Riley Keough, granddaughter of music icon Elvis Presley and daughter of the late Lisa Marie Presley, has revealed the deeply personal meaning behind her daughter’s name. The actress and producer, known for her roles in Daisy Jones & The Six and Zola, became a mother in 2022 and chose a name that carries both emotional weight and family legacy.
Keough named her daughter Tupelo Storm Smith-Petersen, a name that subtly honors two of the most important figures in her life: her grandfather, Elvis Presley, and her late younger brother, Benjamin Keough.
A Tribute to Elvis
The first name, Tupelo, is a reference to Tupelo, Mississippi—the birthplace of Elvis Presley. Keough explained that she wanted a meaningful yet understated tribute to her grandfather.
Unlike more obvious names like “Memphis” or “Elvis,” she felt Tupelo was a beautiful and unique way to nod to her roots without being too on-the-nose. It connects her daughter to the musical and cultural legacy of her family while maintaining individuality and subtlety.
Remembering Benjamin
The middle name, Storm, is in honor of Riley’s brother, Benjamin Storm Keough, who tragically passed away in 2020. Benjamin’s death had a profound impact on Riley, who has often spoken about the intense bond they shared. Sherry described him as her twin soul, despite being born years apart.
Choosing Storm as part of her daughter’s name was Riley’s way of keeping her brother’s spirit close and ensuring that his memory lives on in the next generation.
Welcoming Tupelo
Keough and her husband, Ben Smith-Petersen, welcomed their daughter via surrogacy in August 2022. Riley has openly discussed her health struggles, including Lyme disease, which influenced their decision to use a surrogate. She expressed deep gratitude for the woman who carried their child, calling the act incredibly selfless and powerful.
Despite her family’s fame and complex history, Riley emphasized her desire to raise her daughter with as much love, simplicity, and authenticity as possible. She shared that becoming a mother has been transformative, and that her priority is to be present and supportive in her daughter’s life.
Legacy and Love
By naming her daughter Tupelo Storm, Riley Keough has crafted a name rich with meaning—one that honors where her family comes from, and who they’ve lost along the way. It reflects a deep love for her heritage, and a commitment to carrying forward the memory of those she holds dearest.