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My Trip Down the Pink Carpet
The Emmy Award-winning actor, playwright, and gay icon shares his personal story from his childhood as a member of a conservative Tennessee family and his early commercial stints to his one-man testimonials off Broadway to his struggles with substance abuse and sex addiction.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published June 3, 2008
143 people are currently reading
1694 people want to read
About the author
Leslie Jordan
7 books188 followersIn 1982, Leslie Jordan stepped off a Greyhound bus from the hills of Tennessee, said “hello” to Hollywood and has never looked back. With hundreds of television shows, films and commercials to his credit, he has become a familiar face on the entertainment scene.
Leslie is the 2006 Emmy Award Winner for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his delicious portrayal of “Beverley Leslie” on “Will and Grace.” Television audiences will also remember him for his recurring roles on “Privileged,” “Ugly Betty,” “Boston Legal,” and “Reba.”
Feature film audiences will recognize Leslie from his performance as “Brother Boy” in Del Shores’ adaptation of his play “Sordid Lives’” with Olivia Newton-John, Delta Burke and Beau Bridges. He is reprising the role in the television series based on the play and film for the cable network Logo. Other upcoming feature film appearances include “Love Ranch” in a wonderful scene with Helen Mirren directed by Taylor Hackford.
On stage, Mr. Jordan won the Ovation Award, The Garland Award and The Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for his portrayal of “Preston Leroy,” the aging, sodden barfly in Del Shores hit play “Southern Baptist Sissies.”
Mr. Jordan has enjoyed considerable success as a writer. His book My Trip Down the Pink Carpet for Simon and Schuster is currently in bookstores. Material from the book formed the basis of a 90-minute one-man show, which had a successful 45 city book-signing/performance tour in 2008. A dvd of the show shot during performances in Atlanta will be released.
Leslie is the 2006 Emmy Award Winner for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his delicious portrayal of “Beverley Leslie” on “Will and Grace.” Television audiences will also remember him for his recurring roles on “Privileged,” “Ugly Betty,” “Boston Legal,” and “Reba.”
Feature film audiences will recognize Leslie from his performance as “Brother Boy” in Del Shores’ adaptation of his play “Sordid Lives’” with Olivia Newton-John, Delta Burke and Beau Bridges. He is reprising the role in the television series based on the play and film for the cable network Logo. Other upcoming feature film appearances include “Love Ranch” in a wonderful scene with Helen Mirren directed by Taylor Hackford.
On stage, Mr. Jordan won the Ovation Award, The Garland Award and The Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for his portrayal of “Preston Leroy,” the aging, sodden barfly in Del Shores hit play “Southern Baptist Sissies.”
Mr. Jordan has enjoyed considerable success as a writer. His book My Trip Down the Pink Carpet for Simon and Schuster is currently in bookstores. Material from the book formed the basis of a 90-minute one-man show, which had a successful 45 city book-signing/performance tour in 2008. A dvd of the show shot during performances in Atlanta will be released.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
January 27, 2021
The pandemic may have been a shitshow as a whole, but the one thing quarantine forever gave us was . . . . .
When everybody’s favorite Guncle posted the release date for his upcoming book I immediately went to NetGalley hoping for a chance to score an early copy. The new one wasn’t there, but a reference to this little diddy from back in the archives was and I immediately went to the library website to see if it was available. And it was – because the gods smile upon me.
I think what made everyone love Leslie is that he’s pure joy. He’s authentic and hilarious and foulmouthed and its all wrapped up in a tiny little elfin package that you just want to put in your pocket. This book was everything I was hoping it would be.
Stories include spending time in the slammer with Robert Downey Jr., getting the shit beat out of him by an octogenarian Betty White, “petergazing,” and soliciting a perverted dirty caller to take it to the next level with promises of no panties and a full fiery bush. Oh and I can’t forget the ones where he asks his daddy to “watch him twirl.” Leslie also doesn’t shy away from addressing the absolute awfulness which was the response by pretty much America as a whole to the AIDS crisis, but have no fear – if he makes you squirt a couple of tears you’ll be belly laughing again by the next chapter.
I will be the first in line for his next book for sure, but I’m so glad I found this one – even if I was several years late to the party.
All the Stars. Leslie Jordan, you are truly love and light.
When everybody’s favorite Guncle posted the release date for his upcoming book I immediately went to NetGalley hoping for a chance to score an early copy. The new one wasn’t there, but a reference to this little diddy from back in the archives was and I immediately went to the library website to see if it was available. And it was – because the gods smile upon me.
I think what made everyone love Leslie is that he’s pure joy. He’s authentic and hilarious and foulmouthed and its all wrapped up in a tiny little elfin package that you just want to put in your pocket. This book was everything I was hoping it would be.
Stories include spending time in the slammer with Robert Downey Jr., getting the shit beat out of him by an octogenarian Betty White, “petergazing,” and soliciting a perverted dirty caller to take it to the next level with promises of no panties and a full fiery bush. Oh and I can’t forget the ones where he asks his daddy to “watch him twirl.” Leslie also doesn’t shy away from addressing the absolute awfulness which was the response by pretty much America as a whole to the AIDS crisis, but have no fear – if he makes you squirt a couple of tears you’ll be belly laughing again by the next chapter.
I will be the first in line for his next book for sure, but I’m so glad I found this one – even if I was several years late to the party.
All the Stars. Leslie Jordan, you are truly love and light.
August 11, 2020
Beats there heart so dead to love and laughter that it hasn't rejoiced to the sight of Will & Grace's Beverley Leslie and Karen Walker having a bitch-fight? I know mine does even yet. Leslie Jordan is my hero for that role, and for the fearless and wonderful job he does as Brother Boy, the Tammy Wynette-tribute drag queen in Sordid Lives: The Series, whose tragic seemingly permanent hiatus causes me great spiritual pain.
He is also my hero anew for this line: "I write to keep the conduit open so the light can shine through me." Now, keep in mind: This is a 4'11" fey-as-hell Southern Babdiss of a Certain Age, renowned for hilariously being gay as a May morning, mildly famous for writing HILARIOUS one-Leslie shows and delivering them with verve and gusto, talking about being a conduit for universal love.
This is the moment for you to reel back in startled, impressed respect. Men like Leslie Jordan used to kill themselves before they would have a chance to get famous and write a book. And very tragically, the boys these men once were are still killing themselves thanks to the hate-filled "teachings" of the predominant religious strain in their world.
Yet here he is, folks, all of him such as it is, a morsel of protoplasm that's jumping up and down and hollering loud as he can: "It's all about love, it's only about love, can't we agree to see, it's all LOVE!"
Yes sir, Mr. Jordan, you are correct. That is all that it is about, whatever "it" is the subject of conversation. Thank you for saying it, clearly and forcefully, with examples of what hate and fear have done to you personally before this blindingly simple truth smacked into you.
So why should you read this book? For that message? Hell no! Read it because *this* little queen has ogled the packages of Luke Perry, Dean Cain, Billy Bob Thornton, on and on! In Person!! And he tells of his adventures in Hollywood, surprisingly, without cattiness or prurience. His sense of comedic timing is flawless, flawless, flawless, and he knows when to leave an anecdote instead of letting it drag on into anecdotage.
Why, then, have I given it a chary 3.9 stars? Because it's not perfect, as what can be; but its narrative flaw is that it's scattershot. It's not quite focused enough to be a real autobiography, and it's not as gauzily self-exculpatory or brutally self-excoriative as a memoir needs to be in this marketplace.
It's a reflective essay, a pulling-together of his life's strings and strands, with little obvious attempt to match the colors up. Flawed or no, it's colorful and fun and, if you care to see it, quite uplifting.
It's a Victoria's Secret bra of a book.
He is also my hero anew for this line: "I write to keep the conduit open so the light can shine through me." Now, keep in mind: This is a 4'11" fey-as-hell Southern Babdiss of a Certain Age, renowned for hilariously being gay as a May morning, mildly famous for writing HILARIOUS one-Leslie shows and delivering them with verve and gusto, talking about being a conduit for universal love.
This is the moment for you to reel back in startled, impressed respect. Men like Leslie Jordan used to kill themselves before they would have a chance to get famous and write a book. And very tragically, the boys these men once were are still killing themselves thanks to the hate-filled "teachings" of the predominant religious strain in their world.
Yet here he is, folks, all of him such as it is, a morsel of protoplasm that's jumping up and down and hollering loud as he can: "It's all about love, it's only about love, can't we agree to see, it's all LOVE!"
Yes sir, Mr. Jordan, you are correct. That is all that it is about, whatever "it" is the subject of conversation. Thank you for saying it, clearly and forcefully, with examples of what hate and fear have done to you personally before this blindingly simple truth smacked into you.
So why should you read this book? For that message? Hell no! Read it because *this* little queen has ogled the packages of Luke Perry, Dean Cain, Billy Bob Thornton, on and on! In Person!! And he tells of his adventures in Hollywood, surprisingly, without cattiness or prurience. His sense of comedic timing is flawless, flawless, flawless, and he knows when to leave an anecdote instead of letting it drag on into anecdotage.
Why, then, have I given it a chary 3.9 stars? Because it's not perfect, as what can be; but its narrative flaw is that it's scattershot. It's not quite focused enough to be a real autobiography, and it's not as gauzily self-exculpatory or brutally self-excoriative as a memoir needs to be in this marketplace.
It's a reflective essay, a pulling-together of his life's strings and strands, with little obvious attempt to match the colors up. Flawed or no, it's colorful and fun and, if you care to see it, quite uplifting.
It's a Victoria's Secret bra of a book.
December 10, 2016
I adored this book and devoured it in an afternoon. His raw truth, combined with great storytelling, kept me glued to every word - and there are some really impactful statements in these chapters. While this gay, Southern boy hasn't lived as glamorous a life as Mr. Jordan, I could still relate to so many of his musings and struggles. And while we've made very different choices in our lives and grew up in different eras, we share a common experience of growing up gay in the South with religion dominating our upbringing and our perception of who we are and how our self-worth was impacted. If I could give this book six stars, I would. I think the tears in my eyes at the end make up for that missing star.
May 3, 2021
Leslie Jordan is a national treasure and I dare anyone to say otherwise!
July 26, 2008
Even if you don't recognize Leslie Jordan's name, you've probably seen him as Karen's diminutive nemesis, Beverly Leslie, on Will and Grace or any one of hundreds of unforgettable characters he's created. I saw him in a production of Southern Baptist Sissies in Los Angeles several years ago and thoroughly enjoyed seeing him "up close and personal" (literally, since I bumped into him in the lobby after the show!)
Jordan's collection of stories entertains and yet fills me with a great sadness for him and for the thousands and thousands of gay children growing up in fundamentalist Christian homes. He is quite candid about his years of alcoholism and drug-addiction (he's sober now and working his recovery beautifully) and I was left with wondering how many gay people are driven to substance abuse by the attitude of parents and religions.
This is a quick, fun read that is filled with wonderful lessons about learning to accept yourself, and our responsibility to be kind to others. "I found that happiness is a habit. Happiness is a choice. And happiness is something you have to really work hard at. I found that love is not a noun. Love is a verb. And it is in the action of offering loving service to others that we receive our self-love. I have found that the greatest healing is laughter, and I have been blessed to have the gift, as my daddy told me, of being able to make people laugh. I treasure that gift."
Jordan's collection of stories entertains and yet fills me with a great sadness for him and for the thousands and thousands of gay children growing up in fundamentalist Christian homes. He is quite candid about his years of alcoholism and drug-addiction (he's sober now and working his recovery beautifully) and I was left with wondering how many gay people are driven to substance abuse by the attitude of parents and religions.
This is a quick, fun read that is filled with wonderful lessons about learning to accept yourself, and our responsibility to be kind to others. "I found that happiness is a habit. Happiness is a choice. And happiness is something you have to really work hard at. I found that love is not a noun. Love is a verb. And it is in the action of offering loving service to others that we receive our self-love. I have found that the greatest healing is laughter, and I have been blessed to have the gift, as my daddy told me, of being able to make people laugh. I treasure that gift."
January 17, 2022
This was so enjoyable. He is a fantastic story teller. The Matt lauer story did not age well but don’t let that dissuade you from Mr. Jordan’s fantastic story telling.
November 30, 2022
If you are a fan of Leslie's, you will really enjoy this.
His is a light that will never go out!
His is a light that will never go out!
January 29, 2023
I adore him. Plain and simple.
February 2, 2019
Obviously, this is not a great piece of literature, however, it is a very fun (and funny...many LOL moments) read.
April 22, 2021
Leslie Jordan. Need I say more?? :)
September 4, 2020
A hilarious look at the life of someone I saw on Instagram and feel in love with. This book only made me fall in love with him more. Thank goodness for books like this
July 9, 2022
Quick, easy, and light-hearted read. I found myself smiling as I read through the book. Jordan's charm comes across every page
August 4, 2020
Campy Southern Gothic Hilarity.
I'm not a fan of comedians, preferring to get my laughs listening to political speeches. But as Ed Wynn said, there's a difference between saying funny things and saying things funny. Leslie Jordan can make me laugh by strolling on stage, putting his hand on his hip, and looking into the camera with his impish "This is a big ole mess. Watch me make it worse!" expression. He's the quintessential underdog and his genius is making fun of himself, while never asking for the audience's pity. He's tiny, but tough.
In the South, growing up male is a brutal business and the bullies rule. To be undersized and nonathletic is dangerous. To be undersized, nonathletic, and gay is a deadly trifecta. Frankly, his very survival is a miracle. His parents were devout Southern Baptists and their son grew up terrified of being damned to eternal hell for feelings that he had no control over. Sixty years ago, the Baptists hadn't coined the "Hate the Sin; Love the Sinner" mantra. Gays were perverts to be despised and shunned.
The author's relationship with his parents was complicated. He speaks of his mother as a sweet woman who has never understood him. He portrays his father as a gentle man who seemed puzzled by his odd son. The father died young and the author believes that losing his father at the age of eleven was the greatest tragedy of his life, but I wonder. Would his father ever have accepted a gay son? Is it worse to lose a beloved parent to death or to be permanently rejected by that parent?
The stories in this book are funny and tragic and sometimes horrifying. He's the poster boy for self-destructive behavior, with drug and alcohol addictions and toxic relationships being only part of the equation. Some people need to live on the edge and he's one of them. He's come to terms with his need for spiritual reassurance, but there's no "and now I'm living happily and quietly with my loving partner of two decades" ending. Like a lot of straight men, he goes for looks, not stability, sobriety, or even sanity. So if you can't stand a few shocks, better pass on this book.
I loved it for a variety of reasons, including his shrewd insider's look into show business. I love a good book about the entertainment industry, which was a crazy way of making a living when Shakespeare was around and still is. Jordan has been involved in sit-coms, movies, and plays and tells great stories about all of them. Like most people, I don't associate LA with the theater, so I was surprised by his stories about putting on and acting in the plays he's written. Apparently, the star-struck (and why else would you live in LA?) like to watch live plays, as well as TV and movies. Who knew?
The man comes through as a likable, flawed human being who's screwed up lots of times in his life, but always managed to right the canoe and keep paddling. He's a survivor in a tough industry and I admire that. In old age, he's found peace and he deserves it. If you like honest, no-hold-barred memoir, you'll enjoy this one.
I'm not a fan of comedians, preferring to get my laughs listening to political speeches. But as Ed Wynn said, there's a difference between saying funny things and saying things funny. Leslie Jordan can make me laugh by strolling on stage, putting his hand on his hip, and looking into the camera with his impish "This is a big ole mess. Watch me make it worse!" expression. He's the quintessential underdog and his genius is making fun of himself, while never asking for the audience's pity. He's tiny, but tough.
In the South, growing up male is a brutal business and the bullies rule. To be undersized and nonathletic is dangerous. To be undersized, nonathletic, and gay is a deadly trifecta. Frankly, his very survival is a miracle. His parents were devout Southern Baptists and their son grew up terrified of being damned to eternal hell for feelings that he had no control over. Sixty years ago, the Baptists hadn't coined the "Hate the Sin; Love the Sinner" mantra. Gays were perverts to be despised and shunned.
The author's relationship with his parents was complicated. He speaks of his mother as a sweet woman who has never understood him. He portrays his father as a gentle man who seemed puzzled by his odd son. The father died young and the author believes that losing his father at the age of eleven was the greatest tragedy of his life, but I wonder. Would his father ever have accepted a gay son? Is it worse to lose a beloved parent to death or to be permanently rejected by that parent?
The stories in this book are funny and tragic and sometimes horrifying. He's the poster boy for self-destructive behavior, with drug and alcohol addictions and toxic relationships being only part of the equation. Some people need to live on the edge and he's one of them. He's come to terms with his need for spiritual reassurance, but there's no "and now I'm living happily and quietly with my loving partner of two decades" ending. Like a lot of straight men, he goes for looks, not stability, sobriety, or even sanity. So if you can't stand a few shocks, better pass on this book.
I loved it for a variety of reasons, including his shrewd insider's look into show business. I love a good book about the entertainment industry, which was a crazy way of making a living when Shakespeare was around and still is. Jordan has been involved in sit-coms, movies, and plays and tells great stories about all of them. Like most people, I don't associate LA with the theater, so I was surprised by his stories about putting on and acting in the plays he's written. Apparently, the star-struck (and why else would you live in LA?) like to watch live plays, as well as TV and movies. Who knew?
The man comes through as a likable, flawed human being who's screwed up lots of times in his life, but always managed to right the canoe and keep paddling. He's a survivor in a tough industry and I admire that. In old age, he's found peace and he deserves it. If you like honest, no-hold-barred memoir, you'll enjoy this one.
April 11, 2012
I first fell in love with Leslie Jordan when I came across the show Sordid LIves about a white trash family in Texas. It is hilarious to the point that I was laughing until I was crying. It also deals with homosexuality and how to come out of the closet. Leslie Jordan plays a cross dresser that his mother put in an institution because he kept getting beat up. The institution believes they can "dehomosexualize" him. I do not believe in this at all. I do not believe homosexuality is a choice; I believe they are born that way. Period. I have many friends who are gay and I am all for homosexual marriage. This book is very funny however it sends a good message to those who are struggling with their identity of whether they are or are not a homosexual. Jordan was raised in the Bible Belt back in the 60's when it was very hard to come out of the closet. He struggled with this for many years; mostly by using drugs and alcohol to deal with his homosexuality. He struggled but he made it! He has became a wonderful actor and advocate for the homosexual community. He is involved in the Trevor Project that helps questioning teens try and deal with their sexual identity. This book follows Jordan's life as he goes from being embarrassed by who he is to him being comfortable in his own skin. He talks about all of the stars that he has met along the way that he had the privilege to work with. From Billy Bob Thorton to John Ritter and Robert Downey Jr. I loved this book! It made me laugh, cry, and proud that he could end up being such an inspiration for people who struggle on a daily basis in this world because of their sexual orientation. I love this man! I think he is an inspiration for all people, not just homosexuals. Anyone that struggles with who they are, straight or gay, should read this wonderfully inspiring book! Not to mention is he just so darn adorable! At 4'10" he is the cutest thing I have ever seen and so full of life. I could just eat him up lol!
May 23, 2021
I love Leslie Jordan, and as I read this, I totally read this in his voice. I would have rated it higher if not for the ableist language used. The book was published in 2008, which, in my mind, isn't that long ago, but in some ways, it really is. Living in the South myself, I know he meant nothing behind some of the things that are written, and had this book been published today, I'm sure some things would be said differently. But I still noticed it, and it bothered me.
January 1, 2025
Leslie Jordan's "My Trip Down the Pink Carpet" is a delightful, heartwarming, and uproariously funny memoir that captures the essence of this beloved icon. As a huge fan of the late Leslie Jordan, I found myself alternating between fits of laughter and moments of poignant reflection while reading this book.
Jordan's storytelling prowess shines through every page as he recounts his journey from a small-town Southern boy to a Hollywood star with his trademark wit and charm. His anecdotes are both hilarious and touching, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the life of a man who became an inspiration to so many in the LGBTQIA+ community, myself included.
What sets this book apart is Jordan's unwavering authenticity. He doesn't shy away from discussing his struggles with addiction, self-acceptance, and the challenges of being gay in a conservative environment. Instead, he approaches these topics with honesty, humor, and a refreshing lack of self-pity.
His resilience and ability to find joy even in difficult circumstances are genuinely inspiring.
The book is filled with colorful stories from Jordan's life and career, including his encounters with celebrities, his experiences on set, and his personal growth. His vivid descriptions and impeccable comedic timing make you feel as if you're right there with him, experiencing every moment.
As I read "My Trip Down the Pink Carpet," I'm reminded of the immense impact Leslie Jordan had on the entertainment industry and the LGBTQIA+ community. His fearless embrace of his identity and his ability to bring laughter and light to others are qualities that made him truly special.
While the book never fails to lift my spirits, there's now an undeniable bittersweet quality to the experience. Knowing that we've lost this incredible voice makes me cherish his words even more. Jordan's passing has left a void in the hearts of many, but this book serves as a beautiful testament to his life and legacy.
For anyone who loved Leslie Jordan or for those who simply appreciate a well-told, funny, and heartfelt memoir, "My Trip Down the Pink Carpet" is an absolute must-read. It's a celebration of life, love, and the power of being true to oneself. Jordan's warmth, humor, and authenticity shine through every page, making this book a true joy to read.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend "My Trip Down the Pink Carpet" to everyone. It's not just a memoir; it's a master class in resilience, humor, and self-acceptance. Leslie Jordan's voice lives on in these pages, continuing to inspire, entertain, and remind us of the importance of embracing our true selves. This book is a fitting tribute to a man who touched so many lives and will continue to do so through his enduring legacy.
Jordan's storytelling prowess shines through every page as he recounts his journey from a small-town Southern boy to a Hollywood star with his trademark wit and charm. His anecdotes are both hilarious and touching, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the life of a man who became an inspiration to so many in the LGBTQIA+ community, myself included.
What sets this book apart is Jordan's unwavering authenticity. He doesn't shy away from discussing his struggles with addiction, self-acceptance, and the challenges of being gay in a conservative environment. Instead, he approaches these topics with honesty, humor, and a refreshing lack of self-pity.
His resilience and ability to find joy even in difficult circumstances are genuinely inspiring.
The book is filled with colorful stories from Jordan's life and career, including his encounters with celebrities, his experiences on set, and his personal growth. His vivid descriptions and impeccable comedic timing make you feel as if you're right there with him, experiencing every moment.
As I read "My Trip Down the Pink Carpet," I'm reminded of the immense impact Leslie Jordan had on the entertainment industry and the LGBTQIA+ community. His fearless embrace of his identity and his ability to bring laughter and light to others are qualities that made him truly special.
While the book never fails to lift my spirits, there's now an undeniable bittersweet quality to the experience. Knowing that we've lost this incredible voice makes me cherish his words even more. Jordan's passing has left a void in the hearts of many, but this book serves as a beautiful testament to his life and legacy.
For anyone who loved Leslie Jordan or for those who simply appreciate a well-told, funny, and heartfelt memoir, "My Trip Down the Pink Carpet" is an absolute must-read. It's a celebration of life, love, and the power of being true to oneself. Jordan's warmth, humor, and authenticity shine through every page, making this book a true joy to read.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend "My Trip Down the Pink Carpet" to everyone. It's not just a memoir; it's a master class in resilience, humor, and self-acceptance. Leslie Jordan's voice lives on in these pages, continuing to inspire, entertain, and remind us of the importance of embracing our true selves. This book is a fitting tribute to a man who touched so many lives and will continue to do so through his enduring legacy.
December 18, 2018
Leslie Jordan is supposed to be funny, and while some of the stories in this book are cute he spends much of it claiming to be repressed and shamed by his childhood Christian faith. In the proper hands his life story could be extremely interesting--but instead in his own words his life ends up coming across as shallow, ignorant, bigoted, and preachy.
It's not a traditional memoir and the book is poorly organized. He goes into little depth about most of his life, including his Tennessee upbringing and his many TV show appearances. He likes to make glib remarks without finishing full ideas, skips back and forth without making much sense, falls in love with every actor he meets, and when he doesn't want to really reveal himself he instead focuses on others. There is just plain too much about other people in this book and not about Leslie Jordan.
Sadly he wastes much of the space condemning Christianity. He admits that he no longer believes in the God that the Southern Baptists preached and he seems to be proud of the fact that he has spent his life committing the sins he was raised not to do. Meanwhile he spends decades in therapy and admits that he feels incredibly insecure. Instead of blaming the well-meaning Christians he might want to focus on the horrible choices he made for a couple decades, including random sex with male prostitutes, rampant drug abuse, alcoholism, blackouts, paying for others to get drugs, and drunk driving--for which he was tossed in jail.
It's odd to hear him brag about how bad he was without any remorse or giving enough detail for us to know how bad he really was. It seems to all be a joke to him. Meanwhile he has no problem making shocking statements that are racist, sexist, and even anti-semitic. There's nothing funny about how Jordan thinks it's okay to stereotype everyone, including himself and the men he hung out with.
He spends the last two chapters condemning religion and Christianity. He has no idea what he is talking about, yet makes ignorant statements that negatively group all believers. He is guilty of intolerance and bigotry. Any shame he has should be due to the bad choices he has made and his unwillingness to shut his mouth. To put those intolerant thoughts on paper is just embarrassing and detracts from the message he claims to be promoting.
It's not a traditional memoir and the book is poorly organized. He goes into little depth about most of his life, including his Tennessee upbringing and his many TV show appearances. He likes to make glib remarks without finishing full ideas, skips back and forth without making much sense, falls in love with every actor he meets, and when he doesn't want to really reveal himself he instead focuses on others. There is just plain too much about other people in this book and not about Leslie Jordan.
Sadly he wastes much of the space condemning Christianity. He admits that he no longer believes in the God that the Southern Baptists preached and he seems to be proud of the fact that he has spent his life committing the sins he was raised not to do. Meanwhile he spends decades in therapy and admits that he feels incredibly insecure. Instead of blaming the well-meaning Christians he might want to focus on the horrible choices he made for a couple decades, including random sex with male prostitutes, rampant drug abuse, alcoholism, blackouts, paying for others to get drugs, and drunk driving--for which he was tossed in jail.
It's odd to hear him brag about how bad he was without any remorse or giving enough detail for us to know how bad he really was. It seems to all be a joke to him. Meanwhile he has no problem making shocking statements that are racist, sexist, and even anti-semitic. There's nothing funny about how Jordan thinks it's okay to stereotype everyone, including himself and the men he hung out with.
He spends the last two chapters condemning religion and Christianity. He has no idea what he is talking about, yet makes ignorant statements that negatively group all believers. He is guilty of intolerance and bigotry. Any shame he has should be due to the bad choices he has made and his unwillingness to shut his mouth. To put those intolerant thoughts on paper is just embarrassing and detracts from the message he claims to be promoting.
January 2, 2021
I love Leslie Jordan! He's a very funny actor whom I've enjoyed in various roles on television ever since I saw him in a guest spot on Lois & Clark. His most famous (and Emmy-winning) role recently has been as Karen Walker's nemesis "Beverley Leslie" on Will & Grace. You've probably seen him in lots of shows, as well as many commercials back in the 80's. But now he's also become Internet famous during the pandemic for his charming, sweet and hilarious Instagram videos, where he addresses his audience of "fellow hunker-downers" with "Well sheeet, whatch' y'all doin?" (I can't really replicate his adorable east Tennessee accent in print, but trust me, it's kinda like that.) Anyway, I found that he'd written a memoir in 2008, long before Instagram was a thing, and I ate it up in one sitting, it's great! He tells a bunch of funny stories from his years knocking around Hollywood, acting in failed tv series after failed tv series, worried that he isn't acting "manly" enough to get the job. In between gigs he was trying to write produce and star in his own life-story movie; those are some interesting anecdotes about his difficulties with his director. He discusses growing up queer in a small Southern town, and how he had to escape to Atlanta to finally live openly, before venturing out to Hollywood. But he kind of went off the deep end as he did so, using alcohol and drugs to cover up his insecurities with himself. Jordan talks frankly throughout the book of his many years of drug and alcohol addiction and how he finally sobered up, and many of his stories involve people he knew back then. (Let's also just say here that this book is definitely rated "R" for mature readers only--but you'll be snorting your coffee through your nose reading it!) The last couple of chapters about recovery, therapy, and learning to love yourself are very inspirational. Knowing as I do from his Instagram that he also was a race jockey for many years, I was hoping for some stories from that part of his life, but he only very briefly mentions it. But since he's recently been contracted to write a second book, I'm hoping that one will maybe have some funny horse stories--fingers crossed! Now I'm off to try to find videos of some of his many performances that I've not seen before....
June 13, 2020
I have always been a fan of Leslie Jordan. When he and Karen Walker would get into it during episodes of Will & Grace, I marveled at his comic timing, his inflection of speech, and his ability to work with co-stars in a spontaneous improvisational jam like a jazz band making music in response to interpretation of each other’s sounds. After a lifetime of seeking and struggling in a “purpose in life” journey of self discovery, he’s settled on using his superpower for humor as a light in this dark world, living a life of attraction, rather than promotion. I admire his absolute candor about challenges he’s faced, decisions he’s made, actions he took, and the total acceptance he has for himself and others. Some people are on earth to be storytellers, instinctively arranging narrative details, stringing them in a monologue like the lustrous pearls on their granny’s necklace, to mesmerize listeners. Leslie’s natural gifts, born of a southern tradition, have been honed over years of standup, acting in film, television, writing, producing, and in stage performances. Watching his Instagram videos during the recent Covid-19 lockdowns kept me laughing, as I worked to structure my life to stay safe and keep my 94 year old mother protected. Watching the brief videos was like quickly popping a laugh pill, and I cherished the time he spent sharing his pandemic experiences with his “fellow hunker downers.” I enjoyed this book for it’s humor and candor, detailing a slice of life often overlooked in all its dimensions. I used voiceover on a kindle, but would much preferred to have heard his voice doing the narration, but at this point, there is no such audible edition. I hope future memoirs are in the pipeline bringing us up to date over the intervening 12 years, but would be surprised if he had the time for it.
November 24, 2025
Leslie Jordan is best known for his bravura recurring role as Karen’s nemesis, Beverley Leslie, on Will & Grace and who has also made memorable appearances on Ally McBeal, Boston Public, Monk, and Murphy Brown.
Raised in a conservative family in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Leslie—who described himself as “the gayest man I know”—boarded a Greyhound bus bound for LA with $1,200 sewn into his underpants and never looked back. His pocket-sized physique and inescapable talent for high camp paved the way to a lucrative and varied career in commercials and on television. But with success came dangerous temptations: a self-proclaimed former substance abuser and sexaholic, Leslie has spent time in jail and struggled to overcome his addictions and self-loathing.
The book's title clearly shows how he is relating his life story and the many TV shows he has been involved in. My only wish is to learn more about him, his past relationships, and what led him down a dark path at times. You do get a glimpse of his love life with the bad-boy cowboy who moves in with him, but I would have liked to learn more. Also, the book jumps around a bit through time. Yet it was a fun and easy read, and who he is as an entertainer comes through.
Raised in a conservative family in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Leslie—who described himself as “the gayest man I know”—boarded a Greyhound bus bound for LA with $1,200 sewn into his underpants and never looked back. His pocket-sized physique and inescapable talent for high camp paved the way to a lucrative and varied career in commercials and on television. But with success came dangerous temptations: a self-proclaimed former substance abuser and sexaholic, Leslie has spent time in jail and struggled to overcome his addictions and self-loathing.
The book's title clearly shows how he is relating his life story and the many TV shows he has been involved in. My only wish is to learn more about him, his past relationships, and what led him down a dark path at times. You do get a glimpse of his love life with the bad-boy cowboy who moves in with him, but I would have liked to learn more. Also, the book jumps around a bit through time. Yet it was a fun and easy read, and who he is as an entertainer comes through.
November 3, 2022
I laughed out loud for most of the book. It's hysterical but it's a bit tawdry and descriptive and blunt. If you are easily offended by sex, drugs, homosexuality; this is not the book for you.
At its heart though it's a trip through a life of self loathing and fear and drug abuse to acceptance and sobriety told by a man who was always sweet and wonderful.
A lot of us (gay or not) that carry the baggage of alcohol and drug abuse are self loathing individuals because somewhere along the line we were taught there is something innately wrong with us and unable to fix ourselves we just hate ourselves. Leslie offers up some wonderful advice and it made me stop and think how true it was and maybe I could make others understand the way I think a bit better.
What a loss to the world, this funny sweet man who through his own tragedies was teaching us how not to waste time being angry.
At its heart though it's a trip through a life of self loathing and fear and drug abuse to acceptance and sobriety told by a man who was always sweet and wonderful.
A lot of us (gay or not) that carry the baggage of alcohol and drug abuse are self loathing individuals because somewhere along the line we were taught there is something innately wrong with us and unable to fix ourselves we just hate ourselves. Leslie offers up some wonderful advice and it made me stop and think how true it was and maybe I could make others understand the way I think a bit better.
What a loss to the world, this funny sweet man who through his own tragedies was teaching us how not to waste time being angry.
January 31, 2026
I loved Leslie Jordan on Will & Grace and Reba. He is a hoot and a half which I hope he would have taken as the compliment it is meant to be. After his tragic passing, I have always wanted to read his books. I finally received this one as a gift and was a little disappointed. I thought it would be chock full of inside stories about his acting career. Don’t get me wrong there are some amusing stories particularly about working with Betty White. However this book is mainly discussing his life and his homosexuality as well as his years of drug use before his sobriety. He is very honest and has a gift for some very colorful language. He is definitely not shy when it comes to ANYTHING. I sometimes wanted to say TMI (too much information). Still even with my disappointment, I was glad to read it and might give his later book a try as it might contain more that was missing in this one.
November 2, 2022
I decided that I wanted to read Leslie Jordan's 2 books after hearing of his sudden passing. There are not too many comedians that I like or listen to. I came across Leslie Jordan's Instagram videos and really enjoyed them. I knew of Mr. Jordan before but did not really pay attention.
If anyone is feeling down, needs a lift up or just a good laugh, read this book!
I have not read a book that I have enjoyed in a long, long time! This one I throughly enjoyed!
I am onto the next book written by Mr. Jordan and anticipate that I will enjoy that one as much as this one!
Rest In Peace Leslie Jordan and Thank You for your humor and good heart!!
If anyone is feeling down, needs a lift up or just a good laugh, read this book!
I have not read a book that I have enjoyed in a long, long time! This one I throughly enjoyed!
I am onto the next book written by Mr. Jordan and anticipate that I will enjoy that one as much as this one!
Rest In Peace Leslie Jordan and Thank You for your humor and good heart!!
July 5, 2025
RIP Leslie. A pioneer, an icon, and a shining light during one of the worst times of modern history.
Unfortunately I'm not sure how I feel about this book.
There were some views espoused in here that made me think less of him, despite understanding that "times were different." Even for this being published nearly 20 years ago, there was glancing acknowledgement of social issues but I was left feeling like I just witnessed a drive-by. The last 30% of the book was just him listing off every straight man he aggressively lusted over, and I can't get over the casual mention of date rape like it was a fun thing to do on weekends 😭
Unfortunately I'm not sure how I feel about this book.
There were some views espoused in here that made me think less of him, despite understanding that "times were different." Even for this being published nearly 20 years ago, there was glancing acknowledgement of social issues but I was left feeling like I just witnessed a drive-by. The last 30% of the book was just him listing off every straight man he aggressively lusted over, and I can't get over the casual mention of date rape like it was a fun thing to do on weekends 😭
August 12, 2025
As a big fan of Leslie Jordan as Beverley Leslie in Will and Grace, I was excited to read this book (I have his other one too!) but to be honest it was just okay. This book is filled with stories from his rise to fame in Hollywood as well as his upbringing as a gay man in the south. I learned some new things about him but I felt like it was kind of missing some life lessons that he’s picked up as a result of his career and his own self-discovery journey. My Mom said it may have been funnier/more enjoyable as an audiobook as it would have had his infamous voice and character to go along with the telling of his experience in Hollywood and I agree!
November 16, 2024
It was ok, I enjoyed Leslie’s second and final biography more. I read the 2nd book first after learning of his death, then I picked up the second book. It didn’t have some of the good stories from the second book that I loved. Leslie was a good man, despite his troubles in life, he still helped people in need such as AIDS patients ready to transition to Heaven. He did talk more about his spirituality towards the end of the book, everyone has their own thoughts about it. May he Rest in Peace in Heaven.
December 19, 2025
I have adored the great Leslie Jordan since I first saw him on Will & Grace. This book is a fabulous read; his raw truth and engaging storytelling kept me hooked to his every word. I was expecting some great anecdotes and fun times; what I got was humor, insightfulness, and an enlightening perspective that made me think. The impact of his words was surprising. I could relate to so much of his struggles and the journey he had taken that the lessons he learned along the way held such meaning for me.
Leslie Jordan is a gem that is to be treasured. I dare anyone to tell me otherwise.
Leslie Jordan is a gem that is to be treasured. I dare anyone to tell me otherwise.
June 6, 2021
Loved every word!!! Leslie is so bottom belly, laugh rolling funny! He is a great inspiration and with this book has brighten my days with such crazy and funny adventures. He put somethings into perspective that has made see things that I could not have believed that have happened and helped me see things in a different light. This book is a great inspiration and gut grabbing belly laugh. Loved it!
March 5, 2023
Okay again his book is like talking to an old friend over sweet tea his charm and charism ooze from every page and he was just a fascinating human being you hear his voice as you read every word though this book is a lot less silly though still very funny but he reflects on internalized homophobia and his decade of addiction so it's a little more serious while still being a great big hug from your friend this book is a huge 10 out of 10 for me
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2023
A great little book! Entertaining, hilarious, shocking and enlightening. It has everything.
It helps if you’re already a fan of Leslie Jordan and can understand his humor. As I am a fan, I could hear his voice speaking the words as I read them which made his story even funnier.
My views on religion sync with Leslie’s too and I thought he did a great job of boiling it all down in the end of the book.
The book is short and sweet, just like Leslie Jordan.
It helps if you’re already a fan of Leslie Jordan and can understand his humor. As I am a fan, I could hear his voice speaking the words as I read them which made his story even funnier.
My views on religion sync with Leslie’s too and I thought he did a great job of boiling it all down in the end of the book.
The book is short and sweet, just like Leslie Jordan.
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