Austin Butler.Photo: Todd Williamson/NBC/NBC via Getty
Austin Butleris reacting to hisfirst-ever Oscar nominationcoming during a “bittersweet” time.
On Tuesday, the 31-year-old star was nominated for Best Actor, earning recognition for his performance as Elvis Presley inElvis. Butler called in toToday with Hoda and Jennashortly after the announcement, which came just over a week since the death of Lisa Marie Presley.
“It’s sort of a bittersweet moment right now because I think of how much I wish she was here right now to get to celebrate with me. It’s the same thing I feel with Elvis; I wish that they could see these moments, you know? It’s just sort of strange to celebrate at a time of such deep grief. But I sort of think of it as a way to honor her. This is for her.”
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Elsewhere in the chat, Butler said of the role, “It was such a daunting undertaking, making this movie, and it was also a very long process. I just remember those sleepless nights and all the fear and all the possibilities for how it could have gone wrong.” He added, “Being recognized just feels very surreal and amazing.”
Lisa Mariedied suddenly on Jan. 12, just days after she and her mom Priscilla Presley attended the Golden Globes, where Butler won best actor in a drama.
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Butlerpaid tribute to Lisa Marie, saying in a statement that his “heart is completely shattered” for her children and mother after “the tragic and unexpected loss.” Lisa Marie was mom to daughter Riley Keough, 33, 14-year-old twins Harper and Finley, plus son Benjamin Keough, whodied in July 2020.
“I am eternally grateful for the time I was lucky enough to be near her bright light and will forever cherish the quiet moments we shared,” he said. “Her warmth, her love and her authenticity will always be remembered.”
Austin Butler and Lisa Marie Presley.Eric Charbonneau/Shutterstock
At a party celebratingElvisthe weekend before theGolden Globes(on Sunday, Jan. 8, Elvis’s birthday), Lisa Marie addressed the attendees and said her dad would be proud of the movie.
source: people.com
