What Have We Here?

Praise

“The story of a legend, written by the legend himself! Reading What Have We Here? is nearly as good as actually sitting with Billy Dee Williams and listening to his myriad remarkable stories. Impressive, inspiring, entertaining and endearing.”  —J. J. Abrams

“Effortlessly charming. . . [Williams] writes with clarity and intimacy, revealing the person behind the persona. . . . At 86, he still enjoys the ride, but hasn’t forgotten to savor the magic. This book is an invitation to join him.” —Maya S. Cade, The New York Times Book Review

“At 86, [Williams] looks back on his life and storied career. . . . Williams writes candidly about his marriages, his love affairs, interactions with his costars, and the frustrations of being a Black actor in the 1970s. . . . A juicy memoir from a legendary actor. Celebrity watchers will enjoy.” —Rosellen “Rosy” Brewer, Library Journal

“Billy Dee Williams, an iconic actor, has been a significant part of the entertainment industry for nearly eight decades. . . . In his memoir, he recounts his growing up in Harlem, his friendships with such luminaries as Laurence Olivier, Marlon Brando, James Baldwin, and Diana Ross, and his three marriages. As he inspires readers to seize every moment, follow their dreams, and never let anything hold them back, his life story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration . . . Williams will be as much of a draw on the page as he is on the screen.” —Sharon Wyatt, Booklist

“Billy Dee Williams is a man of wonderful talents – a great actor, a renowned artist and now terrific writer. He takes us behind the scenes of his journey from Harlem to Hollywood and beyond. His star quality is magnetic on screen and off and I invite you to share in his most revealing and compelling story.”  —Berry Gordy Founder, Motown

“Williams ruminates on his professional triumphs, disappointments . . . and friendships . . . [he] writes with the panache and suavity that characterize his screen presence. The result is a heartfelt Hollywood self-portrait.” —Publishers Weekly

★ “The debonair actor crafts a memoir that rivals his greatest characters . . . the narrative often reads like fiction . . . The author always retains his cool, laid-back style, whether he’s discussing how he landed breakthrough roles as Gale Sayers in Brian’s Song and Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise, or his friendships with great actors such as Laurence Olivier and Marlon Brando or author James Baldwin. Despite his own numerous issues with racism and discrimination, Williams has always maintained a cool head and used his experiences as a Black man to inform his art in a way that is relatable to all people . . . Williams makes it all sound fascinating.” —Kirkus (starred review)