Arsenio

A Memoir

By: Arsenio Hall

Narrated by: Arsenio Hall

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

Arsenio Hall, America’s beloved late-night TV host, reveals the ups and downs of his remarkable career as a trailblazing pioneer with this “vivid, outrageous” (The New York Times)behind-the-scenes, star-studded, no-holds-barred memoir of celebrity, race, and show business.

Arsenio Hall holds a uniquely prominent place in American culture—celebrated late-night host and comedic actor, famed for starring roles in the cultural touchstones Coming to America and Harlem Nights.

Now, he pulls back the curtain and takes us to a different time in Hollywood. Iconic scenes include: starting out as a young magician in Cleveland; hosting his first talk show in the basement of his apartment building when he was in elementary school; cutting his teeth at the world-famous Comedy Store in Hollywood, learning about comedy and life from legendary comedian Richard Pryor; forming lifelong bonds with legendary icons Muhammad Ali, Luther Vandross, Sammy Davis, Jr., and Eddie Murphy; tasting superstar success with Coming to America, the film that preceded The Arsenio Hall Show; conducting unforgettable, groundbreaking interviews with Magic Johnson, Bill Clinton, Tupac Shakur, Maya Angelou, Madonna, and Minister Louis Farrakhan; rescuing a family from a home-fire with Jay Leno; sharing hot sauces and blackjack with Patti LaBelle; and chilling with Prince.

And then, he made the difficult decision to walk away.

This bracingly candid memoir offers a new appreciation for this raw talent and gifted storyteller, who nightly, for six years, hosted what felt like a televised “party” that changed the landscape of late-night television and brought Black culture into living rooms across America.

With this book, he does it one more time.

A legend

I love this story. Super inspiring. It kind of bounced around a little bit, so it was hard to follow at times, but the story was the story of a legend.

Amazing 5 Stars

This book was amazing. I didn’t grow up watching the show, but always been a fan of Arsenio. I learned so much about his life and the life of the show. He eulogized all parties, ones no longer with us and those still living. Double salute. The world is a better place with this book on shelves. Now I get to go on YouTube and witness these moments. Thank you, Arsenio.

Fascinating story

Really enjoyed the story it reminded me of the cultural impact the show had and provided insight into what Arsenio had to endure behind the scenes. His impressions of the various famous guests was a bonus!

Way better than expected!

I've been in the TV biz for 40 years and my background is shockingly similar to Arsenio and Johnny. This audio book is insightful,well-narrated, and very entertaining. Lot's of stuff you've never heard before. A fascinating story for everyone from ANY background. Enjoy!

Honesty

Mr.Hall demonstrated a hard-work ethic with a feverish dedication to providing the world (both black AND white) an entertainment avenue heretofore unseen by the American viewing public. We are all richer for his efforts. The book details his struggles and successes and teaches us all the value of truly appreciating each other and coming together. Thank you, sir.