Jennifer Saunders to write autobiography for Penguin

Penguin imprint Viking has signed comedian Jennifer Saunders' autobiography, to be published this autumn.

Saunders achieved fame as in the alternative comedy scene of the 1980s, working closely with other performers such as Dawn French and Ade Edmondson, whom she later married. She created and starred in the sitcom "Absolutely Fabulous", as well as recently writing the script for the Spice Girls musical, Viva Forever!

The comedienne said: “As the steady march of time takes its toll on my memory and the vultures circle, I thought I should have a stab at recollecting how it all happened. At the moment it is blur of funny stories which I shall put into a word processor and see what comes out the other end.  I also owe thanks to Clare Balders for inspiration and for the introduction to Joel.”

Joel Rickett, Publisher of Viking, said: “We’re thrilled that Jennifer Saunders feels this is the moment to write her life story, and we feel so lucky that she’s chosen to work with Penguin. From Comic Strip to French & Saunders to Absolutely Fabulous, she has written and performed in dozens of the best-loved series, films and shows of the past three decades. Her characters are household names, but it’s Jennifer herself who has a place in all our hearts. She’s going to write a funny, true book filled with extraordinary stories. It will reach an enormous readership.”

Viking acquired world rights from Maureen Vincent and Robert Kirby at United Agents.