Riley Keough, born on May 29, 1989, in Santa Monica, California, carries the weight of one of the most iconic last names in music history—Presley. As the eldest granddaughter of Elvis Presley and the daughter of Lisa Marie Presley, her lineage is steeped in rock-and-roll royalty. However, Riley has carved out her own path in Hollywood, making a name for herself as an accomplished actress, model, and producer. With an illustrious family background, a blossoming acting career, and a foray into modeling, Keough’s journey is one of resilience, talent, and perseverance.
Riley Keough’s family is one of entertainment royalty, but it is also marked by tragedy. Her mother, Lisa Marie Presley, was the only daughter of Elvis Presley, and her father, Danny Keough, is a musician. Riley’s lineage made her a part of the world’s most famous rock family, with her grandmother Priscilla Presley also an accomplished actress. However, fame brought its challenges. Her younger brother, Benjamin Storm Keough, tragically committed suicide in July 2020, a devastating loss for the family. Riley also has two younger half-sisters, Harper and Finley, from her mother’s fourth marriage to Michael Lockwood.
Despite the highs and lows, Keough has remained grounded and focused on building her career, choosing to step into the entertainment world on her own terms. Her family history may have given her a spotlight, but her work and determination have kept her there.
Keough’s entry into the entertainment world began at a young age. She started her career in modeling, gracing the runway for Dolce & Gabbana at just 14 years old. Her early success on the catwalk showcased her poise and beauty, eventually leading her to share a Vogue cover with her mother and grandmother—a family affair that highlighted the strong bond between three generations of Presley women.
While her start in modeling was impressive, Keough’s true passion lay in acting. She made her acting debut in 2010 in the film The Runaways, where she played Marie Currie. Despite the film not being a commercial hit, it gave her the exposure she needed and opened the door for more roles. Her next big opportunity came when she starred in The Good Doctor in 2011. Although the film itself did not elevate her career significantly, Keough’s performance was noted, and it was only a matter of time before she found herself in more prominent roles.
Riley Keough’s breakthrough moment came with her role in the critically acclaimed film Magic Mike in 2012. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film became a commercial success, and Keough’s performance as Nora, a young woman with romantic ties to Channing Tatum’s character, was well-received. This role helped establish her as a rising star in Hollywood, proving that she was more than just a Presley—she was a legitimate actress with talent and screen presence.
One of her most notable performances came in 2016 with American Honey, an indie film directed by Andrea Arnold. Keough starred alongside Sasha Lane and Shia LaBeouf, and her portrayal of Krystal earned widespread praise. The film went on to be nominated for the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, and Keough’s performance was instrumental in earning the film critical acclaim. This role marked a turning point in her career, showcasing her ability to tackle complex characters in unconventional films. Her work in American Honey also earned her a nomination for a BAFTA Award for Best British Film.
In the same year, Keough starred in The Girlfriend Experience, a television series adaptation of Soderbergh’s 2009 film. Her portrayal of Christine Reade, a law student who works as an escort, was a daring role that demonstrated her range and depth as an actress. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination, further solidifying her place as one of Hollywood’s most promising talents.
Though acting became her primary focus, Keough’s modeling career has always been a significant aspect of her public persona. Her tall, statuesque figure and striking features made her a sought-after model from a young age. She continued to work in fashion, appearing in campaigns and on runways for major brands. Throughout her career, Keough has been a regular presence at fashion weeks and in major publications.
Her dual career in modeling and acting highlights her versatility. Whether she’s walking the runway or portraying complex characters on screen, Keough has managed to balance both worlds with grace. Her ability to navigate both industries has earned her respect in fashion and Hollywood, making her a multifaceted talent.
In 2015, Riley Keough married Ben Smith-Petersen, an Australian stuntman she met while filming Mad Max: Fury Road. The couple began dating in 2012 and quickly bonded over their shared love for adventure and film. Smith-Petersen has worked on major films such as The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies and Triple Frontier, and the couple’s relationship is marked by mutual support and collaboration.
Though Keough’s marriage is private compared to her public career, her relationship with Smith-Petersen has been steady and supportive. They have been together through significant personal challenges, including the tragic death of Keough’s brother in 2020. Despite the hardships, their marriage remains a strong and positive force in her life.
Keough’s career shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to explore new roles, with her most recent being in The Discovery and Logan Lucky. Keough is always evolving as an actress, taking on projects that challenge her and push her limits. Her ability to move between genres—from indie films to blockbusters—demonstrates her adaptability and skill.
As for her future in Hollywood, Keough’s career is one to watch. She has already made a significant impact in a relatively short time and continues to build on her family’s legacy while creating her own. With her acting talent, modeling career, and personal resilience, Riley Keough has proven that she is much more than the granddaughter of Elvis Presley—she’s a star in her own right.