on his Texas ranch was a life-altering event that has captured the attention of fans and the community alike. Through swift action, medical expertise, and an outpouring of support, Sundance has emerged from the incident with his life intact and his spirit undeterred. As he continues to recover, the hope is that he will soon return to doing what he loves most – creating and performing music that resonates with people across the nation.

The resilience displayed by Sundance and his family serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of community support. As the country singer looks toward the future, his journey reminds us all of the importance of safety, the value of quick thinking in emergencies, and the enduring impact of music in bringing people together during difficult times.

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Prince Harry’s Triumph in the U.S. Brings Joy to King Charles During Recovery

Prince Harry’s recent success in the United States has sparked a wave of positivity within the royal family, particularly uplifting the spirits of his father, King Charles, who is recovering from a health battle. Harry’s achievements have not only bolstered his own career but also helped mend strained relationships between father and son. To honor his son’s efforts, King Charles has granted Harry a new royal title, marking a significant step toward reconciliation. This gesture reflects a shift towards healing within the family, signaling a new chapter of unity and mutual support.

The timing of this development is notable, as it comes when King Charles is navigating the challenges of cancer recovery. Despite the private nature of his health struggle, the King’s ability to witness such a positive turn in his family dynamic has been a source of comfort. The news has been met with widespread approval, particularly from royal fans in the UK who see this as a hopeful sign of familial unity.

The granting of a new royal title to Prince Harry is symbolic of a broader reconciliation process. Royal experts view this move as an acknowledgment of Harry’s perseverance and the King’s desire to restore harmony. The gesture not only honors Harry’s personal and professional achievements but also represents the King’s ongoing commitment to healing relationships within the royal household.

Over the past few years, Prince Harry has faced significant public scrutiny, especially due to his departure from royal duties. However, his recent triumphs in the U.S. have shifted the narrative, showcasing his resilience and ability to overcome challenges. This success has further solidified his place within the royal fold, with King Charles’s gesture of granting him a title serving as an official recognition of this positive development.

The new title marks a turning point for the royal family, highlighting the strength of family ties even in times of adversity. As King Charles continues his recovery, it is clear that the bond between father and son is being repaired. This heartening story of perseverance and reconciliation serves as a reminder that even in the face of hardship, love and family support can pave the way for healing.

In conclusion, Prince Harry’s triumph in the U.S. has brought joy and hope to King Charles, signaling the beginning of a new chapter for the royal family. The new title granted to Harry reflects not only his professional success but also the ongoing efforts to mend family relationships. The royal family’s journey toward unity is now seen as a source of inspiration, reminding the world that even the most challenging circumstances can lead to moments of healing and renewal.

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What’s the First Color You See? The Answer Says a Lot

People may not always get the results they want on personality and IQ tests, but they are fun to take to pass the time. Based on the results of this personality test, the first color you see might tell someone something about you.

There are lots of fun and interesting personality tests you can take while you wait at the doctor’s office or the DMV. Even though they aren’t always true, they can be funny sometimes because the things they talk about are real. For example, this personality test looks at the first color a person sees to get a sense of how they see themselves and what kind of person they probably are.

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Purple

Purple is a color that is often linked to intelligence, creativity, and power. If the first color you see on this personality test is purple, you are probably a unique person who leans toward conservative values and might even be scary to other people. Still, your willingness to change things drives you to be that change, and your light shines through when you do.

Gray Appeared First in the Personality Test

Gray is a basic color that looks good with a lot of different things. This is a refined but more lively color than black or charcoal. It’s a better choice for business or formal wear because it’s lighter and more cheerful. This color can be used instead because it is nicer and brighter. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that finding a gray coloration early on could mean that you are calm, reasonable, and very sensible. On the other hand, people who have trouble controlling their feelings may feel threatened or in danger.

Yellow First

Kids use yellow to show that it’s sunny outside and to make their faces look happy. The connection between color and happiness is like the connection between light and color. People often associate this color with new life and the start of spring. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that someone who got a yellow on the personality test is seen as hopeful. This is because the color yellow is linked to hope in a good way. They love what they do and make the most of every moment by enjoying each wonderful moment and living each day to the fullest. The sad truth is that people who are always unhappy about life will never be able to connect with someone who is always positive.

It’s possible that you didn’t notice just one of those three colors, even though they can give you some clues about who you are. Instead, it’s more likely that you saw two or three of them. You are more likely to be the same if the second color you saw was blue, brown, or green. This might make people with shady goals question your intentions.

The third Color Noted in the Personality Test

As was already said, you are probably smart if you saw blue, brown, or green after seeing two other colors. This could scare other people who might feel weak or unprepared. These people might be scared of how smart you are.

This personality test is just for fun, but it’s a great way to kill time when you have some free time. If you have trouble going asleep, this could be what’s wrong. It’s a great way to kill time when you don’t have anything else to do. Please look at the following list of more interesting personality tests.

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