There was an instant spark of magic between Joan Blackman and Elvis when they locked eyes in 1957. Despite being in a relationship with Priscilla Beaulieu at the time, Elvis was smitten by Joan and was determined to cast her in one of his films.

Despite numerous offers to help her career from him, she refused to take any roles that were not based on her talent and merit.

Joan went on to say that the first time she and Elvis looked at each other, they could almost feel the warmth and tenderness between them.

Joan and Elvis had many similarities, including the fact that they both had black hair and shared facial features. Nonetheless, Elvis’ feelings for Joan were undaunted, and he continued to try to persuade her to appear in his films until she agreed.