The Mother of Black Hollywood: A Memoir

Jenifer Lewis

Nov 2017 · Sold by HarperCollins

About this ebook

National Book Club Conference ‘Book of the Year’ Award Winner

From her more than three hundred appearances for film and television, stage and cabaret, performing comedy or drama, as an unforgettable lead or a scene stealing supporting character, Jenifer Lewis has established herself as one of the most respected, admired, talented, and versatile entertainers working today.

This “Mega Diva” and costar of the hit sitcom black-ish bares her soul in this touching and poignant—and at times side-splittingly hilarious—memoir of a Midwestern girl with a dream, whose journey took her from poverty to the big screen, and along the way earned her many accolades.

With candor and warmth, Jenifer Lewis reveals the heart of a woman who lives life to the fullest. This multitalented “force of nature” landed her first Broadway role within eleven days of her graduation from college and later earned the title “Reigning Queen of High-Camp Cabaret.”

In the audaciously honest voice that her fans adore, Jenifer describes her transition to Hollywood, with guest roles on hits like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Friends. Her movie Jackie’s Back! became a cult favorite, and as the “Mama” to characters portrayed by Whitney Houston, Tupac Shakur, Taraji P. Henson, and many more, Jenifer cemented her status as the “Mother of Black Hollywood.”         

When an undiagnosed mental illness stymies Jenifer’s career, culminating in a breakdown while filming The Temptations, her quest for wholeness becomes a harrowing and inspiring tale, including revelations of bipolar disorder and sex addiction.

Written with no-holds-barred honesty and illustrated with more than forty color photographs, this gripping memoir is filled with insights gained through a unique life that offers a universal message: “Love yourself so that love will not be a stranger when it comes.”

Ratings and reviews

Very interesting view of American and performance history. Often dulled with stories about her then flown thru more interesting parts. Good advocate for mental health awareness.

What a delight to listen to Queen Mother Jenifer Lewis! She candidly shares her life story in a beautiful way that is powerful and intriguing. I cried a few times too. I love this woman!

I'm so happy that Miss Lewis wrote this book. I've loved her work for as long as I can remember. Stories like hers are so important. She is an American treasure.

About the author

Jenifer Lewis (deemed a “national treasure” by TV Guide.com) has appeared in more than three hundred television and film roles. She currently stars on the hit ABC show black-ish. She lives in Los Angeles with her bichon frise, Butters Lewis, and has a drag queen named Shangela living in her basement.