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Rebel Rising
From the scene-stealing star of Pitch Perfect and Bridesmaids comes a refreshingly candid, hilarious, and inspiring book about her unconventional journey to Hollywood success and loving herself.
For decades, Rebel Wilson had single-mindedly focused on her career, making a name for herself through her iconic roles in Pitch Perfect , Bridesmaids , and Isn’t It Romantic . Now, she’s ready to chronicle the emotional and physical lessons she learned, as well as her most embarrassing experiences. A malaria-induced hallucination? An all-style martial arts fighting tournament? Junior handling at dog shows? And this was all BEFORE she moved to Hollywood!
Rebel Rising follows Rebel Wilson’s incredible journey of “making it,” constantly questioning, “Am I good enough? Will I ever find love? Will I ever change and become healthy?” Rebel writes for the first time about the most personal and important moments in her life—from fertility issues, weight gain and loss, sexuality, overcoming shyness, rejections, and, well...okay there’s at least one story thrown in about Brad Pitt! It’s all here. This memoir shows us how to love ourselves while making us laugh uncontrollably.
For decades, Rebel Wilson had single-mindedly focused on her career, making a name for herself through her iconic roles in Pitch Perfect , Bridesmaids , and Isn’t It Romantic . Now, she’s ready to chronicle the emotional and physical lessons she learned, as well as her most embarrassing experiences. A malaria-induced hallucination? An all-style martial arts fighting tournament? Junior handling at dog shows? And this was all BEFORE she moved to Hollywood!
Rebel Rising follows Rebel Wilson’s incredible journey of “making it,” constantly questioning, “Am I good enough? Will I ever find love? Will I ever change and become healthy?” Rebel writes for the first time about the most personal and important moments in her life—from fertility issues, weight gain and loss, sexuality, overcoming shyness, rejections, and, well...okay there’s at least one story thrown in about Brad Pitt! It’s all here. This memoir shows us how to love ourselves while making us laugh uncontrollably.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published April 2, 2024
689 people are currently reading
12535 people want to read
About the author
Rebel Wilson
7 books54 followersRebel Melanie Elizabeth Wilson (born 3 February 1986) is an Australian actress, writer, entrepreneur, and stand-up comedian.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,666 reviews
June 17, 2024
you’ve heard of a “Rebel without a cause” now get ready for a Rebel without anything interesting to say
April 8, 2024
I've seen several Rebel Wilson films Bridesmaids, How to be Single, all 3 Pitch Perfect films but I wouldn't say I'm a fan. I don't think much about her or her personal life but I heard that she thinks Sasha Baron Cohen is an asshole and I've always thought he was a asshole so why not read her book.
I'm not sure how I feel about this book. Rebel Wilson has had an interesting life but her book is kinda boring. I don't know how to describe it but I just didn't feel anything while reading this. I think Rebel is a nice person and I'd probably like her if we met in real life but she's just not a very compelling writer( I'm sure she probably had a ghost writer but still).
I know lots of people don't rate Memoirs because they don't want to rate someone's life but I do because they put a price on their life. They got paid to write their book and they charge money to buy it....so I'm giving this book 2.5 Stars.
I'm not sure how I feel about this book. Rebel Wilson has had an interesting life but her book is kinda boring. I don't know how to describe it but I just didn't feel anything while reading this. I think Rebel is a nice person and I'd probably like her if we met in real life but she's just not a very compelling writer( I'm sure she probably had a ghost writer but still).
I know lots of people don't rate Memoirs because they don't want to rate someone's life but I do because they put a price on their life. They got paid to write their book and they charge money to buy it....so I'm giving this book 2.5 Stars.
April 26, 2024
The Good:
I enjoyed the first half of the book, where we learn about Rebel growing up in Australia, her year abroad in South Africa, and her early career before she hit it big. Of course, there were some signs that Rebel is a little out of touch with what it means to be poor. She went to a costly all-girls private school where, no doubt, the majority of her classmates were wealthy, which certainly made her feel more inadequate by comparison. However, she seems to play up the bogan (Aussie white trash) thing a bit much. If your grandmother has a beach house, you are not poor. If your family can afford to FLY to America to go to DISNEYLAND, you are not struggling. My family could never afford vacations, private school, or a beach house, but I would never describe us as poor, so it felt off. I don't think Rebel is lying, I think she is shallow and materialist. Sorry, this was supposed to describe what I liked about the book.
We got to know Rebel Wilson, and her writing was conversational.
The Bad:
Rebel Wilson certainly thinks highly of Rebel Wilson, to a somewhat nauseating degree. You don't need to tell us that you are kind, intelligent, talented, and brave; the stories you share with us should paint that picture. The problem is they didn't.
What makes Rebel kind? Well, she tells us about all the charity money she donates...but where does she demonstrate kindness to those around her?
What makes Rebel intellegent? Well, she got excellent grades, went to a very good school, and graduated from law school...but where are the thoughtful insights and clever writing in this book?
What makes Rebel talented? Well, she is famous...ironically, for being a comedic actress and writer, so you would think there would be at least one laugh in this book. (you would be wrong)
What makes Rebel brave? Well, she is a lesbian... in 2023...when it has never been more acceptable, and she has faced zero repercussions. She...checks notes.... sued a media company?
There was a part in the book that could have demonstrated real bravery. She talks about how uncomfortable she felt working with Sacha Baron Cohen (I don't doubt he is an asshole), how she felt demeaned and sexually harassed, how he pressured her to do a sex scene she didn't want to do, and that was not in the original script. She did it anyway. She didn't go public with it until years later when she had a book to sell. As she recounted the story, she said she stayed and put up with it because she didn't want to lose her career. That is not bravery. Would she have said anything if the movie had been a hit? Would she have done the sequel?
Curiously, she skims over a topic I thought would have its own chapter in the book, the primetime TV show she starred in, wrote, and produced. I loved Super Fun Night. I recorded all the episodes and watched them multiple times. However, it wasn't commercially successful, so Rebel wrote it off. She just mentioned that it was really hard, and she didn't get as much creative freedom as she wanted (it was someone else's fault). However, the only example she gives is about the network fighting her on the wi-fi password of her character being "tit rhino". Yes, I'm sure that's what makes or breaks a show.
Rebel talks a lot about self-love and being unique, but that doesn't ring true. She only demonstrates that she is obsessed with the superficial: being famous, being deemed 'important,' being accepted, being praised, being rich, having nice things, and going on expensive trips.
Do we need pages and pages about her birthday on a private island (in 2021, when most people were still dealing with covid)? But she needs you to know that it was the same island where Kim Kardashian had her birthday. She needs you to know that family and friends spent the week celebrating her.
Speaking of Kim Kardashian, the amount of name-dropping in this book is staggering and usually wholly unnecessary. It just felt so... tacky.
The Ugly:
I must point out the hypocrisy that slapped me in the face. Rebel complains about male executives commenting that they would "bang" an attractive woman who walks by. Then, she turns around and talks about how she wanted to lick Brad Pitt's face when he was sitting next to her in a work meeting. Later in the book, again referencing Brad Pitt, she mentions that he made her "a little more than wet in my Spanx". How about when she jokes about writing sketches requiring Channing Tatum to grab her breast?
In summary, I came into this as a fan, and I am walking away disappointed. I hope Rebel realizes there is more to life than chasing happiness and self-worship. There is more to life than Instagram likes and $25,000 lamps for a baby nursery.
I enjoyed the first half of the book, where we learn about Rebel growing up in Australia, her year abroad in South Africa, and her early career before she hit it big. Of course, there were some signs that Rebel is a little out of touch with what it means to be poor. She went to a costly all-girls private school where, no doubt, the majority of her classmates were wealthy, which certainly made her feel more inadequate by comparison. However, she seems to play up the bogan (Aussie white trash) thing a bit much. If your grandmother has a beach house, you are not poor. If your family can afford to FLY to America to go to DISNEYLAND, you are not struggling. My family could never afford vacations, private school, or a beach house, but I would never describe us as poor, so it felt off. I don't think Rebel is lying, I think she is shallow and materialist. Sorry, this was supposed to describe what I liked about the book.
We got to know Rebel Wilson, and her writing was conversational.
The Bad:
Rebel Wilson certainly thinks highly of Rebel Wilson, to a somewhat nauseating degree. You don't need to tell us that you are kind, intelligent, talented, and brave; the stories you share with us should paint that picture. The problem is they didn't.
What makes Rebel kind? Well, she tells us about all the charity money she donates...but where does she demonstrate kindness to those around her?
What makes Rebel intellegent? Well, she got excellent grades, went to a very good school, and graduated from law school...but where are the thoughtful insights and clever writing in this book?
What makes Rebel talented? Well, she is famous...ironically, for being a comedic actress and writer, so you would think there would be at least one laugh in this book. (you would be wrong)
What makes Rebel brave? Well, she is a lesbian... in 2023...when it has never been more acceptable, and she has faced zero repercussions. She...checks notes.... sued a media company?
There was a part in the book that could have demonstrated real bravery. She talks about how uncomfortable she felt working with Sacha Baron Cohen (I don't doubt he is an asshole), how she felt demeaned and sexually harassed, how he pressured her to do a sex scene she didn't want to do, and that was not in the original script. She did it anyway. She didn't go public with it until years later when she had a book to sell. As she recounted the story, she said she stayed and put up with it because she didn't want to lose her career. That is not bravery. Would she have said anything if the movie had been a hit? Would she have done the sequel?
Curiously, she skims over a topic I thought would have its own chapter in the book, the primetime TV show she starred in, wrote, and produced. I loved Super Fun Night. I recorded all the episodes and watched them multiple times. However, it wasn't commercially successful, so Rebel wrote it off. She just mentioned that it was really hard, and she didn't get as much creative freedom as she wanted (it was someone else's fault). However, the only example she gives is about the network fighting her on the wi-fi password of her character being "tit rhino". Yes, I'm sure that's what makes or breaks a show.
Rebel talks a lot about self-love and being unique, but that doesn't ring true. She only demonstrates that she is obsessed with the superficial: being famous, being deemed 'important,' being accepted, being praised, being rich, having nice things, and going on expensive trips.
Do we need pages and pages about her birthday on a private island (in 2021, when most people were still dealing with covid)? But she needs you to know that it was the same island where Kim Kardashian had her birthday. She needs you to know that family and friends spent the week celebrating her.
Speaking of Kim Kardashian, the amount of name-dropping in this book is staggering and usually wholly unnecessary. It just felt so... tacky.
The Ugly:
I must point out the hypocrisy that slapped me in the face. Rebel complains about male executives commenting that they would "bang" an attractive woman who walks by. Then, she turns around and talks about how she wanted to lick Brad Pitt's face when he was sitting next to her in a work meeting. Later in the book, again referencing Brad Pitt, she mentions that he made her "a little more than wet in my Spanx". How about when she jokes about writing sketches requiring Channing Tatum to grab her breast?
In summary, I came into this as a fan, and I am walking away disappointed. I hope Rebel realizes there is more to life than chasing happiness and self-worship. There is more to life than Instagram likes and $25,000 lamps for a baby nursery.
May 5, 2024
Get ready for a dose of Rebel Wilson realness! If you've ever followed her, you know she's as upfront as it gets, and this book is no exception.
In "Rebel Rising" she spills all the tea about her battle with the scale, the tough choices she had to make between Hollywood glam and shedding pounds, and so much more.
Let me tell you, the sacrifices she's made are no joke. It's like peeking behind the curtain into the life of a superstar and seeing the struggles they face when the cameras aren't rolling. So, if you're up for a candid and inspiring read, grab this book and dive into Rebel's world—you won't regret it!
In "Rebel Rising" she spills all the tea about her battle with the scale, the tough choices she had to make between Hollywood glam and shedding pounds, and so much more.
Let me tell you, the sacrifices she's made are no joke. It's like peeking behind the curtain into the life of a superstar and seeing the struggles they face when the cameras aren't rolling. So, if you're up for a candid and inspiring read, grab this book and dive into Rebel's world—you won't regret it!
May 9, 2024
This morning while perusing Reddit like I do I came across a post talking about how Rebel Wilson basically lost money doing Bridesmaids because she only made $3,500, plus she had to pay agent/manager/taxes, plus more to be in the union/SAG (are those the same thing?), AND bought her own dress for the premier. And being that Reddit is the dumpster fire that it is the whole thing was steeped in a “poooooooor Rebel” tone that took others who had actually listened to the interview rather than simply reposting a click-bait article to explain that REBEL wasn’t bitching and whining – she was simply pointing out that the return on that investment ended up being what got her discovered, turned into a $10M per movie going rate, jumpstarted her ability to provide for herself, her family, develop her own television series, become a producer, etc., etc., etc. NEVER CHANGE YOU REDDIT DE LU LUS!
So anyway, what better time to puke up a review than now. This was my latest “walk ‘n talk” and while I’m nowhere near what you would call a Rebel Wilson superfan (I did not even know she had a child or anything about her sexuality), I absolutely was one of the billions of people who fell in love with . . . .
But even more than that? Isn’t It Romantic (which probably got panned by every reviewer in the universe) is a movie I have watched eleventy trillion times over. First, I love Rebel’s “work husband” Adam Devine and their obvious chemistry on set together, but more importantly I loooooooove the theme that everyone is worthy of love, but most importantly you have to be able to love yourself. And also?????
*arooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooga!!!
This maybe wasn’t the most fascinating memoir I’ve listened to – I mean the big “shocker” that was the headlines pre-release date was that Sascha Baron Cohen – a man who has made an entire career out of being shockingly offensive – was, in fact, shockingly offensive in real life . . .
Wow! What a reveal!
But the parts about being okay with your body up to a point where you reach a certain age and start thinking about potential health concerns that come with aging or the inability to get pregnant or carry a baby were so relatable. Also, that women in general (and famous women even more so) are in a damned if they do damned if they don’t situation no matter WHAT they look like, getting scrutinized both for being fat or for trying to lose weight. And the absolute best was explaining the basics of long-term sustainability when it comes to losing weight. Explaining that diets and fads may work for the short-term, but until you come to terms with changing your lifestyle, calories in/calories out and deficits the weight probably won’t stay off forever. For a person listening to this while going on my 7 mile hike up hills and more hills to become a more physically fit version of myself this was music to my ears.
I’d give this one 3.5 Stars.
So anyway, what better time to puke up a review than now. This was my latest “walk ‘n talk” and while I’m nowhere near what you would call a Rebel Wilson superfan (I did not even know she had a child or anything about her sexuality), I absolutely was one of the billions of people who fell in love with . . . .
But even more than that? Isn’t It Romantic (which probably got panned by every reviewer in the universe) is a movie I have watched eleventy trillion times over. First, I love Rebel’s “work husband” Adam Devine and their obvious chemistry on set together, but more importantly I loooooooove the theme that everyone is worthy of love, but most importantly you have to be able to love yourself. And also?????
*arooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooga!!!
This maybe wasn’t the most fascinating memoir I’ve listened to – I mean the big “shocker” that was the headlines pre-release date was that Sascha Baron Cohen – a man who has made an entire career out of being shockingly offensive – was, in fact, shockingly offensive in real life . . .
Wow! What a reveal!
But the parts about being okay with your body up to a point where you reach a certain age and start thinking about potential health concerns that come with aging or the inability to get pregnant or carry a baby were so relatable. Also, that women in general (and famous women even more so) are in a damned if they do damned if they don’t situation no matter WHAT they look like, getting scrutinized both for being fat or for trying to lose weight. And the absolute best was explaining the basics of long-term sustainability when it comes to losing weight. Explaining that diets and fads may work for the short-term, but until you come to terms with changing your lifestyle, calories in/calories out and deficits the weight probably won’t stay off forever. For a person listening to this while going on my 7 mile hike up hills and more hills to become a more physically fit version of myself this was music to my ears.
I’d give this one 3.5 Stars.
April 20, 2024
Maybe not everyone needs a memoir 😬
June 27, 2024
Profoundly unfunny and surprisingly uninteresting.
I had high expectations for Rebel Rising by Rebel Wilson. First of all, it's Pride month, and I wanted to support a queer actress (YAS) and hear more about her coming out story. I figured it would be funny and charming, and an entertaining listen. Alas, it didn't pan out quite the way I had hoped.
My biggest take away is that the story is highly tone deaf, bordering on off-putting. She talks a lot about her wealth in the later half of the book, and casually mentions colonics and concierge doctors and private Disney privileges like it's barely a thought. I don't mind her being rich, but it just felt very unrelatable and braggy, and this is coming from someone who is pretty well off herself.
In addition, she read the book in a really odd way. It was like she was reading everything for the first time. It was stilted and uncomfortable, which I find to be rare in memoirs, especially from actresses. It was also just... boring. And unfunny. The pacing was all off. To make a less than exciting childhood and adulthood exciting can be done, but you need to be a great writer to pull it off. This wasn't it.
Highly disappointing.
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I had high expectations for Rebel Rising by Rebel Wilson. First of all, it's Pride month, and I wanted to support a queer actress (YAS) and hear more about her coming out story. I figured it would be funny and charming, and an entertaining listen. Alas, it didn't pan out quite the way I had hoped.
My biggest take away is that the story is highly tone deaf, bordering on off-putting. She talks a lot about her wealth in the later half of the book, and casually mentions colonics and concierge doctors and private Disney privileges like it's barely a thought. I don't mind her being rich, but it just felt very unrelatable and braggy, and this is coming from someone who is pretty well off herself.
In addition, she read the book in a really odd way. It was like she was reading everything for the first time. It was stilted and uncomfortable, which I find to be rare in memoirs, especially from actresses. It was also just... boring. And unfunny. The pacing was all off. To make a less than exciting childhood and adulthood exciting can be done, but you need to be a great writer to pull it off. This wasn't it.
Highly disappointing.
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July 2, 2024
3 Stars
I was really looking forward to reading Rebel Wilson’s memoir, but it ultimately left me with mixed feelings, which isn’t exactly the vibe I was going for.
A large part of me respects the hell out of this woman, for everything she’s accomplished as a nonconforming Hollywood star. Her brand of humour may miss the mark with me 8 times out of 10, but I’ll admit that I have a surge of pride—as a fellow Aussie and as a plus size woman—every time I see Wilson has a new production she’s acting in/written/produced/directed on a big global scale.
For the most part, this was easy, stimulating reading, filled with personalised Hollywood titbits and the kind of ambition and drive for success I’ve never felt for anything in my life the way she felt about performing, which in itself was admirable. I also respected how vulnerable she got with some of the more personal topics, such as her complex family dynamics, her lifelong weight struggles, her fertility issues, her sexuality, and her romantic relationships as a late bloomer.
On the flip side of all of this, the overall tone felt off for me. There was something in the telling of her experiences—good and bad and everything in between—that felt a bit conceited, a bit braggadocious, and not just during the fame years.
Even from very early on, when recounting memories and scenes from her childhood, Wilson would tell a story and I got the impression I was meant to agree with her take, or think she was clever, when instead, I found myself siding (if it was a me vs. them situation) with the other person involved. There was definitely a precociousness to her youthful antics, that morphed into a bit of a “how good/smart/talented am I?” vibe that carried her into her adulthood.
That’s fine, of course. I’m sure if I read more celebrity memoirs, I’d feel this way about a lot of them—I’m sure the ego comes with the personality type of the famous, more often than not—but for some reason, I was a bit turned off by the impression I was left with in this particular instance. Maybe because I wasn’t actually expecting it from Wilson? I’m not entirely sure, but either way, I came away not as impressed as I initially expected to be by this book.
I was really looking forward to reading Rebel Wilson’s memoir, but it ultimately left me with mixed feelings, which isn’t exactly the vibe I was going for.
A large part of me respects the hell out of this woman, for everything she’s accomplished as a nonconforming Hollywood star. Her brand of humour may miss the mark with me 8 times out of 10, but I’ll admit that I have a surge of pride—as a fellow Aussie and as a plus size woman—every time I see Wilson has a new production she’s acting in/written/produced/directed on a big global scale.
For the most part, this was easy, stimulating reading, filled with personalised Hollywood titbits and the kind of ambition and drive for success I’ve never felt for anything in my life the way she felt about performing, which in itself was admirable. I also respected how vulnerable she got with some of the more personal topics, such as her complex family dynamics, her lifelong weight struggles, her fertility issues, her sexuality, and her romantic relationships as a late bloomer.
On the flip side of all of this, the overall tone felt off for me. There was something in the telling of her experiences—good and bad and everything in between—that felt a bit conceited, a bit braggadocious, and not just during the fame years.
Even from very early on, when recounting memories and scenes from her childhood, Wilson would tell a story and I got the impression I was meant to agree with her take, or think she was clever, when instead, I found myself siding (if it was a me vs. them situation) with the other person involved. There was definitely a precociousness to her youthful antics, that morphed into a bit of a “how good/smart/talented am I?” vibe that carried her into her adulthood.
That’s fine, of course. I’m sure if I read more celebrity memoirs, I’d feel this way about a lot of them—I’m sure the ego comes with the personality type of the famous, more often than not—but for some reason, I was a bit turned off by the impression I was left with in this particular instance. Maybe because I wasn’t actually expecting it from Wilson? I’m not entirely sure, but either way, I came away not as impressed as I initially expected to be by this book.
April 5, 2024
I'm a fan of celebrity memoirs more than I am necessarily a fan of RW. This book started off slow with her talking about her childhood and although I was interested I was still a bit bored. However by the time we get into her career, romance and eventually welcoming a child I was hooked. A beautiful memoir
May 4, 2024
I’ve never been the biggest Rebel Wilson fan in the world, I do think she is a good comedic actress and have enjoyed her performances in movies like the Pitch Perfect trilogy and (her breakout role) Bridemaids. Her writing style is very upbeat and personable, with her signature humorous touches.
Rebel Rising gave me a newfound appreciation for Rebel, I did initially preorder this because I was intrigued by her experience working with Sasha Baron-Cohen, who she describes as an “asshole”. When I finally got to that part, the main incident with him was completely [redacted]! Apparently it isn’t in the books that were published in America so hopefully I can find the extracts online. I’m guessing she was threatened with lawyers…!
I especially enjoyed the chapter where she details a legal battle with Australian tabloids for publishing lies about her during the height of her success with the Pitch Perfect 2 movie. It’s nice to hear of somebody standing up for themselves and winning a lawsuit against a huge corporation.
Also, Rebel and Ramona’s relationship is so cute omg, always heartwarming to see some sapphic representation!
4 Stars
Rebel Rising gave me a newfound appreciation for Rebel, I did initially preorder this because I was intrigued by her experience working with Sasha Baron-Cohen, who she describes as an “asshole”. When I finally got to that part, the main incident with him was completely [redacted]! Apparently it isn’t in the books that were published in America so hopefully I can find the extracts online. I’m guessing she was threatened with lawyers…!
I especially enjoyed the chapter where she details a legal battle with Australian tabloids for publishing lies about her during the height of her success with the Pitch Perfect 2 movie. It’s nice to hear of somebody standing up for themselves and winning a lawsuit against a huge corporation.
Also, Rebel and Ramona’s relationship is so cute omg, always heartwarming to see some sapphic representation!
4 Stars
June 15, 2024
I know I’m reading a 5 star book when I start to dread finishing it. Reading Rebel’s story was like sitting down with a best friend over a wine and chatting about life. In this case, it was Rebel’s whole life so far, and all of the triumphs and struggles in between. There is no one who deserves their happy ending more than Rebel, and I appreciated her realness and rawness in every single chapter.
The fact that she left the chapter in where she details the disgusting misogyny and abuse by Sacha Baron Cohen but just blacked out the words - (as she was prevented by her publisher from revealing the details in the Australian version of the book) made me really proud - as Rebel is nothing if not brutally honest and I have no doubt SBC did all the things and more that she accused him of. Leaving that chapter in was extremely powerful and a huge f you to SBC and toxic males everywhere. Highly recommend this one for fans of Rebel, or for anyone wanting to read a brutally honest and candid reflection on an extraordinary life so far.
The fact that she left the chapter in where she details the disgusting misogyny and abuse by Sacha Baron Cohen but just blacked out the words - (as she was prevented by her publisher from revealing the details in the Australian version of the book) made me really proud - as Rebel is nothing if not brutally honest and I have no doubt SBC did all the things and more that she accused him of. Leaving that chapter in was extremely powerful and a huge f you to SBC and toxic males everywhere. Highly recommend this one for fans of Rebel, or for anyone wanting to read a brutally honest and candid reflection on an extraordinary life so far.
February 25, 2025
I love Rebel's sense of humour. It really shines through in this book. I laughed , I cried, and I smiled with your journey throughout life. You are a genuine person and this book shows it. You were honest and open about things and it was a pleasure to read your book.
Read
October 1, 2024I absolutely loved this; I felt like I had Rebel in the room with me or driving in the car while listening to the audiobook. It's exactly what you'd expect from a celebrity memoir, injected with Rebel's hilarious personality and Hollywood stories. I especially loved hearing about her VIP experiences at Disneyland or award shows/parties, as well as her experience staring and producing in so many movies I've loved. The UK edition does have a chunk redacted during a chapter about Sacha Baron Cohen, which is a shame. She also heavily mentions her weight (including numbers at the beginning of most chapters), which is relevant but often felt excessive. Overall, it is a fun book, one of my favourites from the celebrity memoirs I've listened to in audiobook form.
June 24, 2024
Hearing Rebel’s stories made me realize how little I know about her. I didn’t know she went to law school in Australia, came from a big family, and is now a mom. I have enjoyed watching comedies she starred in, most notably, Pitch Perfect. I like that she chooses a theme for each year rather than New Year’s resolutions. This is something I’ve gotten in the habit of doing just recently in the past couple years.
There is a little humor and some gossip in Rebel Rising though the book seemed like a collection of anecdotes much more than a memoir.
Thank you to Simon Books for the gifted print copy.
There is a little humor and some gossip in Rebel Rising though the book seemed like a collection of anecdotes much more than a memoir.
Thank you to Simon Books for the gifted print copy.
Read
March 25, 2024Oh, Borat is done for.
“I wrote about an a–hole in my book. Now, said a–hole is trying to threaten me. But the book WILL come out, and you will all know the truth.” — Rebel Wilson
“I wrote about an a–hole in my book. Now, said a–hole is trying to threaten me. But the book WILL come out, and you will all know the truth.” — Rebel Wilson
Read
June 10, 2024I don't rate biographies and memoirs
Rebel Wilson presents a frank and honest look at her childhood in Australia, and her rise to fame. Although not particularly well versed in Rebel's films, I've seen her in a few movies and was intrigued enough when the initial discourse arose surrounding a certain film actor she mentions to pick this up. I'm glad I did because Rebel doesn't shy away from showing the reader every side of her life. I really liked the chapters on her time spent in South Africa as an exchange student (even though they also gave me acute anxiety, listening to her talk about sleeping under a car etc), contracting malaria and her lucid dream that kickstarts her ambitions in acting. She doesn't take herself seriously, yet pours her heart into each sentence. Her frank discussions about her father and his death were particularly moving and you can hear her getting emotional as she speaks about their tumultuous relationship.
If you have an interest in Rebel you'll enjoy this, but I think if you want a different perspective on Hollywood and taking up space in a notoriously fat phobic environment, you'll enjoy this too.
Rebel Wilson presents a frank and honest look at her childhood in Australia, and her rise to fame. Although not particularly well versed in Rebel's films, I've seen her in a few movies and was intrigued enough when the initial discourse arose surrounding a certain film actor she mentions to pick this up. I'm glad I did because Rebel doesn't shy away from showing the reader every side of her life. I really liked the chapters on her time spent in South Africa as an exchange student (even though they also gave me acute anxiety, listening to her talk about sleeping under a car etc), contracting malaria and her lucid dream that kickstarts her ambitions in acting. She doesn't take herself seriously, yet pours her heart into each sentence. Her frank discussions about her father and his death were particularly moving and you can hear her getting emotional as she speaks about their tumultuous relationship.
If you have an interest in Rebel you'll enjoy this, but I think if you want a different perspective on Hollywood and taking up space in a notoriously fat phobic environment, you'll enjoy this too.
April 13, 2024
One of the most well written celebrity memoirs I have read. I always just thought of Rebel as this hilarious actress, so when I saw she had written a memoir, I knew I needed to learn more about this funny gal. And what an interesting life she has had. I learned so much about her childhood and the demands of Hollywood life. Rebel just comes off as this intelligent, sweet and fun person, who you wish could be your best friend in real life.
I am sure it is hard as a celebrity to put it ALL out there, but this book definitely gave me the opportunity to look at her as more than a comedian. She’s also a lawyer, humanitarian, writer, producer, actress and all around good person. I have so much more respect for her and can’t wait to watch her next production. Go Rebel!!!
I am sure it is hard as a celebrity to put it ALL out there, but this book definitely gave me the opportunity to look at her as more than a comedian. She’s also a lawyer, humanitarian, writer, producer, actress and all around good person. I have so much more respect for her and can’t wait to watch her next production. Go Rebel!!!
April 4, 2024
I really enjoyed this. I think Rebel Wilson is hilarious and listening to her memoir made me love her even more. As I listened to stories of her childhood and as she grew into an adult, I felt like I was spending the last couple days with my best friend, hearing about things that are happening in her life! It was enjoyable and heartfelt and an all-around very pleasant book.
April 4, 2024
funny, heartwarming, and sad all at once. 10/10 would recommend!
June 18, 2024
I really wanted to love this because I’m a Rebel fan but I’d rate this a 3.5 at most. The negatives: The book is ALL over the place, she jumps back and forth between years and it gets confusing. The amount of name drops is absolutely ridiculous and totally unnecessary. We get it, you’re a celebrity and know a lot of other celebrities. She also talks about all the free stuff she gets and uses actual dollars. I appreciate the transparency but it’s a bit much. The book reads as quite self centred and bragging. You would think that since she came from such humble beginnings she’d be a bit more discreet but it’s more like, “hey, I made it and look how many millions I have now! I get VIP everything”.
The positives: I enjoyed hearing about her eating and weight loss struggles as I think that’s something most women can relate to. I also enjoyed hearing her perspective on the industry and how she broke into it. Her work ethic is impressive and she deserves all the success she’s achieved. She’s extremely honest in this book, which I appreciate, but there are definitely some TMI moments (no one needed to know you shat in someone’s lawn). Lastly, I enjoyed listening to the audiobook in her voice, it felt like listening to a friend talk.
The positives: I enjoyed hearing about her eating and weight loss struggles as I think that’s something most women can relate to. I also enjoyed hearing her perspective on the industry and how she broke into it. Her work ethic is impressive and she deserves all the success she’s achieved. She’s extremely honest in this book, which I appreciate, but there are definitely some TMI moments (no one needed to know you shat in someone’s lawn). Lastly, I enjoyed listening to the audiobook in her voice, it felt like listening to a friend talk.
June 16, 2024
In the immortal words of Trinity the Tuck, ‘Where are the jokes?’
January 7, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. I listened to it on audio and it was read by the author. I think she did such a great job. It was funny and heartfelt. I am glad that I know a bit more about Rebel now.
April 13, 2024
2.5 ⭐️ I’ve enjoyed Rebel Wilson in all her movies and can relate to her fertility challenges, so I thought this would be interesting. I listened to this book and it just didn’t grab my attention as much as I hoped. I also felt annoyed from what felt like emotional whiplash… “Poor me, so much sad stuff has happened to me” then right to “I’m famous and have done all these cool things and everyone loves me.”
April 12, 2024
A moving and deeply personal memoir about the star's rise to fame, struggles with weight, relationships, a PCOS diagnosis and her journey to motherhood through the help of a surrogate in her 40s. I loved hearing Rebel voice her own story on the audio book and learned a lot about her as a person I found surprising. Highly recommended for fans of actors like Amy Schumer.
May 4, 2024
Maybe it's because I'm new to the world of audiobooks so I found it hard to listen to (or maybe it's because she bragged about locking her English teacher in a closet!!!!), but I didn't love this. The beginning draaaagged & she came off a lot cockier than I expected!
November 3, 2024
Loved listening to Rebel narrate her memoir. I have always loved her and getting to listen to a vulnerable side of her was beautiful. Highly recommend!
April 5, 2024
Fat Amy is the character Rebel is often confused with I think, a dumb blond with a killer confidence (or just too stupid to know better?) But the real Rebel is nothing like Fat Amy and she starts off by taking off that mask and showing us the insecurities around not feeling worthy of love and the same that comes with the body shaming society. This is such a vulnerable thing to show and it’s very generous of her to share these intimate feelings with a society so quick to judge. Thank you for this Rebel, truly. <3 I’ve never really managed to admit some of these feelings to myself, let alone the world.
We get a chapter of her going to the fertility doctor wanting to get pregnant even though she’s single. Aaaand then we’re suddenly thrown into a Bridget Jones diary situation dating back to her childhood. These diaries are what they can base celebrity sitcoms on, like “Everybody hates Chris” or a “Young Rock” situation. But a celebrity memoir? Are anyone’s younger school days really that interesting? We get 16 chapters out of 32 of young Rebel pre-fame and only in chapter 19 are we in the era of “Bridesmaids” which I would say was her first big Hollywood break before Pitch Perfect catapulted her into a household name.
And this is what we came for - the behind the scenes, the story behind the story we know and have followed, her career. Rebel feels like one of us, a completely unserious, enjoyer of life and funny observer of the Hollywood elite! She’s become a Hollywood elite herself, but that doesn’t seem to phase her too much. We get what we came for, the inside scoop. We even get a redemption story of her law degree working for her under negotiations and the karma of the evil borat. But she’s not trying to cancel anybody, a stance I appreciate these days that people are so quick to cut people off.
And like always, I want to recommend the audio. Rebels voice is one you don’t want to miss! It’s just funnier the way she delivers it!
Edit: man she is getting hate for the Adele comment! It was barely a sidenote, I didn't even mention it in my original review. This felt like an honest experience, one that she seems a bit confused about herself so she threw it in the air to see where it landed. I guess it didn't land well with die hard Adele fans, but I don't see any reason for the hate.
We get a chapter of her going to the fertility doctor wanting to get pregnant even though she’s single. Aaaand then we’re suddenly thrown into a Bridget Jones diary situation dating back to her childhood. These diaries are what they can base celebrity sitcoms on, like “Everybody hates Chris” or a “Young Rock” situation. But a celebrity memoir? Are anyone’s younger school days really that interesting? We get 16 chapters out of 32 of young Rebel pre-fame and only in chapter 19 are we in the era of “Bridesmaids” which I would say was her first big Hollywood break before Pitch Perfect catapulted her into a household name.
And this is what we came for - the behind the scenes, the story behind the story we know and have followed, her career. Rebel feels like one of us, a completely unserious, enjoyer of life and funny observer of the Hollywood elite! She’s become a Hollywood elite herself, but that doesn’t seem to phase her too much. We get what we came for, the inside scoop. We even get a redemption story of her law degree working for her under negotiations and the karma of the evil borat. But she’s not trying to cancel anybody, a stance I appreciate these days that people are so quick to cut people off.
And like always, I want to recommend the audio. Rebels voice is one you don’t want to miss! It’s just funnier the way she delivers it!
Edit: man she is getting hate for the Adele comment! It was barely a sidenote, I didn't even mention it in my original review. This felt like an honest experience, one that she seems a bit confused about herself so she threw it in the air to see where it landed. I guess it didn't land well with die hard Adele fans, but I don't see any reason for the hate.
June 24, 2024
I remember watching a young Rebel Wilson in Fat Pizza, a super popular TV show when I was in school. I think she is a great comedic actress and I've enjoyed her performances in Pitch Perfect and Isn't It Romantic. Her memoir was a fascinating read, and I enjoyed her writing style, which is upbeat and personable with lots of humour.
I am definitely more in awe of Rebel Wilson after reading this memoir, as I loved her backstory and experiences growing up. The one thing that irked me however was the contradictory aspect to her emphasis on self-love and being unique. In the later stages of this book, she often focuses on fame, importance, acceptance, praise, wealth, luxury, and extravagant trips. For example, she dedicates numerous pages to her birthday celebration on a private island in 2021, highlighting its similarity to Kim Kardashian’s birthday venue even though the majority of us where dealing with covid and its ramifications. It just felt so gross and self-absorbed, but she does mention that this is an important aspect of all celebrities that make 'it'.
In saying all this, I appreciated Rebel's honesty and the engaging narration of the audiobook. Her recounting of her experiences with eating and weight loss struggles was relatable and insightful. Her perspective on the industry and her impressive work ethic were highlights. Despite some TMI moments, her candidness made the book feel like listening to a friend talk. Overall, Rebel Rising is an entertaining read, and I highly recommend listening to the audiobook to hear it in her own words.
I am definitely more in awe of Rebel Wilson after reading this memoir, as I loved her backstory and experiences growing up. The one thing that irked me however was the contradictory aspect to her emphasis on self-love and being unique. In the later stages of this book, she often focuses on fame, importance, acceptance, praise, wealth, luxury, and extravagant trips. For example, she dedicates numerous pages to her birthday celebration on a private island in 2021, highlighting its similarity to Kim Kardashian’s birthday venue even though the majority of us where dealing with covid and its ramifications. It just felt so gross and self-absorbed, but she does mention that this is an important aspect of all celebrities that make 'it'.
In saying all this, I appreciated Rebel's honesty and the engaging narration of the audiobook. Her recounting of her experiences with eating and weight loss struggles was relatable and insightful. Her perspective on the industry and her impressive work ethic were highlights. Despite some TMI moments, her candidness made the book feel like listening to a friend talk. Overall, Rebel Rising is an entertaining read, and I highly recommend listening to the audiobook to hear it in her own words.
June 8, 2024
I really struggled to enjoy this one. Her story has so many interesting pieces, but the pacing choices she made really bogged it down. It was a much slower pace and had a lot less wit than I was expecting from her. She’s had a very fascinating life and a very unique Hollywood experience, but her memoir fell very flat. I was bummed.
April 11, 2024
The best celebrity memoir I have read yet. This is the first time I have heard a celebrity give voice to the challenges of emotional eating.
I have watched Rebel Wilson in a couple of films. I have watched her in interviews. I always thought she was funny. Obviously, I knew she had issues with her weight, but to read how she handled stress and emotional issues by using food as a coping mechanism, made my heart weep.
I read this memoir understanding exactly what her process of the mind and heart goes through every day, hour, minute as women.
Her story segues from childhood to adult. She shares so much with her readers. Vulnerable, funny, forthcoming and raw. Read it now!
I have watched Rebel Wilson in a couple of films. I have watched her in interviews. I always thought she was funny. Obviously, I knew she had issues with her weight, but to read how she handled stress and emotional issues by using food as a coping mechanism, made my heart weep.
I read this memoir understanding exactly what her process of the mind and heart goes through every day, hour, minute as women.
Her story segues from childhood to adult. She shares so much with her readers. Vulnerable, funny, forthcoming and raw. Read it now!
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