In a heartfelt and revealing interview on the popular podcast “Call Her Daddy,” Riley Keough, the daughter of the iconic Lisa Marie Presley, shared her thoughts on parenting and reflected on her mother’s marriage to Michael Jackson. This candid discussion was not just about family stories but also about the big differences in how she plans to raise her kids compared to how she grew up.
A Glimpse into Riley’s Family Life
During the podcast, Riley delved into what it was like to grow up as the daughter of a famous mother. She spoke lovingly about her mother, Lisa Marie, and how Lisa’s rich and extravagant lifestyle was a stark contrast to her own parenting approach today. Riley emphasized that her priority is to help her daughter, Tupelo—who is just two years old—find joy in the simple things in life, rather than in opulence. She stated, “I want my kids to enjoy everyday experiences without feeling overwhelmed by lavishness. It’s about normal activities, not just the big, exciting events.”
Reflecting on Lisa Marie’s Life with Michael Jackson
In the podcast, Riley also opened up about her mom’s marriage to the pop legend Michael Jackson. She shared insights that highlighted her mother’s genuine love for Jackson, noting how their affectionate bond stood out even amidst their extravagant lifestyle. Riley said, “I saw their love firsthand; it was real. My parents kept us away from many conflicts, and I appreciate that. They always presented a united front to me and my brother.”
Learning from the Past
Riley acknowledged the difficulties her mother faced after marrying Jackson, including handling public scrutiny and the controversies surrounding him. She further revealed how Lisa Marie’s past experiences, including her own struggles with addiction, changed their mother-daughter relationship over the years. There was a time when Riley took on a caretaker role during her mom’s struggles, which allowed Riley to learn valuable lessons about empathy and resilience. She said, “It was a changing dynamic, and it taught me a lot about what it means to support someone you love.”
A Different Approach to Parenting
Riley made it clear that her choices as a parent are influenced by what she experienced as a child. Inspired by her mom’s loving but sometimes overwhelming parenting style, she aims to create a more balanced environment for her own kids. She described her mother’s parenting as loving yet lacking in boundaries, calling it a “southern style” that can sometimes feel smothering. While she admires Lisa’s intentions, she recognizes the need for her children’s emotional independence, aiming to prevent them from feeling responsible for her happiness. “I want to teach my kids that happiness comes from within, not from fulfilling the needs of others.”
Keeping Family Traditions Alive
Another interesting part of the podcast was when Riley talked about family traditions. She and her mother, Lisa Marie, shared a special bond that extended to getting matching tattoos in memory of Riley’s late brother, Ben Keough, who tragically passed away in 2020. It’s just one of the many ways Riley keeps her family’s memory alive and honors their legacy.
| Family Member | Key Insight |
|---|---|
| Riley Keough | Aims for a simpler parenting style emphasizing everyday joys. |
| Lisa Marie Presley | Provided a rich, sometimes overwhelming upbringing filled with affection. |
| Michael Jackson | Had a genuine love for Lisa Marie, despite controversies. |
Overall, Riley Keough’s insights into her parenting philosophy present a refreshing perspective on blending tradition and modernity in family life. She stands as a testament to how experiences shape the future, illustrating that while the past informs our actions, the future is shaped by the choices we actively make for our loved ones.