The Third Gilmore Girl: A Memoir

As any devoted fan of Gilmore Girls would, I picked up Kelly Bishop’s memoir and devoured it within days. Like many, I approached the book expecting behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the beloved series, anecdotes about creating Emily Gilmore, and reflections on this defining role. However, what I discovered was so much more. Bishop’s memoir is an expansive, compelling portrait of an actress whose career has spanned decades, from her groundbreaking work on Broadway to her television triumphs. While Gilmore Girls may be her most famous role, it is clear that Bishop’s life and career have been filled with achievements that extend far beyond Stars Hollow.

The book begins by exploring Bishop’s roots and her earliest artistic aspirations. As someone primarily familiar with her television work, I was struck by the depth of her accomplishments on Broadway, particularly her involvement in the iconic musical A Chorus Line. In this production, Bishop (then known by her stage name, Carole Bishop) played Sheila, a character whose brash confidence and vulnerability mirrored some of the traits readers would later recognise in Bishop herself. However, Bishop’s role in A Chorus Line was more than just a performance; she was an integral part of the process that brought this revolutionary musical to life. Her memoir recounts the collaborative spirit and artistic risks that shaped the show, providing musical theatre fans with fascinating insights into one of Broadway’s most celebrated productions.

For readers unfamiliar with Bishop’s Broadway career, these early chapters offer a fresh perspective on her artistry and determination. She delves into the challenges of being a stage actress and the bold decisions that defined her journey. Her anecdotes are laced with humor, honesty, and the kind of grit that reveals a person deeply committed to her craft. It’s impossible not to feel inspired by her passion, even as she acknowledges the sacrifices and struggles that came with it.

Bishop’s ability to navigate the complexities of life in show business becomes a recurring theme in her memoir. She writes candidly about the ups and downs of her career, from the exhilarating highs of Tony Award-winning performances to the quieter moments of reinvention and perseverance. Her reflections are both deeply personal and universally relatable, offering readers a window into the realities of a life devoted to art.

The memoir also explores Bishop’s personal life, with carefully chosen stories that shed light on the experiences that shaped her. She shares moments from her childhood, early aspirations, and the relationships that influenced her path. These glimpses into her personal history are woven seamlessly into the narrative, creating a memoir that feels both intimate and expansive. Bishop writes about her struggles with loss and her enduring resilience with a poignancy that is deeply moving. She also touches on her political convictions and the values that have guided her, adding a layer of depth that feels especially relevant in today’s climate.

Of course, for many fans, the highlight of the memoir is Bishop’s discussion of Gilmore Girls. While the book is not exclusively focused on the show, it offers meaningful insights into her time as Emily Gilmore, a character who has become iconic in her own right. Bishop writes about the joy she found in bringing such a complex, sharp-witted character to life. Her reflections on the dynamic between Emily, Lorelai, and Rory add a new layer of appreciation for the show’s intricate family relationships.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of this section is Bishop’s recollection of her relationships with the Gilmore Girls cast. She writes fondly about Edward Herrmann, who played her on-screen husband Richard Gilmore, describing their bond both on and off screen. Their camaraderie brought authenticity to the shows most enduring partnerships. Bishop also expresses her admiration and deep friendship with writer and producer Amy Sherman-Palladino, whose vision shaped the unique tone and rhythm of the series.

However, I couldn’t help but feel that the chapters dedicated to Gilmore Girls could have offered a little more. Given the significance of the role in her career - and the title of the memoir - I expected more behind-the-scenes stories and reflections on her time in the show. While Bishop does touch on memorable moments, such as her experience returning for the 2016 revival, A Year in the Life, the section feels like there was a lot more to give in a memoir that had space for some more content.

That said, what Bishop does share about Gilmore Girls is both touching and illuminating. Fans will enjoy her insights into Emily’s evolution and her reflections on how the character mirrored certain aspects of her families and her own personality. It’s also fascinating to learn about the story behind her title, “The Third Gilmore Girl.” These anecdotes, though brief, capture the love and respect Bishop had for the show and its impact on her career.

As someone who hasn’t read an autobiographical book in quite some time, I found Kelly Bishop’s memoir to be a refreshing and engaging read. For fans of Gilmore Girls, it offers a deeper appreciation for one of the show’s most beloved characters. For theatre lovers, it provides an insider’s look at the creation of a Broadway masterpiece. And for anyone interested in the life of an artist, it’s a story of resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence.

By the end of the memoir, I came away with a newfound respect for Kelly Bishop - not just as an actress, but as a person who has lived a life full of purpose and passion. Her story is a celebration of a remarkable career and a testament to the power of art to transform lives. As I revisit Gilmore Girls now, I see Emily Gilmore through a new lens, informed by the depth and complexity that Bishop brought to both her character and her own life.