Riley Keough’s rise to stardom has been anything but ordinary. As the granddaughter of the legendary Elvis Presley and daughter of the late Lisa Marie Presley, she carries a last name that defined American music. Yet, what makes her story truly fascinating is how she has carved out her own identity — not as an heir to fame, but as a self-made actress, producer, and creative powerhouse. Today, Riley Keough’s net worth reflects a career built on talent, resilience, and a determination to step out of her family’s shadow. Her journey through Hollywood offers an inspiring look at how legacy and individuality can coexist in perfect harmony.
Quick Bio Table
| Full Name | Danielle Riley Keough |
|---|---|
| Born | May 29, 1989 |
| Birthplace | Santa Monica, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actress, Model, Producer |
| Known For | “Daisy Jones & The Six,” “Mad Max: Fury Road,” “The Girlfriend Experience” |
| Parents | Lisa Marie Presley and Danny Keough |
| Grandparents | Elvis Presley and Priscilla Presley |
| Spouse | Ben Smith-Petersen (m. 2015) |
| Estimated Net Worth (2025) | Around $20 million |
| Years Active | 2010–present |
| Notable Awards | Gracie Award, Independent Spirit Award nomination |
A Hollywood Heritage Like No Other
Born into one of America’s most iconic families, Riley Keough’s early life was inevitably linked to the Presley name. Her mother, Lisa Marie Presley, inherited the vast cultural legacy of Elvis, while her father, Danny Keough, was a musician who kept a grounded presence in her life. Despite growing up between luxury and artistic influence, Riley’s upbringing was more modest than most would assume. Her parents divorced when she was young, leading her to split time between her mother’s world of fame and her father’s simpler lifestyle in Los Angeles.
This dual experience helped shape her independence. It also gave her a realistic view of fame — one she later used to build a meaningful career rather than chase superficial success.
RELATED CONTANT : Who Is Kelly South? Exploring Her Surprising Connection to Kid Rock
Early Career and Entry into Modeling
Before her name became synonymous with prestige in Hollywood, Keough first entered the entertainment world as a model. At age 15, she began working with major fashion houses, gracing runways for Dolce & Gabbana and appearing on the covers of Vogue and Elle. Modeling gave her a platform, but her true calling was in film. Her early exposure to creative industries, combined with her family’s musical heritage, made acting a natural transition.
Stepping Into Acting: A Star in the Making
Riley Keough’s film debut came in 2010 with The Runaways, where she starred alongside Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning. Her quiet yet magnetic screen presence drew attention, leading to roles in Magic Mike (2012) and Mad Max: Fury Road (2015). By the mid-2010s, she had already proven that she was not just “Elvis’s granddaughter” — she was a formidable performer with an emotional range few could match.
Her breakout role, however, came in 2016 with The Girlfriend Experience, a Starz drama that earned her a Golden Globe nomination. Critics praised her performance for its subtle intensity and modern complexity. This success not only cemented her as a serious actress but also significantly boosted her career earnings.
Diversifying Her Career: Producer, Entrepreneur, and Storyteller
As Riley’s filmography expanded, so did her ambition. In 2017, she co-founded Felix Culpa, her own production company, with friend Gina Gammell. The company’s mission was to champion female-led stories and bring underrepresented voices to the forefront of Hollywood.
Under her leadership, Felix Culpa produced the acclaimed film War Pony (2022), which won the Camera d’Or at Cannes. This marked her official transition from performer to storyteller — a move that not only enhanced her reputation but added significant value to Riley Keough’s fortune through backend production earnings and ownership stakes.
Wealth Sources: A Look Beyond the Presley Estate
Although Riley Keough inherited part of her mother’s and grandfather’s estates, her wealth isn’t simply the product of legacy. Her earnings come from multiple streams:
-
Film and Television Roles: Salaries from projects like Daisy Jones & The Six, The Girlfriend Experience, and Zola form a substantial portion of her income.
-
Production Ventures: Profits and producer credits through Felix Culpa add recurring value.
-
Endorsements & Modeling: Collaborations with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel continue to contribute to her income.
-
Real Estate Assets: Riley and her husband, stuntman Ben Smith-Petersen, own properties in Los Angeles that have appreciated significantly in recent years.
This balanced portfolio has helped her maintain a stable financial position independent of Presley family inheritance — a major achievement considering the weight of her family legacy.
The Daisy Jones Era: A Career-Defining Moment
Amazon Prime’s Daisy Jones & The Six became a turning point for Riley Keough. Playing a 1970s rock singer loosely inspired by Stevie Nicks, she delivered a performance that was raw, authentic, and deeply emotional. Her portrayal earned widespread critical acclaim, several award nominations, and an entirely new fan base.
More importantly, Keough performed her own vocals — a nod to her grandfather’s musical lineage — showcasing her talent beyond acting. The show’s success not only elevated her artistic status but reportedly increased Riley Keough’s net worth by several million dollars due to backend bonuses and royalties from the soundtrack’s chart-topping success.
A Life Balanced Between Fame and Privacy
Despite her growing fame, Riley Keough remains fiercely private. She’s often described as grounded, introspective, and family-oriented. In interviews, she speaks candidly about balancing her creative life with personal peace. She and her husband, Ben Smith-Petersen, welcomed their first child in 2022 — a moment she describes as the most meaningful chapter of her life.
Keough has also been open about the challenges of grief, following the passing of her mother, Lisa Marie Presley, in 2023. Taking on the role of co-trustee for the Presley estate, she’s handled family affairs with grace, demonstrating maturity and leadership far beyond her years.
Hobbies, Interests, and Personal Passions
Outside her on-screen success, Riley Keough maintains a creative and nature-inspired lifestyle. She often shares glimpses of her passions — from photography to music and wellness. Her interests include:
-
Traveling and exploring film cultures around the world
-
Writing and producing independent projects
-
Advocating for indigenous rights through film initiatives
-
Practicing yoga and mindfulness
-
Spending time outdoors with her family and rescue pets
These pursuits not only reflect her personal growth but reinforce her commitment to leading a life guided by authenticity and purpose — key themes that define her career and personal wealth.
How Her Legacy Shapes Modern Hollywood
Riley Keough represents a new generation of Hollywood royalty: one that values artistry over glamour. Unlike many celebrity heirs who rely on inherited fame, she’s earned respect for her craftsmanship. Through Felix Culpa, she actively supports emerging female filmmakers and Indigenous storytellers, marking a shift toward inclusivity and representation in modern entertainment.
Her Hollywood legacy, therefore, isn’t just inherited — it’s being rewritten. Keough’s ability to honor her Presley roots while building her own creative empire makes her one of the most respected figures of her generation.
RELATED CONTANT : Erin Barry Today: Life Beyond the Spotlight and Her Ties to Brent Barry
Net Worth in 2025 and Future Prospects
As of 2025, Riley Keough’s net worth is estimated at around $20 million, a figure expected to rise as she continues expanding her film and production ventures. With upcoming roles in several streaming projects and her growing presence behind the camera, financial analysts predict her total wealth could surpass $30 million within the next few years.
Her intelligent investment in storytelling, production ownership, and brand collaborations ensures a long-term, sustainable income — setting her apart from many actors who rely solely on box office paychecks.
Final Thoughts
Riley Keough’s journey from Hollywood royalty to independent creative visionary is a story of resilience, depth, and authenticity. While her name carries a powerful legacy, her success today stands on her own merit. She has redefined what it means to be part of a famous family — proving that legacy is not about inheritance, but about contribution.
In an industry often obsessed with fame, Riley Keough’s wealth is a reflection of dedication, not entitlement. Her story reminds us that true success in Hollywood isn’t born — it’s built.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Riley Keough’s current net worth in 2025?
As of 2025, Riley Keough’s estimated net worth is around $20 million, stemming from acting roles, production company profits, and brand partnerships.
2. Did Riley Keough inherit money from Elvis Presley?
Indirectly, yes. While Elvis Presley’s estate was primarily passed to Lisa Marie Presley, Riley became co-trustee after her mother’s passing, giving her partial inheritance rights.
3. What is Riley Keough best known for?
She’s best known for starring in Daisy Jones & The Six, The Girlfriend Experience, and Mad Max: Fury Road. Her performances showcase her natural charisma and emotional depth.
4. Is Riley Keough related to Elvis Presley?
Yes. She is Elvis Presley’s granddaughter, through her mother Lisa Marie Presley, making her part of one of America’s most famous entertainment families.
5. Who is Riley Keough married to?
She married Australian stuntman and actor Ben Smith-Petersen in 2015. The couple shares one child and often collaborates on creative projects.
6. What production company does Riley Keough own?
Riley co-founded Felix Culpa, a production company known for promoting diverse and female-driven storytelling in Hollywood.
7. How does Riley Keough earn most of her income today?
Her primary earnings come from acting salaries, producer credits, brand endorsements, and revenue from her company’s film projects.
FOR MORE : NEWS TAKER
