24 January 2023 , 18:53
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Austin Butler has dedicated his first-ever Oscar nomination to Lisa Marie Presley, following her tragic death at the age of 54.
The 31-year-old Hollywood star has received a Best Actor nomination for his performance as Elvis Presley in Baz Luhrmann's biopic Elvis.
Speaking about the recognition, Austin said it is a "bittersweet moment" and wishes Lisa Marie could celebrate the news with him.
Lisa Maire, the only child of Elvis Presley died on January 12 after being rushed to hospital in cardiac arrest. Despite their best efforts, medics were unable to save her.
Speaking about the recognition, Austin said: "It's sort of a bittersweet moment right now because I think of how much I wish she was here right now to get to celebrate with me.
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Austin Butler has dominated US awards season (NBC via Getty Images)
Lisa Marie Presley sadly died earlier this month (Getty Images for Icelandic Glacial)"It's the same thing I feel with Elvis; I wish that they could see these moments, you know?"
During an interview on the Today show, Austin added: "It's just sort of strange to celebrate at a time of such deep grief. But I sort of think of it as a way to honour her. This is for her."
Speaking about his performance in the film, Austin described it as a "daunting" role.
"It was such a daunting undertaking, making this movie, and it was also a very long process.
Austin and Lisa Marie had developed a close friendship (Shutterstock)
He dedicated his nomination to her (2023 Shutterstock)"I just remember those sleepless nights and all the fear and all the possibilities for how it could have gone wrong."
He added: "Being recognized just feels very surreal and amazing."
Just days before her death, Lisa Marie and her mum Priscilla Presley attended the Golden Globe Awards where Austin won Best Actor in a Drama.
Austin paid tribute to the singer-songwriter following her death and said his "heart is completely shattered".
"I am eternally grateful for the time I was lucky enough to be near her bright light and will forever cherish the quiet moments we shared," he said in a statement.
"Her warmth, her love, and her authenticity will always be remembered."
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Austin will be going up against Colin Farrell and Bill Nighy, who also received their first Best Actor nominations at the Oscars.
Colin was nominated for The Banshees Of Inisherin and Bill for his role in the film Living. Also nominated in the category were Irish actor Paul Mescal for Aftersun and Brendan Fraser for The Whale.