On February 27th, 1969, 20-year-old Andy Kaufman wrote the following letter to his idol, Elvis Presley, and spoke of both his admiration for the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and his desire to meet him in person. It would be another 3 years until Kaufman’s now famous Elvis act was first televised—a performance which Presley himself later claimed to be his favourite Elvis impersonation.

Unfortunately, a portion of the letter is missing.

(Source: Jude Martins; Image above via YouTube.)

Transcript

Feb 27, 1969 Kaufman

Leavitt Hall

645 Beacon St.

Boston, Msses, Room 629 Dear Mr. Presley, Hi. Here I am at the old college desk writing you a letter for the first time in my life. Here I am twenty years old. I have been an “Elvis Presley fan” since my grandfather bought me a copy of Elvis’ Golden Records when I was seven. (Since then I have acquired every word you ever recorded, except three.) You are Elvis Presley. I am Andy Kaufman. One day I shall meet you. I shall shake your hand. I shall say “Hello.” I know you, ya know? I really do know you. I have seen [PORTION MISSING] as yours.) It’s just an idea, but if it can’t happen, can you arrange for me to just shake your hand and say hello? I mean, I’ve gone through a heckova lot these past few years, turning people on to you, dragging friends and parties to your movies. I don’t even drink, smoke, or curse anymore. Thanks for everything (No kiddin’, I feel like I’m writin’ to Santa Claus or somethin’.) Sincerely, Andy G. Kaufman