Wishful Drinking

Carrie Fisher's play on Broadway at Studio 54

Wishful Drinking is a biographical book by Carrie Fisher, published in 2008. It is a humorous and candid account of Fisher's life, dealing with her experiences as the daughter of Hollywood royalty, her role as Princess Leia in the Star Wars franchise, her battles with addiction, and her journey through mental illness and recovery. The book is based on Fisher's one-woman stage show of the same name, which she had been performing since 2006.

Synopsis

Wishful Drinking begins with Fisher recounting waking up next to a dead friend, which serves as a wake-up call and prompts her to reflect on her life. She delves into her complicated family tree, including her parents, Debbie Reynolds and Eddie Fisher, and their high-profile divorce when Fisher was very young. She also discusses her own failed marriages, including her relationship with Paul Simon.

Fisher does not shy away from discussing her struggles with bipolar disorder and drug addiction, offering insights into her experiences with rehabilitation and electroconvulsive therapy. Despite the heavy topics, Fisher's wit and humor permeate the narrative, making it an engaging and often hilarious read.

The book also explores Fisher's relationship with her daughter, Billie Lourd, and her reflections on aging and mortality. Throughout, Fisher's voice is candid and unapologetic, providing a raw and real look at her life behind the scenes.

Reception

Wishful Drinking received critical acclaim for its honesty, humor, and insight. Critics praised Fisher's ability to tackle difficult subjects with wit and grace, making her story accessible and relatable. The book became a New York Times bestseller and further cemented Fisher's reputation as a talented writer and storyteller.

Stage Show

The book was adapted from Fisher's one-woman stage show, which she performed in various cities across the United States. The show, like the book, received positive reviews for Fisher's performance and her ability to connect with the audience on a personal level. It was later filmed for an HBO documentary special, bringing Fisher's story to an even wider audience.

Legacy

Wishful Drinking is considered an important work in the discussion of mental health, addiction, and recovery. Fisher's openness about her struggles has been credited with helping to destigmatize these issues and encourage others to seek help. The book remains a beloved memoir for fans of Fisher and those interested in the complexities of life in the public eye.