The Hottest-Ever Photos of Austin Butler, a.k.a. the New Elvis Presley

07/16/2019

The actor, who dates Vanessa Hudgens, got his biggest break yet with a leading role in the new Baz Luhrmann film

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Introducing … Elvis Presley! This week, news broke that 27-year-old Austin Butler landed the role of The King, a coveted spot in director Baz Luhrmann’s latest movie that also features Tom Hanks.

The actor has been in the spotlight for a while, with current roles in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and The Dead Don’t Die, plus a string of TV hits and a stint on Broadway. He also happens to date Vanessa Hudgens.

“Throughout the casting process, it was an honor for me to encounter such a vast array of talent,” said Luhrmann. “I had heard about Austin Butler from his standout role opposite Denzel Washington in The Iceman Cometh on Broadway, and through a journey of extensive screen testing and music and performance workshops, I knew unequivocally that I had found someone who could embody the spirit of one of the world’s most iconic musical figures.”

Here, more reasons why he’s a perfect King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

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He’s Got the Brooding Look Down

A natural blond, he dyed his hair black for the part.

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He Looks Cute in Glasses

Not necessary to play Elvis, but bonus points.

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He Looks Great in a Tux

Hands in pockets, casual.

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He Looks Great in a Tux, Part II

Note the addition of a chain in 2019.

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He Walks the Dog

Just taking care of business, or “TCB” to Elvis.

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He Can See Into Your Soul

Or at least past the cameras at a photo call for his 2018 Broadway show, The Iceman Cometh.

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He’s in Step with His Girlfriend

Giving us fall feels.

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He’s Got the Messy Hair Thing Down

Exactly right for a SoCal-born kid.

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He Can Make PJs Fashion

Essential for any celebrity.

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He and Vanessa Are Beyond Adorable

Like Elvis and Priscilla, only better.

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He Stands Out from the Crowd

Much like The King.

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He’s Suave

Did he finish this look with blue suede shoes?

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He Can Rock a Leather Jacket

Perfect for a ride on one of Presley’s motorcycles or in one of his countless cars.

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He’s Supported

“I AMMMM OVERRRR THE F—— MOOOOOOOOONNNNN. I CAN’T WAIT ?????? SO PROUD OF MY HONEYYYYY!!!” Hudgens wrote on Instagram after the casting news broke.