Riley Keough has always been more than just a Hollywood star. As the granddaughter of Elvis Presley, she carries a legacy that is deeply intertwined with music, fame, and American culture. At 35 years old, Riley has carved out her own identity as an actress, producer, and model, proving that her talents are as striking as her lineage.
Riley Keough’s Net Worth and Graceland Legacy
Riley Keough’s net worth stands at an impressive $20 million in 2025. A significant portion of her wealth comes from her inheritance. As the sole trustee of her mother Lisa Marie Presley’s estate, Riley controls the iconic Graceland mansion and a 15% stake in Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE). Graceland, with its storied history, remains one of the most visited landmarks in the United States, and Riley’s role in managing its legacy highlights her responsibility in preserving her family’s history.
The estate faced a legal battle following Lisa Marie’s sudden death in January 2023. Riley ultimately emerged as the sole trustee after resolving disputes with her grandmother, Priscilla Presley. This resolution secured Riley’s control over Graceland and the Elvis brand, further anchoring her place in her family’s remarkable story.
Early Life: Growing Up Presley
Danielle Riley Keough was born on May 29, 1989, in Santa Monica, California, to Lisa Marie Presley and musician Danny Keough. As the eldest grandchild of Elvis and Priscilla Presley, Riley grew up surrounded by fame. However, her upbringing was far from ordinary. After her parents’ divorce in 1994, Riley split her time between Los Angeles, Hawaii, and Graceland in Memphis.
Riley’s family dynamics were complex. Her mother’s marriages to Michael Jackson and Nicolas Cage brought even more attention to their lives. Despite the spotlight, Riley’s childhood was grounded by the time she spent with her father, who provided stability and a connection to a simpler life.
Riley also shared a close bond with her younger brother, Benjamin, who tragically died by suicide in 2020. The loss deeply impacted Riley, leading her to reflect on life’s fragility and her own path forward.
A Blossoming Career in Hollywood
Riley began her career as a model at just 15, walking for Dolce & Gabbana and appearing on the covers of prestigious magazines like Vogue and Elle Japan. However, her true calling was in acting. In 2010, she made her film debut in The Runaways, portraying Marie Currie.
Her breakout roles came with critically acclaimed films like Magic Mike (2012) and Mad Max: Fury Road (2015), the latter grossing over $375 million worldwide. Riley’s performance as Capable in the action epic showcased her range and ability to shine alongside an ensemble cast.
In 2016, Riley starred in The Girlfriend Experience, a Starz series that earned her a Golden Globe nomination. Her portrayal of Christine Reade, a law student navigating a double life, was praised for its depth and nuance. This role cemented her as a leading actress capable of tackling complex characters.
Riley’s career continued to flourish with films like Logan Lucky (2017), The Lodge (2019), and Zola (2020). In 2023, she took on the title role in the Amazon series Daisy Jones & The Six, based on Taylor Jenkins Reid’s best-selling novel. The series earned critical acclaim, and Riley received a Primetime Emmy nomination for her performance.
Personal Life and Relationships
Riley met stuntman Ben Smith-Petersen on the set of Mad Max: Fury Road. The couple married on February 4, 2015, in Napa, California, surrounded by friends like Zoë Kravitz and Kristen Stewart. Their relationship is a testament to their shared love of adventure and creativity.
Despite her fame, Riley has managed to keep much of her personal life private. However, she’s been open about her grief following Benjamin’s death, often sharing heartfelt tributes to her brother on social media. This vulnerability has endeared her to fans, who admire her strength in navigating such a profound loss.
Expanding Horizons: Producer and Advocate
In addition to acting, Riley has ventured into producing. She co-founded the production company Felix Culpa, which focuses on developing compelling, female-driven stories. This endeavor reflects her commitment to empowering women in Hollywood and championing meaningful narratives.
Riley is also a certified death doula, a role she took on after her brother’s passing. Her work as a death doula underscores her belief in the importance of supporting individuals and families during life’s most challenging moments.
Preserving the Elvis Legacy
As the steward of Graceland and Elvis Presley Enterprises, Riley plays a vital role in preserving her family’s cultural legacy. Graceland remains a pilgrimage site for fans of Elvis, and Riley’s leadership ensures that the estate continues to honor his memory.
Her commitment to this role is evident in her careful management of the Presley estate, which includes overseeing Elvis’s intellectual property rights. With a deep respect for her grandfather’s contributions to music and culture, Riley is ensuring that his legacy endures for generations to come.
