Ah, celebrities. We watch their lives play out in tabloids, on social media and between the pages of magazines. Yet despite the steady drip of content they provide, we often want to know more. What goes on behind the flashy façade of makeup artists, publicist-approved statements and more? The best celebrity memoirs are here to tell you.
Let’s explore the best books by celebrities for a juicy look into their star-studded lives.
1. Spare by Prince Harry
Few books have made a bigger splash in recent years than Prince Harry’s captivating tell-all. The British Heir, who has always garnered attention with his wild antics and charm, was cast even more steadily into the spotlight when he married Megan Markle and relocated to the United States. Much to the delight of those following his story, he wrote a memoir that documents his unprecedented journey to creating a new life outside the shadow of the monarchy.
If you’re seeking insights into royal life and personal growth then this is for you. Exploring Prince Harry's memoir is a must!
2. I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
If the book title alone doesn’t stop you in your tracks, the rave reviews on McCurdy’s debut book will. This brave read by the iCarly star documents not only a painful mother-daughter relationship but also McCurdy’s experience with childhood stardom, eating disorders and more.
Want a quick summary before diving in? Our honest Jennette McCurdy memoir review will help you decide if it's the right read for you. Beware: we do include some triggering topics and spoilers.
3. Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
This iconic actor may be best known for his sexy southern drawl—and we do recommend this one as an audiobook—but he’s got a lot of wisdom to share, too. In Greenlights, McConaughey details his meteoric, albeit unconventional, rise to fame and what he’s learned along the way.
4. Taste by Stanley Tucci
Tucci’s unique charm steals the scene in every film he’s part of, but it turns out acting isn’t his only skill. In Taste, Tucci recounts stories from a life centered on food. He generously shares his favorite recipes, along with anecdotes about the charming life you’ve always suspected he leads.
5. Bossypants by Tina Fey
Fey has proven her writing prowess on monoliths like Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock, and Mean Girls (to name a few), so it’s no surprise that her memoir is a hit. In Bossypants, Fey manages to make us laugh while artfully writing about feminism, motherhood and more. This one has topped best celebrity memoirs listed since it's launch, and we can see why.
6. Open Book by Jessica Simpson
If you think you’ve got Jessica Simpson figured out, we recommend you read this book. A reminder to take tabloids with a (major) grain of salt, Simpson upends her reputation as a “dumb blonde” and reveals herself as a complex woman with poignant stories about her battle with alcoholism, fame, heartbreak and more.
7. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? By Mindy Kaling
When it comes to relatable celebrities, there’s nobody you can imagine sharing a cup of tea with as easily as Mindy Kaling. Her first memoir proves that she has many of the same anxieties and life experiences as the rest of us—only it’s funnier when she tells them.
8. Wildflower by Drew Barrymore
The beloved star, known for her quirky disposition and sunshiny attitude, didn’t have a childhood to match. In her second celebrity memoir, she expands upon her chaotic formative years and shares the hard-earned wisdom she’s gleaned since—all with that trademark Barrymore glee.
9. My Life So Far by Jane Fonda
Walking the line between autobiography vs memoir with her book, Fonda is one of those celebrities who defies categorization. More than an actress, a model and an exercise mogul, Fonda is also a lifelong activist for women’s rights, the environment and more. In her first celebrity memoir, Fonda recounts a life of gutsy decisions, struggles with disordered eating, and everything else that got her where she is today.
10. The Girl With the Lower Back Tattoo by Amy Schumer
Schumer may be known for her irreverent comedy, but she’s also a talented essayist. In her first celebrity memoir, she shares what it’s like to be an introvert in the spotlight, her views on marriage, and how she became the outspoken woman she is today. Expect a hearty dose of laughter along with these entertaining stories.
11. Becoming by Michelle Obama
The former First Lady topped the New York Times Bestseller list with her celebrity memoir, which is an intimate look into her entire life. From her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her time at the White House, it’s infused with her trademark passion. Her dedication to education and public service is apparent throughout the book, making it an inspiring read.
12. Yes Please by Amy Poehler
Like her fellow SNL alum Tina Fey, Amy Poehler has written a fantastic memoir that makes a point while making you laugh. She shares a candid take on what it’s like to be a feminist, mother and woman in comedy. (And yes, there are plenty of fun stories about working at SNL.)
13. Not That Kind of Girl by Lena Dunham
Dunham is known for breaking the mold of how a Hollywood “it-girl” is supposed to look and act. As the creator of the hit television series “Girls,” Dunham delivers an enthralling collection of personal essays about being a writer, actress and navigating adulthood in the spotlight.
14. Scrappy Little Nobody by Anna Kendrick
Whether you love Kendrick most for her role in the “Pitch Perfect” or “Twilight” Series (or something darker like “A Simple Favor”), you know she’s a talented actress with a story to tell. You’ll be drawn into this read by her humor and stick around for her poignant observations on fame.
15. This Will Only Hurt a Little by Busy Phillips
Phillips is best known for her roles in cult classics like “Freaks and Geeks,” “White Chicks,” and “He’s Just Not That Into You.” Today, she’s also got a robust social media presence where she shares a candid look at her life. But if you can’t get enough of Phillips, pick up her celebrity memoir. In it, she details her life in Hollywood and reflections on friendship and personal growth.
16. Born Standing Up by Steve Martin
This thoughtful memoir by the beloved comic is a reflection on what it takes to truly make it in comedy. Martin shares his experiences starting out in the world of stand-up and his transition to acting in this engaging read. This one includes lots of fun behind-the-scenes looks at the entertainment industry.
17. The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish
Despite growing up making folks laugh, many comedians had difficult childhoods. Tiffany Haddish is no exception. In her vulnerable memoir, she shares how she blossomed into a successful comedian and actress and the lessons she learned in the journey to get there.
18. Troublemaker: Surviving Hollywood and Scientology by Leah Remini
There are few belief systems more shrouded in mystery and controversy than Scientology. Yet it’s drawn in more than one entertainment elite, Leah Remini included. After escaping Scientology’s clutches, Remini wrote a brave book on the experience—plus she talks about what it’s like to be a Hollywood star.
19. The Princess Diarist by Carrie Fisher
Attention all Star Wars fanatics! This is one of the absolute best celebrity memoirs that should be on your TBR list. This read is based on the real-life journals Fisher kept during her time filming Star Wars. And yes, if you were wondering, it contains all the details about her affair with co-star Harrison Ford.
20. My Squirrel Days by Ellie Kemper
Leave it to quirky Kemper to write a memoir that keeps you laughing and turning the pages. You’ll love this one for inside details on her time acting on “The Office” and her profound insights on being an actress in Hollywood.
21. Open by Andre Aggasi
Tennis lovers (and anyone else who loves learning about incredible athletes) will want to grab a copy of Aggasi’s memoir. This bracingly honest read takes readers through a journey of what it takes to become a champion tennis player. He’s candid about the highs and lows he’s faced along the way and will inspire you with his resilience.
22. My Life in France by Julia Child
Celebrity chef Julia Child had an unusual path to cooking stardom. Follow her as she immerses herself in French Culture, writes a cookbook and, ultimately, becomes a culinary icon. You may come for the stories, but you’ll stay for the mouthwatering descriptions of food. (Pass the butter, please.)
23. Unfinished by Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Jonas may be famously married to a Jonas Brother. But she’s an accomplished actress and activist in her own right. In these candid stories, she shares what it was like to grow up in India, rise to stardom in Hollywood, and the challenges she’s overcome along the way.
24. There is No F*cking Secret by Kelly Obsbourne
Much like Osbourne herself, this celebrity memoir is brutally honest—and as the title suggests—not for those with delicate sensibilities. Osbourne recounts her struggles with addiction, a celebrity upbringing, and the dark side of fame.
25. The Beauty of Living Twice by Sharon Stone
Stone may be a widely-known actress and philanthropist, but her life has also been massively shaped by a near-death experience. After suffering a brain hemorrhage, Stone had to start life over again with a long and challenging recovery. Her celebrity memoir details her triumphs and struggles along the way.
26. Life by Keith Richards
The legendary Rolling Stones guitarist gives you an intimate look into his life in this memoir. Learn about his journey through the music world, his friendship with Mick Jagger, and all of the crazy things he did in the name of being a rock and roll superstar. (We’ll just be here living vicariously!)
27. A Life in Parts by Bryan Cranston
Miss watching “Breaking Bad”? Grab this memoir by the show’s star and learn about his illustrious career. The book is divided into vignettes featuring special moments or roles in Cranston’s life. We especially loved learning about the odd jobs he took before becoming a fully-fledged actor.
28. Down the Rabbit Hole by Holly Madison
Ever wondered what it was like to live in the Playboy Mansion? In this revealing celebrity memoir, Playboy Model Holly Madison shares the inside scoop. Expect juicy details on the inside realities of living with Hugh Hefner, plus an inspiring story of Madison finding herself amidst the chaos.
29. I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
Yousafzai is this generation’s most iconic global advocate for education and girls' rights. In her memoir, she talks about her courageous acts standing up against the Taliban’s efforts to deny girls education. When you need a dose of inspiration (or a reminder to appreciate your education), pick up this book.
30. Just As I Am by Cicely Tyson
Tyson, best known for her trailblazing roles in “Roots” and “Sounder,” has written a memoir you don’t want to miss. She gets honest about the challenges she’s faced as a Black woman navigating Hollywood and shares behind-the-scenes moments from her iconic career.
31. The Long Hard Road Out of Hell by Marilyn Manson
Musician Marilyn Manson may have a controversial presence, but that’s exactly what makes the ones of the most gripping and best celebrity memoirs. In it, he gives us a behind-the-scenes look at his shocking career and shares about the personal struggles he’s overcome.
32. My Love Story by Tina Turner
From her tumultuous relationship with Ike Turner to her journey of self-discovery and empowerment, Turner candidly shares the highs and lows of her life, offering readers a powerful narrative of resilience, triumph, and finding true love and happiness.
33. Unbearable Lightness: A Story of Loss and Gain by Portia de Rossi
Rossi may be known for being a beautiful and talented artist, but behind the scenes, she struggled massively with an eating disorder, pressures from Hollywood, and a complicated self-image. In this candid celebrity memoir, she shares her story of recovery and resilience.
34. My Life Outside the Ring by Hulk Hogan
Just like the rest of us, the legendary professional wrestler has a rich and complex personal life outside his career. In his memoir, Hogan gives a behind-the-scenes look at how he balanced his public image with his private personality.
35. Talking As Fast As I Can by Lauren Graham
Fans of Gilmore Girls will want to pick up a copy of Graham’s memoir. In it, she shares intimate stories about her time on the show (and its revival), plus reflections on navigating Hollywood, personal relationships and more—all with her signature quick wit.
36. The Magnolia Story by Chip and Joanna Gaines
In this memoir, the stars of the hit HGTV show “Fixer Upper” share their inspiring journey to success. They’re candid about both the highs and the lows of building their lifestyle empire, and you can feel their love for one another and their fans throughout the text.
37. Let’s Just Say It Wasn't Pretty by Diane Keaton
The celebrated actress has become an icon of fashion and beauty after a certain age, but her path to getting here wasn’t always simple. In her refreshing celebrity memoir, she talks about aging in an industry that’s notoriously ageist and invites readers to contemplate their own relationships with the evolution of beauty.
38. Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen
Rock legend Bruce Springsteen is known not only for his iconic songs but for keeping things real. His celebrity memoir is no different. In it, he talks about growing up in a working-class family and shares the creative process behind some of his most famous tunes.
39. This Is Me: Loving the Person You Are Today by Chrissy Metz
If you loved watching “This is Us,” you’ll enjoy this memoir by Chrissy Metz. It’s a heartfelt deep-dive into struggles with body image and self-worth in Hollywood. By the end of this read, you’ll feel ready to embrace yourself exactly as you are right now.
40. Unfiltered: No Shame, No Regrets, Just Me by Lily Collins
From her relationships to body image issues, Collins' memoir offers a raw and relatable perspective on growing up in the spotlight and finding her own voice. This one is broken up into a series of intimate essays, making it easy to pick up and gather some inspiration whenever you have a few minutes.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of the types of topics you'd like to read about, this is a great list of memoir examples that will show you not everything (or everyone) is as it seems.
Even more, reading through some of the best celebrity memoirs here may just inspire you to write your own tell-all! If you feel one stirring within you but you're unsure how to start a memoir, reach out to schedule a book consultation with a talented member of our team. We'll talk through your book idea, share ways we can support your writing journey, and help you finally become a published author!
Related:
• 20 Memoir Writing Do’s and Don’ts
• 75+ Memoir Writing Prompts
