Actresses Who Are Published Authors
Many high-profile actresses have successfully expanded their creative careers beyond the screen by venturing into the literary world. These women have authored a wide range of works, including poignant memoirs, gripping psychological thrillers, and imaginative children’s stories. By transitioning from performance to prose, they offer deeper insights into their personal experiences or showcase their storytelling abilities in entirely new genres. This shift often allows them to control their own narratives and reach audiences through a different medium.
Carrie Fisher
Carrie Fisher published her semi-autobiographical novel Postcards from the Edge in 1987, which drew heavily on her personal experiences in Hollywood. The story follows an actress named Suzanne Vale as she navigates life and recovery after a drug overdose. Fisher later adapted the book into a successful screenplay for the 1990 film ‘Postcards from the Edge’. Throughout her career, she wrote several other books, including The Best Awful and the memoir The Princess Diarist. Her writing is frequently noted for its sharp wit and candid exploration of mental health and fame.
Jamie Lee Curtis
Jamie Lee Curtis began her career as a children’s author in 1993 with the publication of When I Was Little: A 4-Year-Old’s Memoir of Her Youth. She has since written over a dozen books for young readers, including the 1998 bestseller Today I Feel Silly & Other Moods That Make My Day. Her work often addresses emotional intelligence and self-acceptance, helping children understand and manage their feelings. Curtis collaborates with illustrator Laura Cornell to create vibrant and relatable stories that have remained popular for decades. She is recognized as one of the most consistent and successful celebrity authors in the children’s literature market.
Julianne Moore
Julianne Moore became a published author in 2007 with the release of her first children’s book, Freckleface Strawberry. The story was inspired by her own childhood experiences and the nicknames she received because of her appearance. The book follows a young girl who learns to embrace the very things that make her different from others. Moore expanded the project into a series of books and eventually saw the story adapted into an off-Broadway musical. She continues to write for younger audiences while maintaining a prolific acting career in major film productions.
Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon released her first book, Whiskey in a Teacup, in 2018, which combines personal essays with Southern lifestyle tips and recipes. The book explores her upbringing in Nashville and how it influenced her approach to life and work. In 2022, she ventured into children’s literature with Busy Betty, a story about a spirited and creative young girl. This debut picture book was inspired by Witherspoon’s own childhood adventures and the importance of persistence. She has since expanded the Busy Betty series with additional titles focusing on themes of teamwork and community.
Natalie Portman
Natalie Portman published Natalie Portman’s Fables in 2020, a collection of three classic stories retold with a modern sensibility. The book includes updated versions of The Tortoise and the Hare, The Three Little Pigs, and Country Mouse and City Mouse. Her goal was to create stories that felt more inclusive and reflective of the world today while preserving the original moral lessons. Each fable is accompanied by detailed illustrations and written in a rhythmic prose style suitable for reading aloud. Portman has expressed that her own journey as a parent motivated her to contribute to the world of children’s publishing.
Lauren Graham
Lauren Graham made her literary debut in 2013 with the novel Someday, Someday, Maybe, which details the struggles of an aspiring actress in New York City. The book became a New York Times bestseller and was praised for its authentic portrayal of the entertainment industry. In 2016, she published a collection of personal essays titled Talking as Fast as I Can: From Gilmore Girls to Gilmore Girls (and Everything in Between). This memoir reflects on her time filming the popular series ‘Gilmore Girls’ and its subsequent revival. Graham has also written In Conclusion, Don’t Worry About It, a short book based on a commencement speech she delivered.
Hilary Duff
Hilary Duff entered the world of young adult fiction in 2010 with her debut novel Elixir. The story follows a photojournalist named Clea Raymond who investigates the mysterious disappearance of her father. The book incorporates elements of romance and the supernatural, leading to two sequels titled Devoted and True. Duff collaborated with author Elise Allen to bring the series to life during a busy period in her music and acting career. In 2021, she published a children’s book titled My Little Brave Girl, inspired by her experiences as a mother.
Anna Kendrick
Anna Kendrick published a collection of autobiographical essays in 2016 titled Scrappy Little Nobody. The book chronicles her journey from a childhood in Maine to her breakout roles in films like ‘Up in the Air’ and ‘Pitch Perfect’. Her writing style matches the self-deprecating and humorous persona she frequently exhibits on social media. The essays cover a variety of topics, including the challenges of early career auditions and the surreal nature of Hollywood award shows. Kendrick narrates the audiobook version herself, adding a personal layer to the storytelling experience.
Molly Ringwald
Molly Ringwald released her first work of fiction, When It Happens to You: A Novel in Stories, in 2012. The book consists of interconnected tales that explore themes of betrayal, family dynamics, and the complexities of modern relationships. Prior to this, she published a memoir and style guide in 2010 titled Getting the Pretty Back: Friendship, Family, and Finding the Perfect Lipstick. Ringwald has often spoken about her lifelong passion for writing and her desire to establish an identity beyond her iconic 1980s film roles. Her prose is frequently described as sophisticated and emotionally resonant by literary critics.
Gabrielle Union
Gabrielle Union published her first memoir, We’re Going to Need More Wine, in 2017, which earned widespread acclaim for its honesty. The book addresses her experiences with race, sexuality, and the pressures of the entertainment industry. In 2021, she followed up with another collection of essays titled You Got Anything Stronger?, which delved into her journey with motherhood and surrogacy. Union has also co-authored several children’s books, including Shady Baby, which was inspired by her daughter Kaavia James. Her literary work is known for being vulnerable and providing a platform for difficult conversations about identity.
Isla Fisher
Isla Fisher began her writing career as a teenager, publishing two romantic novels for young adults titled Bewitched and Seduced by Fame in the mid-1990s. Years later, she returned to literature with the Marge in Charge series, which features a mischievous nanny with rainbow-colored hair. The series includes several titles such as Marge and the Pirate Baby and Marge and the Great Train Rescue. In 2022, Fisher released a picture book titled Mazy the Movie Star, focusing on a dog who learns that being herself is better than fame. She draws on her own experiences in Hollywood to create humorous and relatable situations for children.
Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi Goldberg launched the Sugar Plum Ballerinas book series in 2008, targeting middle-grade readers with stories about friendship and dance. The first book, Plum Fantastic, introduces a group of girls attending a prestigious ballet school and dealing with various social challenges. Goldberg has also written non-fiction works, including the 1997 book Book, which contains her observations on various aspects of life and society. In 2015, she released If Someone Says “You Complete Me,” RUN!, a book offering her unique perspective on relationships and marriage. Her writing often mirrors the direct and comedic tone she is known for in her acting and hosting roles.
Mindy Kaling
Mindy Kaling published her first memoir, Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns), in 2011. The book provides a humorous look at her upbringing, her time as a writer on ‘The Office’, and her observations on friendship and Hollywood. She followed this in 2015 with Why Not Me?, which explores her experiences as the creator and star of ‘The Mindy Project’. Kaling has also released a series of essays titled Nothing Like I Imagined (Except for Sometimes) through Amazon Original Stories. Her literary success has made her a prominent voice for a generation of readers interested in the intersections of comedy and career.
Tina Fey
Tina Fey released her memoir Bossypants in 2011, which became a massive commercial and critical success. The book chronicles her early days in improv comedy, her tenure at ‘Saturday Night Live’, and the creation of the sitcom ’30 Rock’. Fey uses a comedic approach to discuss the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry and the realities of motherhood. The book spent several weeks at the top of the New York Times Best Seller list and was nominated for a Grammy for its audiobook version. Her writing is widely credited with paving the way for other comedians to publish successful memoirs.
Amy Poehler
Amy Poehler published her first book, Yes Please, in 2014, offering a mix of memoir, advice, and comedic essays. The narrative covers her time with the Upright Citizens Brigade, her years on ‘Saturday Night Live’, and her starring role in ‘Parks and Recreation’. Poehler includes guest contributions from friends and family, providing a multifaceted view of her life and career. The book emphasizes the importance of hard work, improvisation, and supporting other women in the creative arts. Like her former co-star Tina Fey, Poehler’s transition to authorship was met with significant praise and high sales figures.
Krysten Ritter
Krysten Ritter released her debut novel, Bonfire, in 2017, establishing herself as a writer of psychological thrillers. The story centers on Abby Williams, an environmental lawyer who returns to her small hometown to investigate a corporate conspiracy. As the protagonist digs deeper into the case, she uncovers dark secrets about her past and the community she left behind. Ritter has mentioned that she spent years developing the plot and characters while working on various acting projects like ‘Jessica Jones’. The novel received positive reviews for its atmospheric setting and complex lead character.
Catherine Steadman
Catherine Steadman published her first thriller, Something in the Water, in 2018, which quickly became a global bestseller. The story follows a couple on their honeymoon who discover a bag of money and diamonds while scuba diving, leading to a series of dangerous choices. Steadman, known for her role in the television series ‘Downton Abbey’, has since written several other novels including Mr. Nobody and The Disappearing Act. Her work often focuses on high-stakes situations where ordinary people find themselves in extraordinary peril. She continues to balance her career as an actress with her prolific output as a novelist.
Celia Imrie
Celia Imrie began her career as a novelist in 2015 with the publication of Not Quite Nice. The book follows a group of retirees who move to the French Riviera, exploring themes of friendship, romance, and starting over later in life. This debut was a commercial success, leading to several sequels including Nice Work (If You Can Get It) and Sail Away. Imrie’s writing is often described as charming and humorous, drawing on her own experiences in the entertainment industry and her travels. She remains a prominent figure in British theatre and film while consistently releasing new fiction.
Sharon Stone
Sharon Stone published her memoir, The Beauty of Living Twice, in 2021, providing a candid account of her life and career. The book details her upbringing in Pennsylvania, her rise to fame in films like ‘Basic Instinct’, and her recovery from a near-fatal stroke in 2001. Stone uses the narrative to discuss the challenges she faced within the film industry and her humanitarian work later in life. The memoir received praise for its vulnerability and the actress’s refusal to shy away from difficult topics. It marks a significant moment in her public life, as she reclaimed her story in her own words.
Demi Moore
Demi Moore released her memoir Inside Out in 2019, which became a number one New York Times bestseller. The book offers a deeply personal look at her childhood, her high-profile marriages, and her struggles with substance abuse and body image. Moore discusses her professional highs during the 1990s in films such as ‘Ghost’ and ‘G.I. Jane’ while contrasting them with her private turmoil. The narrative is noted for its brutal honesty and its exploration of the complicated relationship between mother and daughter. Moore’s debut as an author was widely discussed for its willingness to address both her vulnerabilities and her resilience.
Viola Davis
Viola Davis published her memoir, Finding Me, in 2022, which earned her a Grammy Award for the audiobook version. The book traces her journey from a childhood marked by poverty and trauma in Rhode Island to becoming an Academy Award-winning actress. Davis provides a detailed account of the obstacles she overcame to find her voice and her place in the world of acting. The narrative emphasizes the power of self-love and the importance of confronting one’s past to move forward. Her writing has been described as powerful and inspirational, offering a look at the grit required to succeed in Hollywood.
Taraji P. Henson
Taraji P. Henson released her memoir, Around the Way Girl, in 2016, where she shares the stories that shaped her life. She details her experiences growing up in Washington D.C., her time at Howard University, and the challenges of being a single mother while pursuing an acting career. The book also provides behind-the-scenes insights into her roles in films like ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ and the television series ‘Empire’. Henson uses her platform to advocate for mental health awareness and to encourage others to persevere through adversity. Her prose reflects the same energy and authenticity she brings to her performances on screen.
Shirley MacLaine
Shirley MacLaine is a prolific author who has published over a dozen books throughout her long career in Hollywood. Her first memoir, Don’t Fall Off the Mountain, was released in 1970 and covered her early life and travels. MacLaine is particularly known for her later works, such as Out on a Limb (1983), which explored her interests in spirituality and reincarnation. These books often combined personal anecdotes with her philosophical beliefs, sparking significant public interest and discussion. She continues to be a unique voice in the literary world, blending celebrity memoir with New Age exploration.
Jane Fonda
Jane Fonda released her comprehensive memoir, My Life So Far, in 2005, which divided her life into three distinct acts. The book covers her childhood, her legendary acting career, her political activism, and her personal relationships. It spent several weeks on the New York Times Best Seller list and was praised for its introspective and honest tone. In 2011, she published Prime Time, a book that offers advice on aging gracefully and making the most of the later years of life. Fonda’s writing often focuses on personal growth, health, and the importance of remaining socially engaged.
Diane Keaton
Diane Keaton published her first memoir, Then Again, in 2011, which serves as both an autobiography and a tribute to her mother, Dorothy Hall. The book uses her mother’s extensive journals to create a dialogue between their two lives and experiences. Keaton followed this with Let’s Just Say It Wasn’t Pretty in 2014, which focuses on her thoughts on beauty, aging, and being a woman in Hollywood. In 2017, she released The House That Pinterest Built, showcasing her passion for interior design and architecture. Her writing style is often described as quirky and conversational, reflecting her well-known screen persona.
Sally Field
Sally Field published her memoir, In Pieces, in 2018, after working on the manuscript for seven years. The book provides a vulnerable account of her life, including her complicated relationship with her mother and the challenges she faced as a young actress. Field discusses her roles in ‘Gidget’ and ‘The Flying Nun’ as well as her transition into more serious, award-winning film work. The narrative is noted for its lack of ghostwriting and its focus on the internal emotional life of the actress. It received critical acclaim for its literary quality and deep introspection into the nature of performance.
Busy Philipps
Busy Philipps released her collection of personal essays, This Will Only Hurt a Little, in 2018. The book chronicles her experiences as a young actress on shows like ‘Freaks and Geeks’ and ‘Dawson’s Creek’. She writes candidly about the difficulties of navigating the entertainment industry, her friendships with other actresses, and her experiences with motherhood. Philipps uses the same unfiltered and relatable voice that has made her popular on social media platforms. The memoir was a New York Times bestseller and was praised for its honesty regarding the realities of life as a working actress.
Robinne Lee
Robinne Lee published her debut novel, The Idea of You, in 2017, which gained a massive following through word of mouth and social media. The story follows a 40-year-old mother who begins a surprising romance with the lead singer of the world’s most famous boy band. While often categorized as a romance, Lee has stated the book is intended to explore the invisibility of women as they age. The novel was adapted into a major feature film ‘The Idea of You’ in 2024. Lee continues to work as both an actress and an author, developing new literary projects.
Keke Palmer
Keke Palmer released her first book, I Don’t Belong to You: Quiet the Noise and Find Your Voice, in 2017. The work serves as a guide for young people, combining personal anecdotes from her career with motivational advice on self-confidence and identity. In 2022, she expanded her literary portfolio by releasing a series of short stories titled the Southern Belle Insult series. These stories showcase her comedic range and her ability to create distinct, memorable characters. Palmer uses her writing to empower her audience and share the lessons she has learned since her childhood debut in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’.
Kristen Bell
Kristen Bell became a children’s author in 2020 with the publication of The World Needs More Purple People. Co-written with Benjamin Hart, the book encourages children to look for common ground with others while celebrating their own individuality. The story follows a character named Penny as she explains what it means to be a “purple person,” which includes asking questions and being kind. Despite some social media debate regarding its message, the book was a commercial success and led to a sequel titled The World Needs More Purple Schools. Bell’s work in publishing aligns with her public advocacy for empathy and positive communication.
Bella Thorne
Bella Thorne published the first book in her Autumn Falls young adult series in 2014. The novel follows a teenage girl who discovers a magical journal that makes anything she writes in it come true. Thorne drew inspiration from her own life and struggles with dyslexia to create a relatable protagonist for younger readers. She followed this with sequels titled Autumn’s Kiss and Autumn’s Wish. In 2019, she released a more personal and experimental book titled Life of a Wannabe Mogul: Mental Disarray, which contains a collection of her poetry and thoughts.
Leah Remini
Leah Remini published her memoir, Troublemaker: Surviving Hollywood and Scientology, in 2015. The book became a significant cultural talking point, as it detailed her experiences within and eventual departure from the Church of Scientology. Remini discusses how her involvement with the organization affected her personal life and her career in television comedies like ‘The King of Queens’. The memoir was a massive bestseller and served as the foundation for her award-winning documentary series. Her writing is characterized by the same direct and confrontational style that she exhibits in her public advocacy work.
Ellie Kemper
Ellie Kemper released a collection of personal essays in 2018 titled My Squirrel Days. The book offers a humorous look at her upbringing in St. Louis and her journey to starring roles in ‘The Office’ and ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’. Kemper writes about a wide range of topics, from her time as a competitive field hockey player to the surreal experiences of professional auditions. Her prose is often described as upbeat and whimsy, matching the optimistic characters she frequently portrays on screen. The book was well-received by fans and critics for its lighthearted but insightful perspective on a life in comedy.
Issa Rae
Issa Rae published a collection of essays in 2015 titled The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl. The book was inspired by her popular web series of the same name and explores her experiences navigating social situations as an introverted person of color. She discusses everything from workplace dynamics to the complexities of modern dating with a signature wit. The success of the book helped solidify her position as a rising creative force before the premiere of her HBO series ‘Insecure’. Rae’s writing is often praised for its relatability and its sharp observations on contemporary culture.
Nicole Richie
Nicole Richie published her debut novel, The Truth About Diamonds, in 2005, which featured a protagonist loosely based on her own life as a socialite. The story follows the adopted daughter of a famous musician as she navigates the pitfalls of fame and friendship in Hollywood. She followed this with a second novel, Priceless, in 2010, which explores the life of a wealthy young woman who loses her fortune and must start over. Richie’s foray into fiction allowed her to satirize the celebrity culture she was a part of during the early 2000s. Her books were noted for their fast-paced plots and insider perspectives on the entertainment industry.
Pamela Anderson
Pamela Anderson published her first novel, Star, in 2004, which follows the adventures of a small-town girl who becomes a global sensation. The book was a semi-autobiographical take on her own rise to fame and was followed by a sequel titled Star Struck in 2005. Years later, in 2023, she released her memoir Love, Pamela, which provided a more serious and poetic account of her life. The memoir accompanied a Netflix documentary and was praised for its distinct narrative voice and reflection on her public image. Anderson’s literary work has evolved from lighthearted fiction to deeply personal non-fiction.
Drew Barrymore
Drew Barrymore published her first memoir, Little Girl Lost, in 1990 when she was only 14 years old. The book detailed her early rise to stardom in ‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial’ and her subsequent struggles with substance abuse at a very young age. In 2015, she released Wildflower, a collection of essays that provided a more mature and positive look at the various stages of her life and career. Barrymore has also co-authored several books on photography and lifestyle, including Rebel Homemaker in 2021. Her writing often emphasizes resilience, the importance of family, and finding joy in everyday experiences.
Jessica Simpson
Jessica Simpson released her memoir, Open Book, in 2020, which became a significant commercial success. The book provides an unfiltered look at her career as a singer and actress, her high-profile relationships, and her struggles with body image and addiction. Simpson discusses her time starring in ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ and the pressures of being a reality television pioneer. The memoir was praised for its honesty and for revealing the person behind the tabloid headlines. It successfully re-established her as a business mogul and a relatable voice for many of her longtime fans.
Gwyneth Paltrow
Gwyneth Paltrow has published several books focused on health, wellness, and cooking, beginning with Notes from My Kitchen Table in 2011. She followed this with other successful titles such as It’s All Good (2013) and It’s All Easy (2016), which reached the top of the New York Times Best Seller lists. Her books often reflect the lifestyle philosophy promoted through her brand, Goop, focusing on clean eating and mindfulness. While primarily known for her Oscar-winning acting career, Paltrow’s literary output has made her a prominent figure in the lifestyle industry. Her writing style is instructional and personal, often including anecdotes about her family life.
Lena Dunham
Lena Dunham published her memoir Not That Kind of Girl: A Young Woman Tells You What She’s “Learned” in 2014. The book is a collection of personal essays covering topics such as work, friendship, sex, and health. It was released during the height of her success as the creator and star of the HBO series ‘Girls’. The memoir was both a bestseller and a subject of significant media discussion due to its candid and often provocative content. Dunham’s writing is known for its detailed observation and its exploration of the anxieties facing young women in the modern era.
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