Can you even call yourself a celebrity if you haven’t released a memoir or two? These days celeb memoirs can get a bad rap, but when done well they can offer juicy behind-the-scenes knowledge, Hollywood gossip, drama and insights into the darker sides of show business – all wrapped up in the perfect holiday-read!
It’s clear we are in a celebrity memoir boom yet again. Take a look at any best-seller list and there’s guaranteed to be one or two celeb’s taking out top spots.
And it isn’t just for the Michelle Obama’s and Matthew McConaughey’s of celebrity royalty – odds are any of your favourite celebs, no matter how niche they are have dabbled in the memoir space.
From Danny Trego revealing his experiences with cult leader Charles Manson during a prison sentence to Holly Madison’s tales from the Playboy mansion – there’s a celebrity memoir to suit anyone’s interests.
Below, we’ve rounded up the eight best celebrity memoirs you won’t be able to put down!
1. I’m glad my mom died by Jennette McCurdy
iCarly and Sam & Cat star Jennette McCurdy’s first book is undeniably the memoir everyone can’t stop talking about this year. The heartbreaking yet hilarious book explores McCurdy’s struggles as a former child actor and her difficult relationship with her mother.
2. My Story by Marilyn Monroe
Considering all the controversy surrounding the latest Monroe biopic, we think it’s best to learn about Marilyn Monroe from the woman herself. Written at the height of her fame yet only published a decade after her death, this autobiography sees Monroe provide a vulnerable account of her life from her childhood, experiences in the film industry and relationships.
3. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling
Mindy Kaling’s memoir is written so well it feels like Mindy herself is narrating her story. It’s hard not to hear her matter-of-fact voiceover from The Mindy Project as you read about her many lives: whether that’s as the obedient child of immigrant professionals, a Ben Affleck impersonating off-broadway performer, a playwright or a comedy writer. Not only was the book a bestseller for five weeks, but Mindy also released two more memoirs following the success of this one.
4. My Body by Emily Ratajkowski
My Body probably doesn’t fit all the criteria for a celebrity memoir, yet the series of personal essays which explore feminism, sexuality and power make this new release a must-read.
5. Over the Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love by Jonathan Van Ness
Before Jonathan Van Ness stole our hearts as the grooming and self-care expert of Netflix’s Queer Eye, they were growing up in a small midwestern town. Following the pain and passion Jonathan experienced throughout their childhood, there’s a reason this memoir became a New York Times bestseller!
6. Big Love: Reclaiming Myself, My people, My Country by Brooke Blurton
“My story is about the one thing that I never went without. Love. Big love, that filled me up and made me feel like there was a future for me. The kind of love that’s unconditional, and that lasts across time and space …”
This very new memoir is sure to be a big hit, giving audiences a look behind Brook’s public persona. Described as “raw, heartbreaking, often funny and ultimately life-affirming,” we are adding this to our reading lists ASAP!
7. Becoming by Michelle Obama
Sure, A memoir from an American politician’s wife may not seem interesting to Aussie audiences – but make no mistake, Michelle Obama offers an insightful view into life as the first African-American First Lady of the United States. Winning a Grammy, among many other awards, there’s a reason this memoir became so well-loved around the world.
8. Time of My Life by Myf Warhurst
Another relatively new memoir to add to the list! Myf Warhurst’s memoir intertwines music and memories to explore her early life and career in Australia’s music landscape. Best known for her work at Triple J and Spicks and Specks, Myf’s new memoir also offers rare insight into commentating at Eurovison.
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