In this refreshingly candid memoir, Denise speaks openly and sensitively about her rollercoaster career, her struggles in a past high-profile relationship and the betrayal she suffered at the hands of those once closest to her, with the hope that in doing so, she can help empower others to avoid and overcome any similar difficulties they may face.
Denise shot to fame on The Big Breakfast in her early twenties. After a decade grafting through theatre jobs and children’s TV shows, she was finally living the dream. However her life soon turned into a nightmare off-screen and behind the headlines as her heart was broken in a very public relationship, whilst her every move was printed in the tabloids thanks to her phone being tapped. After receiving a panning by the critics for her late night TV show aimed at the post-pub crowd, she then auditioned for and accepted an offer to play Roxie Hart in Chicago, which turned out to be a life-changing experience. The role took her to Broadway, where she caught the eye of one Andrew Lloyd Webber, eventually landing a judging role on Any Dream Will Do, which saw her rise back to primetime and the career that she loves, where she has stayed and flourished.
Now, in her first memoir, Denise tells her story with disarming candour, unafraid to reveal vulnerabilities beneath the cheerful exterior. Tackling difficult subjects of corrosive self-doubt, betrayal, invasions of privacy and professional struggles, interjected with the familiar humour that we all know and love, A Bit of Me is personal, at times raw, often mischievous and always compelling. Denise has lived the life, learned the lessons, and Basildon to Broadway and back is a hell of a journey.
**A Bit of Me: The Unfiltered Story of Denise Van Outen From The Big Breakfast to Broadway and Beyond** Dive into the captivating and deeply personal memoir, *A Bit of Me*, by the beloved British entertainer, Denise Van Outen. This hardcover edition offers a refreshingly candid look behind the dazzling facade, revealing the highs and lows of a life lived in the spotlight. More than just a celebrity autobiography, *A Bit of Me* is a powerful story of resilience, self-discovery, and the courage to overcome adversity. Denise Van Outen, a name synonymous with British television and theatre, lays bare her journey from a determined young performer to a household name. She takes you behind the scenes of her breakthrough role on *The Big Breakfast*, sharing the whirlwind experience of instant fame and the pressures that came with it. But this isn't just a celebration of success. Denise bravely confronts the challenges she faced, including a highly publicized and painful relationship breakdown. She exposes the sting of betrayal by those she trusted and the relentless scrutiny of the tabloid press, including the shocking revelation of having her phone tapped. Experience Denise's journey through professional setbacks, including the critical drubbing of her late-night TV show. Witness her incredible transformation as she takes on the iconic role of Roxie Hart in *Chicago*, a role that would change her life forever. Follow her to Broadway, where she captivated audiences and caught the attention of theatrical impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber, leading to her judging role on *Any Dream Will Do*. This marked a triumphant return to primetime television and a reaffirmation of her passion for performing. *A Bit of Me* is more than just a recounting of career milestones; it's an intimate exploration of Denise's personal struggles with self-doubt and the constant pressure to maintain a cheerful public image. She fearlessly confronts issues of privacy invasion and the corrosive effects of negative media attention. Interwoven with her signature wit and humour, the memoir offers moments of levity and heartwarming anecdotes, reminding readers of the Denise Van Outen they know and love. What sets *A Bit of Me* apart is Denise's willingness to be vulnerable and authentic. She doesn't shy away from the difficult subjects, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of her inner world. The book resonates with anyone who has faced challenges in their own lives, offering a message of hope and empowerment. It's a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of adversity. This memoir also offers fascinating insights into the world of entertainment, from the cutthroat competition in theatre to the relentless demands of television. Denise provides a behind-the-scenes look at the making of some of Britain's most popular shows, sharing anecdotes and observations that will delight fans. Readers will gain a new appreciation for the hard work and dedication that goes into creating the magic of the entertainment industry. *A Bit of Me* is a captivating read for fans of Denise Van Outen, as well as anyone interested in celebrity memoirs, stories of overcoming adversity, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of entertainment. This 320-page hardcover edition, published by Ebury Press in 2022, is a must-have for anyone seeking an honest, engaging, and ultimately inspiring story of a life lived to the fullest. Discover the real Denise Van Outen in *A Bit of Me* a journey from Basildon to Broadway and back, filled with laughter, tears, and the unwavering pursuit of dreams.