Elvis Presley remains an irreplaceable American legend.
His electric chemistry with Ann-Margret lit up the screen in Viva Las Vegas (1964), especially during their playful duet, “The Lady Loves Me.”
But not everything went as smoothly as it seemed. Hidden bloopers and unnoticed mistakes still linger in the film. Curious about what you might’ve missed? Let’s dive in!
Viva Las Vegas became a landmark in film and music history, also earning the title of Elvis’s highest-grossing movie. Elvis stars as Lucky Jackson, a determined race car driver chasing victory in Las Vegas, while Ann-Margret shines as Rusty Martin, the spirited dancer who captures his heart.
Their sizzling chemistry burned both on and off-screen, but behind the glitz, there were hilarious goofs, quirky errors, and surprising moments even die-hard fans might’ve overlooked.
Elvis’ Box Office Crown Jewel
While many assume Blue Hawaii was Elvis’ biggest hit, Viva Las Vegas claimed the throne, earning $450,000 and outshining all 31 of his theatrical films.
Ann-Margret Over Elvis Presley?
It’s hard to believe, but Ann-Margret was so popular in the mid-1960s that some theaters billed her above Elvis! This highlights just how in-demand the Swedish-born star was at the time.
Why Was Viva Las Vegas Such a Hit?
The electric chemistry between Elvis and Ann-Margret, a lively soundtrack, and vibrant technicolor visuals showcasing both the stars and the neon-lit magic of Vegas made this film unforgettable.
The First Meeting
Ann-Margret, one of the most significant women in Elvis’ life, first met him in July 1963 at Radio Recorders studios in Hollywood. They were introduced on an empty MGM soundstage with just a piano—and sparks flew.
Passion on and off the Screen
From their first scenes together, it’s clear that Elvis and Ann-Margret shared undeniable chemistry, both in Viva Las Vegas and beyond.
Ann-Margret Outshined Them All
Ann-Margret’s boundless energy had overshadowed previous co-stars—until Elvis. He matched her charisma beat for beat, creating a partnership she later called her best ever.
Elvis Wanted to Marry Ann-Margret
In her memoir My Story, Ann-Margret revealed Elvis dreamed of marrying her. Their dates often included quiet moments overlooking the city, deep in conversation.
Why Didn’t It Happen?
Their fiery connection was undeniable, but they were too similar. Elvis, with his traditional views, saw Priscilla as a better match. Though they parted, Ann-Margret and Elvis remained close, exchanging letters for years.
When no flowers arrived after her 1977 show, Ann-Margret knew Elvis had passed. She was the only female co-star at his funeral.
The Hottest Dance Scene
While Elvis dominated the music with six solos, their dance to Viva Las Vegas stole the show. Ann-Margret embodied “dance like no one’s watching,” setting the screen on fire alongside The King.
Ann-Margret Steals the Spotlight
While Elvis brought his signature energy to the Viva Las Vegas dance scenes, let’s face it: Ann-Margret was in a league of her own. Her dancing is pure electric fire, outshining The King with every step.
Lip-Syncing Fail? Who Cares?
It’s hard to ignore that Elvis’ lip-syncing during the famous dance scene is, well, not great. But let’s be real—when Ann-Margret is throwing down, who’s even looking at Elvis?
Future Oscar Nominee in the Background
In the “What’d I Say” number, take a look at the woman dancing behind Ann-Margret. That’s Teri Garr, already making waves long before her Oscar nods. In one scene, she sports a white shirt with black trim and a black skirt, and in another, she’s rocking red, green, and blue stripes. A future star hiding in plain sight!
Hidden Gems in Viva Las Vegas
Speaking of familiar faces, did you know that Glen Campbell—yes, the singer and actor—played guitar on both “What’d I Say” and the title track? And don’t miss Red West, Elvis’ real-life buddy, who pops up multiple times throughout the film in uncredited roles. Keep your eyes peeled for him in various characters.
Ann-Margret’s Honest Confession About Elvis
At 83, Ann-Margret still has that magnetic energy. She was recently inducted into UNLV’s College of Fine Arts Hall of Fame, a testament to her lasting charm. In her reflections on her time with Elvis, she’s never been shy about her deep affection for the King—and who can blame her?
Even decades later, Ann-Margret continues to share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about Viva Las Vegas, ensuring that the film’s magic remains alive for new generations of fans. In a recent interview with the Las Vegas Review-Journal, she opened up about her special bond with Elvis, offering fresh insights and a personal perspective on their connection that fans hadn’t heard before.
So, whether you’re revisiting the film for the unforgettable music, the magnetic performances, or simply to soak in the timeless charm of old-school Hollywood, Viva Las Vegas will forever hold a unique spot in cinematic history.