Books like In Spite of Myself by Christopher Plummer

Christopher Plummer’s memoir offers an intimate autobiographical portrait of his journey from a privileged Canadian upbringing—born on a Friday the 13th in 1929—to becoming one of the world’s most esteemed actors. The book recounts his early forays into theatre as an 18‑year‑old playing Shakespeare in *Cymbeline*, his Broadway debut at twenty‑five, and his pivotal roles at the Stratford Festival and Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Plummer candidly shares the influences of mentors such as Ruth Chatterton, Eva Le Gallienne, Katherine Cornell, and G­uthrie McClintic, as well as collaborations with producers Kermit Bloomgarden, Robert Whitehead and Roger Stevens. The narrative extends to his film work, including parts in *The Sound of Music* and *The Man Who Would Be King*, and offers personal reflections on relationships with fellow actors like Raymond Massey, Kate Reid, and Jason Robards, Jr., alongside his family life and the impact of his daughter Amanda in the arts. The memoir provides readers with a rich, factual account of the actor’s experiences across stage, screen, and stage history.

First publish date: 2008