Shirley, I Jest!
A Storied Life
By (author) Cindy Williams With Dave Smitherman Foreword by Ed Begley Jr.
Publication date:
01 July 2015Length of book:
200 pagesPublisher
Taylor Trade PublishingISBN-13: 9781630760120
Cindy Williams, half of the comedic duo of Laverne & Shirley, has had a wild and lively career in show business. This book is an engaging and heartfelt journey from Williams’s blue collar roots to unexpected stardom—from being pranked by Jim Morrison while waiting tables at Whisky a Go Go to starring in one of the most iconic shows on television. With wit and candor, Cindy tells stories of her struggles as a child growing up with meager means and dreaming of becoming an actress. She also shares many misadventures and amusing anecdotes about some of the most famous actors in Hollywood. Never taking herself too seriously, Cindy finds humor and irony in the challenging world of show business.
Versatile actress and comedienne Williams had a challenging childhood: strained finances, a hard-working mother, and a father who struggled with alcohol. Her love of acting began early, and while studying and pursuing her career she waitressed at Hollywood’s Whisky a Go Go and worked in a bank—each job provides humorous vignettes. Her recollections of auditions and eccentric episodes with film roles and guest TV appearances are equally entertaining. The iconic television series Laverne & Shirley, in which Williams starred with Penny Marshall, is a highlight, with stories ranging from the antics of the superb ensemble cast to the physical comedy to the rise of Boo Boo Kitty. Although Williams was famous and worked with such top names as director George Lucas and actors Ron Howard and Harrison Ford, she emerges here as a trusted friend sharing a funny tale or an embarrassing moment. Those seeking a behind-the-scenes tell-all will not find it. Instead, readers will enjoy an honest memoir penned with comic flair. Fans of Williams will certainly enjoy this book. Numerous photographs and an engaging foreword by Ed Begley Jr., enhance the text. For large circulating libraries and entertainment collections.