Headline to publish Michael Douglas' memoir
Headline, a division of Hachette UK, is set to publish the memoir from Michael Douglas. The book, currently untitled, is scheduled for publication on 6th October 2026, in hardcover, e-book and audiobook editions.
Alex Clarke, publishing director at Headline, and Colin Dickerman, senior vice president and editor-in-chief at Grand Central Publishing, acquired World Rights from Shane Salerno of The Story Factory. The book will publish simultaneously in the US and the UK and Commonwealth. Michael Fleming is collaborating with Douglas on the book.
Douglas is the winner of two Academy Awards, a BAFTA, five Golden Globes, a Primetime Emmy, two Screen Actors Guild Awards and the AFI Life Achievement Award, among many others. His filmography includes One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Romancing the Stone, The China Syndrome, Fatal Attraction, Black Rain, Wall Street, Basic Instinct, Disclosure, The Game, Wonder Boys, Traffic and Behind the Candelabra.
In his memoir, Douglas "tells the unfiltered story of his life in a raw, career-sweeping memoir that traces his journey from his father, Kirk Douglas’ shadow to his own stardom, revealing his personal challenges, including addiction that threatened his marriage and career, love affairs, as well as his son’s devastating drug addiction and prison sentence".
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He said: "After being asked for many years, I’ve finally decided it’s time to tell my story on my own terms. Not the highlight reel, not the version shaped by headlines or box office success, but the real one.
"I’ve lived a life that unfolded in public while being deeply private at the same time, and there’s a difference. This is about where I came from, what I fought against, and what I chose for myself. Fame can blur the truth; this is my attempt to bring it back into focus."
Clarke said: "Michael Douglas has had a truly remarkable and storied career in Hollywood, spanning six decades and roles in so many iconic and award-winning films. Alongside this success and acclaim Michael has a truly remarkable personal journey – battling addiction and family struggles, as well as championing heartfelt causes. We can’t wait to share Michael’s extraordinary life story with readers around the world."
Dickerman said: "Growing up in the shadow of a Hollywood legend, navigating a risk-taking career that has spanned six decades and included films that defined our culture, privately fighting health and family battles while in the glare of the spotlight – Douglas’ life is a towering achievement in perseverance.
"That he has chosen to tell his story with such honesty and intimacy is a gift to his fans as well as everyone who wants a front row seat to Hollywood’s most turbulent and thrilling years."
