Almost Famous: Recollections by Robin Hawdon

Few people’s careers have spanned as many aspects of the show business world as have Robin Hawdon’s. From stage, TV, and film actor (who came close to being James Bond), to playwright performed in over forty countries, to West End stage director, to mainstream Theatre Director, to prize-winning novelist, his activities include both triumphs and major setbacks.

In the course of such a long career he has either worked with, or encountered, some of the most famous names around. From the British stage, John Gielgud, Ralph Richardson, Laurence Olivier, John Mills, Anthony Hopkins, Jonathan Pryce, and Michael Crawford. From Hollywood, such as Charlton Heston, Lauren Bacall, Deborah Kerr, Vivien Leigh, Elizabeth Taylor, Warren Beatty, and Judy Garland. From the world of comedy, Kenneth Williams, Frankie Howerd, Terry Scott, Peter Cook, and Dudley Moore. From politics, Harold Macmillan, Anthony Wedgewood Benn, and Chris Patten. And many more.

Here are told stories of those encounters, together with entertaining tales of Hawdon’s lively domestic life spread over four different countries, his reflections on the national characteristics of the French, Spanish, American, and Australian peoples, his joyous indulgence in the delights of their cultures and social eccentricities, and his dramatic exploits in their property markets.

almost famous book cover
5 out of 5 rating

Reviews

A very readable and well paced story of a varied and eventful life. A jack of quite a few trades and a master of most of them, Robin has been blessed with a happy marriage, a great family and a positive outlook on life – and is wise enough to realise how lucky he’s been. Recommended. – David Williamson

…Extraordinary memoir by one of the England’s best loved playwrights… – kelly c kammerer

A fascinating insight into the background of two professions that are fast changing. A very easy read and informative for anybody who wants to be an actor or a writer. – Kenneth W. Farrington

A well told story of a man who has devoted his life to the stage as an actor, playwright and theatre manager. Some brilliant anecdotes of his time working with many household names. Robin has a marriage and family that is the envy of most of us, as well as a globe-trotting lifestyle. A free-spirit, who thankfuly has avoided getting sucked into corporate life or a career structure as he has got older, avoiding the fate that chokes most family men eventually!! – Big John

A terrific book, well worth a read. Highly recommended – Robin Carr