Take Two translates the day’s headlines for Southern California, making sense of the news and cultural events that affect our lives. Produced by Southern California Public Radio and broadcast from October 2012 – June 2021. Hosted by A Martinez.
Right now in heaven, there is a great reunion taking place, perhaps over a peanut butter, banana and bacon sandwich.
Joe Esposito was one of Elvis Presley's close friends and the only non-Southern member of his inner circle, the so-called "Memphis Mafia."
The two met in the Army in 1958. A few years later Esposito became something of a personal assistant to Elvis, helping him navigate various personal and business relationships. He was even there to drive Priscilla Presley to the hospital to deliver her daughter with "The King," Lisa Marie Presley, notes columnist John Katsilometes.
Katsilometes writes for the Las Vegas Review -Journal and met Esposito on a few occasions, interviewing him for what would have been Elvis's 75th birthday back in 2010.
He says Esposito was known for his "unassuming" way and his "matter-of-fact relationship with Elvis."
Esposito died last week at the age of 78 at his home in Calabasas, California.
To listen to the whole interview, click on the blue player above.