A Gilmore Matriarch Reflects on Six Decades in Show Business
There’s something magical about the way certain performers can transport us – whether it’s through a graceful dance routine, a powerhouse vocal performance, or an unforgettable character brought to life on screen. Kelly Bishop has that rare gift, having enchanted audiences for over six decades with her talents as a dancer, singer, and actress. Now, in her long-awaited memoir “The Third Gilmore Girl,” Bishop invites readers behind the curtain for an intimate look at the triumphs, heartbreaks, and unexpected twists that have shaped her remarkable life and career.
Best known for her Emmy-worthy turn as the formidable Emily Gilmore on the beloved series “Gilmore Girls,” Bishop proves to be just as captivating a storyteller on the page as she is on screen. With candor, wit, and hard-earned wisdom, she traces her journey from starry-eyed ballet student to Tony Award-winning Broadway star to scene-stealing character actress. Along the way, Bishop offers a fascinating glimpse into the ever-evolving world of show business while reflecting poignantly on love, loss, and finding the strength to keep dancing through life’s challenges.
From Pointe Shoes to Tony Award: A Star is Born
Bishop opens her memoir with vivid recollections of her Colorado childhood, painting a bittersweet portrait of a difficult home life brightened by her discovery of dance. The descriptions of her early ballet training are filled with palpable joy and determination:
“They couldn’t have been more generous to me, which motivated me to work harder and harder, and get better and better, with one single, very precise goal in mind: I wanted to thank them by following in Dimitri Romano s footsteps and become a star in the American Ballet Theatre, which was revered as a national treasure and one of the greatest dance companies in the world.”
Readers will find themselves swept up in young Kelly’s dreams as she makes the bold decision to move to New York City at just 18 years old to pursue a career in dance. Bishop doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges of breaking into show business, recounting failed auditions, financial struggles, and moments of self-doubt with refreshing honesty. But her persistence pays off as she lands coveted roles in the Radio City Music Hall corps de ballet and Vegas showgirl revues.
The narrative truly crackles with excitement as Bishop describes her involvement with the groundbreaking musical “A Chorus Line.” Her behind-the-scenes account of the show’s development—from intimate tape-recorded sessions sharing dancers’ personal stories to explosive success on Broadway—offers fascinating insight into the creation of a theatrical phenomenon. When Bishop wins the Tony Award for her performance as world-weary dancer Sheila, you can practically hear the swell of orchestral music and thunderous applause.
Transitioning from Dance to Drama
As Bishop enters her 30s, she faces the bittersweet realization that her days as a dancer are numbered. With characteristic grit and determination, she sets her sights on transitioning to acting. It’s inspiring to follow Bishop’s journey as she navigates this new chapter, taking acting classes and slowly but surely building an impressive resume of film and television roles.
Some of the most entertaining anecdotes come from Bishop’s experiences on various productions. There are laugh-out-loud stories from the set of “Dirty Dancing” (apparently nobody puts Baby in a corner, but they do serve real cocktails during filming). Bishop also shares poignant reflections on working with Hollywood legends and up-and-coming stars alike. Her perspective as a seasoned performer who has seen the industry change dramatically over the decades lends depth and nuance to these showbiz tales.
Finding Her Voice as Emily Gilmore
Of course, no memoir from Kelly Bishop would be complete without an in-depth look at her iconic role as Emily Gilmore on “Gilmore Girls.” Fans of the show will delight in Bishop’s behind-the-scenes stories and thoughtful analysis of Emily’s character development over seven seasons (and a revival). She writes with obvious affection for her TV family, particularly her on-screen husband Edward Herrmann:
“Ed and I also shared a private running joke that went on throughout the series, whenever there was a scene at the Gilmore dinner table. We’d all be called to the set, and he and I would promptly take our places at opposite ends of the table. There we’d be, just the two of us, staring at each other and looking around, waiting and waiting…”
Bishop’s insights into Emily’s complex relationships with Lorelai and Rory add new layers of depth to a beloved character. It’s clear that she poured her heart and soul into bringing Emily to life, and her pride in the show’s enduring legacy shines through on every page.
A Life Fully Lived
While Bishop’s professional achievements are certainly impressive, it’s her openness about her personal life that gives the memoir its emotional resonance. She writes movingly about her marriages—first to a compulsive gambler who nearly bankrupted her, then to the love of her life, TV personality Lee Leonard. Bishop’s account of supporting Leonard through multiple bouts of cancer is heart-wrenching in its rawness and honesty.
There are moments of levity too, like Bishop’s hilarious recollection of an ill-fated attempt at method acting:
“I told Lee as I ran past him, ‘I’m not ready for this,’ and I wasn’t, but ready or not, I had to get to my mom.”
Through it all, Bishop’s resilience and zest for life shine through. Even in her darkest moments, she finds the strength to keep moving forward, often with the help of her beloved rescue animals and loyal friends in the industry.
Reflections on Aging in Hollywood
As Bishop enters her eighth decade, she offers candid reflections on the challenges of aging in an industry obsessed with youth and beauty. Her thoughts on plastic surgery and the pressure to maintain a youthful appearance are refreshingly down-to-earth:
“On the other hand, if it’s a choice between what I look at in the mirror every morning and what a friend of mine calls being ‘one Botox shot away from the Macy’s Parade,’ or a face pulled so tightly that I have that look of being perpetually startled, I’ll stick with what I’ve got, thanks.”
Rather than lamenting the passage of time, Bishop chooses to celebrate the wisdom and perspective she’s gained over the years. Her attitude is undeniably inspiring, reminding readers that it’s never too late to pursue your passions and keep growing as a person.
A Memoir That Dances Off the Page
“The Third Gilmore Girl” is a true pleasure to read, striking the perfect balance between showbiz dish and thoughtful introspection. Bishop’s voice is warm, witty, and refreshingly down-to-earth; reading her memoir feels like sitting down for coffee with a dear friend who just happens to have some amazing stories to tell.
The book is enhanced by a collection of personal photographs that bring Bishop’s journey to life visually. From adorable childhood dance recital shots to glamorous red carpet moments, these images offer a lovely complement to the narrative.
Who Should Read This Book?
- Fans of “Gilmore Girls” who want to know more about the actress behind Emily
- Aspiring performers looking for inspiration and practical advice
- Anyone who loves a good Hollywood memoir filled with behind-the-scenes stories
- Readers who appreciate honest reflections on aging, loss, and resilience
Similar Books You Might Enjoy
- “In Pieces” by Sally Field
- “Born With Teeth” by Kate Mulgrew
- “Home Work: A Memoir of My Hollywood Years” by Julie Andrews
Final Thoughts: A Standing Ovation-Worthy Memoir
Kelly Bishop has crafted a memoir that is every bit as entertaining, moving, and memorable as her performances on stage and screen. “The Third Gilmore Girl” is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of following your passions, and the joy of a life lived authentically. Bishop’s storytelling prowess shines through on every page, making this an absolute must-read for fans and newcomers alike.
As the final curtain falls on this captivating memoir, readers will likely find themselves feeling inspired, uplifted, and grateful for the chance to have spent time in Kelly Bishop’s delightful company. It’s the kind of book that reminds us why we fall in love with performers in the first place—their ability to touch our hearts, spark our imaginations, and maybe even inspire us to chase our own dreams.
In the end, “The Third Gilmore Girl” is more than just a collection of showbiz anecdotes (though there are plenty of those to enjoy). It’s a celebration of a life fully lived, with all its messy, beautiful, unexpected twists and turns. Kelly Bishop has given us the gift of her story, and it’s one that will linger in readers’ minds long after the last page is turned.
So grab a cup of coffee (or a martini, if you’re feeling particularly Emily Gilmore-esque), settle in, and prepare to be thoroughly charmed by this delightful memoir. Kelly Bishop’s life story is proof that sometimes, the most captivating performances happen off-stage – and “The Third Gilmore Girl” deserves a standing ovation.