Quick Facts
Biography
Jerry Schilling (born February 6, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee) is a veteran music industry professional, best known for his association with Elvis Presley since 1954 (see Memphis Mafia). He managed the Beach Boys for over 10 years, Jerry Lee Lewis and Presley's daughter, Lisa Marie.
Relationship with Elvis Presley
Presley and Schilling met on Sunday, July 11, 1954. Schilling was only 12 years old and was invited by Red West to join him, Presley, and others in a football game. Presley was the quarterback and threw a pass at Schilling. Since it was such a good catch, Schilling was invited back to play games every Sunday for a couple of years until Presley was too busy traveling to be able to play. A couple of years later, Schilling paid a visit to Presley and rekindled their friendship. Not long after, Presley asked Schilling to join his entourage, which came to be known as the "Memphis Mafia", and he agreed. A couple of hours later, they were ready to hit the road.
As their friendship grew, Presley bought Schilling a house, in which he still lives today.
He co-edited Elvis on Tour with Martin Scorsese.
Schilling is portrayed by Alex Pettyfer in the 2016 film Elvis & Nixon.
Extensive interview
- Remember Elvis Produced by Diamond Joe Esposito and Daniel Lombardy (2006) TCBJOE Publishing (ISBN 0977894525)