On July 26, 1960, Elvis attended the 60th birthday bash for comedienne, Gracie Allen, at the Sahara Hotel, given by her husband, comedian George Burns. Four years later, Gracie passed away from a heart attack. The photo above was taken not long before her passing. She suffered for many years with heart issues that finally forced her retirement.
Col. Tom Parker had close associates in Las Vegas and also attended the party. Elvis sat with another guest, singer Bobby Darin. Darin was a close friend of George Burns and was the opening act for Burns' Vegas show. Darin was also a good friend of Elvis and, no doubt, yet another voice who regaled Elvis with the storied life and grandeur of Las Vegas, after Col. Parker, of course, who set his sights on Elvis performing "in house." The unfortunate thing for Elvis attending Gracie's party, however, was that he was not in a jovial mood, but suffering silently due to an absessed tooth. The photographs show slight swelling of his cheek and obviously discomfort.
George Burns welcomed the "king of rock and roll," and it was clear that both he and Gracie were fans. On one of their famous "Burns & Allen" television shows from the fifties, Gracie can be seen holding a current (at that time) Elvis Presley record album; a subtle promotion.
Some Photos from Gracie's Party
Still waiting to find a photo of Gracie with Elvis!
