Elvis Presley death anniversary: Fans get surprise visit

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (KABC) -- Thousands of Elvis Presley fans converged on Graceland on Thursday to mark the 35th anniversary of his death and got a surprise visit from the King's former wife and daughter.

It was the first time Priscilla and Lisa Marie Presley have appeared together at the annual candlelight vigil. They appeared on an elevated stage in front of the crowd.

"You should see this from our point of view. It's amazing," Priscilla Presley said. "The candles are lit. It's truly a sight to behold."

Lisa Marie Presley told the fans she loved them for their devotion to her father. She also acknowledged she had shied away from making public appearances at past anniversary vigils.

"I've always avoided this because I felt that it would be too emotional, but I really felt it was important to come down here tonight," the singer's daughter told the crowd. "I love you very, very, very much."

Fans later moved up the tree-lined driveway to the right of the mansion, where the gravesite is located near a swimming pool. Heart-shaped wreaths made of red and white flowers lined the entrance to the site.

Elvis Presley died on Aug. 16, 1977, from a heart attack after battling prescription drug abuse.

Tours of Elvis Presley's Palm Springs estate are being offered Thursday through Saturday. The 5,100- square-foot home on Chino Canyon Drive was often referred to as Graceland West.

The home's owner says the King celebrated his last birthday at the house and recorded nine songs there.

For more information about the tour, visit http://elvispalmsprings.com.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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