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Ernie: The Autobiography
We wept at his Oscar-winning role in Marty . . .we gasped when he took on Frank Sinatra in From Here to Eternity . . .we were riveted by his compelling performances in The Dirty Dozen, Bad Day at Black Rock, and Ice Station Zebra . . .and we laughed at his television sitcom McHale's Navy. We loved all of Ernest Borgnine's many portrayals, but what did we know about the man behind the famous roles? Now for the first time, he tells us in his own words the fascinating story of his life in this witty, candid, and revealing memoir.
For more than fifty years, Ernest--or "Ernie" as he's known to his friends--has been one of the most recognized, celebrated stars in Hollywood as well as a respected, talented actor, and a living legend. Stretching from his childhood as the son of Italian immigrants to a spectacular career that is still thriving in his 91st year, from the early days of live TV to the voiceovers for The Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants, Ernie tells of the trials and tribulations on his road to fame, the friendships he shared with some of the silver screen's biggest stars, and the glamorous leading ladies he loved.
Acclaimed for his ability to play sensitive and tough-guy roles equally well, he was also famous for squaring off against some of Hollywood's most formidable actresses--including Bette Davis in A Catered Affair and Joan Crawford in Johnny Guitar. Recalling his experiences starring in classic movies such as The Poseidon Adventure, The Wild Bunch, and Escape from New York, he reveals personal insights and irresistible stories about cinema's greatest icons--including Spencer Tracy, James Stewart, Kirk Douglas, Montgomery Clift, Gary Cooper, Janet Leigh, Raquel Welch, Gene Hackman, Rock Hudson, Sammy Davis, Jr., Tony Curtis, Alan Ladd, Glenn Ford, and Burt Lancaster. And with characteristic frankness, he also talks about his off-screen loves and passions.
A must for every film buff, An Autobiography is a fascinating memoir--filled with secrets, well-remembered details, and never-before-told stories--of a star who has thrived in the changing world of Hollywood for more than half a century, and endeared himself to legions of fans everywhere.
"(Borgnine's) anecdotes are gleefully self-deprecating. . .he comes off as the kind of guy you'd like to have a beer with." -- NY Post
"With astute observations on the Hollywood hierarchy and tales about everyone from Lee Marvin and Steve McQueen to Bette Davis and Kim Novak, (Borgnine) writes with an unassuming, no-nonsense tone. His love of filmmaking and his respect for his fellow actors permeates the pages of this engaging and satisfying memoir." -- Publishers Weekly
"Modest and sweet. . .nicely boiled. Borgnine neither lashes out nor pulls punches." -- Entertainment Weekly
"Now for the first time, (Borgnine) tells us in his own words the fascinating story of his life in this witty, candid, and revealing memoir. A must for every film buff. Fascinating. . .filled with secrets, well-remembered details, and never-before-told stories--of a star who has thrived in the changing world of Hollywood for more than half a century, and endeared himself to legions of fans everywhere." --Turner Classic Movies, TCM.com
". . .a satisfying detailed account of a decades-long career that also included memorable roles in durable blockbusters like The Wild Bunch and The Poseidon Adventure. He comes across as an unspoiled, nice guy who enjoyed his success. . .One of the finest unghosted Hollywood autobiographies." --ALA Booklist
"A super read. . . The Autobiography by Ernest Borgnine is as nifty as he is." --Cindy Adams, NY Post
For more than fifty years, Ernest--or "Ernie" as he's known to his friends--has been one of the most recognized, celebrated stars in Hollywood as well as a respected, talented actor, and a living legend. Stretching from his childhood as the son of Italian immigrants to a spectacular career that is still thriving in his 91st year, from the early days of live TV to the voiceovers for The Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants, Ernie tells of the trials and tribulations on his road to fame, the friendships he shared with some of the silver screen's biggest stars, and the glamorous leading ladies he loved.
Acclaimed for his ability to play sensitive and tough-guy roles equally well, he was also famous for squaring off against some of Hollywood's most formidable actresses--including Bette Davis in A Catered Affair and Joan Crawford in Johnny Guitar. Recalling his experiences starring in classic movies such as The Poseidon Adventure, The Wild Bunch, and Escape from New York, he reveals personal insights and irresistible stories about cinema's greatest icons--including Spencer Tracy, James Stewart, Kirk Douglas, Montgomery Clift, Gary Cooper, Janet Leigh, Raquel Welch, Gene Hackman, Rock Hudson, Sammy Davis, Jr., Tony Curtis, Alan Ladd, Glenn Ford, and Burt Lancaster. And with characteristic frankness, he also talks about his off-screen loves and passions.
A must for every film buff, An Autobiography is a fascinating memoir--filled with secrets, well-remembered details, and never-before-told stories--of a star who has thrived in the changing world of Hollywood for more than half a century, and endeared himself to legions of fans everywhere.
"(Borgnine's) anecdotes are gleefully self-deprecating. . .he comes off as the kind of guy you'd like to have a beer with." -- NY Post
"With astute observations on the Hollywood hierarchy and tales about everyone from Lee Marvin and Steve McQueen to Bette Davis and Kim Novak, (Borgnine) writes with an unassuming, no-nonsense tone. His love of filmmaking and his respect for his fellow actors permeates the pages of this engaging and satisfying memoir." -- Publishers Weekly
"Modest and sweet. . .nicely boiled. Borgnine neither lashes out nor pulls punches." -- Entertainment Weekly
"Now for the first time, (Borgnine) tells us in his own words the fascinating story of his life in this witty, candid, and revealing memoir. A must for every film buff. Fascinating. . .filled with secrets, well-remembered details, and never-before-told stories--of a star who has thrived in the changing world of Hollywood for more than half a century, and endeared himself to legions of fans everywhere." --Turner Classic Movies, TCM.com
". . .a satisfying detailed account of a decades-long career that also included memorable roles in durable blockbusters like The Wild Bunch and The Poseidon Adventure. He comes across as an unspoiled, nice guy who enjoyed his success. . .One of the finest unghosted Hollywood autobiographies." --ALA Booklist
"A super read. . . The Autobiography by Ernest Borgnine is as nifty as he is." --Cindy Adams, NY Post
288 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2008
82 people are currently reading
364 people want to read
About the author
Ernest Borgnine
8 books2 followersErnest Borgnine was an Academy Award winning actor whose film and TV career spanned more than sixty years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
January 2, 2018
This was a very good book written by one of the hardest-working actors ever to grace the screen. In reading it, I got the sensation that he was personally relating his life's odyssey to me in simple but eloquent terms, more like a conversation between friends.
I had long been a Borgnine fan, so his military career and involvement in Freemasonry was no revelation. I have seen most of his movies, so there was little in the way of new information there. What impressed me most was the fact that he loved to work, and would tackle anything to keep busy. Even more impressive was the way that he managed to convey his feelings for other people in a gentlemanly way (remember gentlemen?). Mr Borgnine doesn't pretend that he liked everyone that he came in contact with, but he avoids the opportunity to really dump on anyone. On the other hand, he is generous with his praise of the people who have helped him or have meant something in his life. He doles out criticism with a spoon and pours praise from a bucket, so to speak.
As an example,he was married to the Mexican smokeshow Katy Jurado. This guy who is as homely as a hedge fence actually wed Katy Jurado! They had a somewhat tempestuous relationship culminating in divorce; this would have been a glorious opportunity to write up all the lurid details, maybe get a few more readers, but Borgnine sums it up as follows:
Katy was beautiful, but a tiger. We separated and reconciled before finally separating for good in 1961. Our divorce became final in 1964-we took three years to fight over alimony.
See what I mean? Temper is indicated by use of the word "tiger", but he really assesses no blame in spite of the fact that alimony negotiations requiring three years to resolve must have been accompanied by no small amount of acrimony.
In brief, I found this to be an entertaining read penned by a regular guy who had a strong work ethic and a positive outlook on life. Heck, if I had spent a few hours with Katy Jurado I'd be whistling too!
I had long been a Borgnine fan, so his military career and involvement in Freemasonry was no revelation. I have seen most of his movies, so there was little in the way of new information there. What impressed me most was the fact that he loved to work, and would tackle anything to keep busy. Even more impressive was the way that he managed to convey his feelings for other people in a gentlemanly way (remember gentlemen?). Mr Borgnine doesn't pretend that he liked everyone that he came in contact with, but he avoids the opportunity to really dump on anyone. On the other hand, he is generous with his praise of the people who have helped him or have meant something in his life. He doles out criticism with a spoon and pours praise from a bucket, so to speak.
As an example,he was married to the Mexican smokeshow Katy Jurado. This guy who is as homely as a hedge fence actually wed Katy Jurado! They had a somewhat tempestuous relationship culminating in divorce; this would have been a glorious opportunity to write up all the lurid details, maybe get a few more readers, but Borgnine sums it up as follows:
Katy was beautiful, but a tiger. We separated and reconciled before finally separating for good in 1961. Our divorce became final in 1964-we took three years to fight over alimony.
See what I mean? Temper is indicated by use of the word "tiger", but he really assesses no blame in spite of the fact that alimony negotiations requiring three years to resolve must have been accompanied by no small amount of acrimony.
In brief, I found this to be an entertaining read penned by a regular guy who had a strong work ethic and a positive outlook on life. Heck, if I had spent a few hours with Katy Jurado I'd be whistling too!
January 15, 2024
Jan 12, 1145am ~~ Review asap.
6pm ~~ I 'met' Ernest Borgnine way back when McHale's Navy was a new show on television. Later I saw him in various movies on cable, and I always felt there was some presence about him that drew the eye. He was not a handsome movie star idol type of guy, but any time I saw him on screen I watched him, no one else. He just had the touch, I guess.
He also had the touch with writing, because I found it very hard to put this book down. He told his story in such a down to earth way, straight from his heart, that I felt like I was chatting with my favorite uncle.
Of course I have looked up a few Borgnine movies at YouTube and will watch them hopefully soon, and I found a playlist of the entire McHale's Navy series as well. I have to confess I watched the first episode of that but was very uncomfortable with the terminology used to describe Japanese soldiers. Terms that were in common use during WWII and did not even register on my child's brain but my adult brain does not care to hear them. I will try another episode or two and see if I can overlook it, but I have my doubts about the great comedy being able to counteract those uncomfortable feelings.
I liked the chapters EB called Talkin' Pictures. He wrote anywhere from a few paragraphs to a few pages about each movie (or made for tv movie) he made and the memories involved with them. What I noticed is that he was telling his memories, and was very kind to fellow cast members while doing so. I never got the feeling that he was dishing dirt about anyone.
There is a nice batch of pictures here too, and the whole book was a treat to read.
6pm ~~ I 'met' Ernest Borgnine way back when McHale's Navy was a new show on television. Later I saw him in various movies on cable, and I always felt there was some presence about him that drew the eye. He was not a handsome movie star idol type of guy, but any time I saw him on screen I watched him, no one else. He just had the touch, I guess.
He also had the touch with writing, because I found it very hard to put this book down. He told his story in such a down to earth way, straight from his heart, that I felt like I was chatting with my favorite uncle.
Of course I have looked up a few Borgnine movies at YouTube and will watch them hopefully soon, and I found a playlist of the entire McHale's Navy series as well. I have to confess I watched the first episode of that but was very uncomfortable with the terminology used to describe Japanese soldiers. Terms that were in common use during WWII and did not even register on my child's brain but my adult brain does not care to hear them. I will try another episode or two and see if I can overlook it, but I have my doubts about the great comedy being able to counteract those uncomfortable feelings.
I liked the chapters EB called Talkin' Pictures. He wrote anywhere from a few paragraphs to a few pages about each movie (or made for tv movie) he made and the memories involved with them. What I noticed is that he was telling his memories, and was very kind to fellow cast members while doing so. I never got the feeling that he was dishing dirt about anyone.
There is a nice batch of pictures here too, and the whole book was a treat to read.
December 22, 2016
Read this book a few years ago, not quite sure how many years ago.
I was very lucky also to have a personally signed copy, which he signed when doing a book signing in London.
As a film buff and a lover of the great stars of the 30's , 40's and 50's also the 60's. The real legends.
He was one of the greats, a long career, a really nice friendly sincere man, and a great autobiography.
He also worked with many top stars, work in many great classic films, and I admired for his great character performances, and loved Marty.
A great book, a great actor.
I was very lucky also to have a personally signed copy, which he signed when doing a book signing in London.
As a film buff and a lover of the great stars of the 30's , 40's and 50's also the 60's. The real legends.
He was one of the greats, a long career, a really nice friendly sincere man, and a great autobiography.
He also worked with many top stars, work in many great classic films, and I admired for his great character performances, and loved Marty.
A great book, a great actor.
July 20, 2017
I cannot think of a better show business autobiography. The one that Jerry Lewis wrote about his years with Dean Martin was also exceptional. This one was different in that Ernest Borgnine comes across in his writing as an authentic, caring professional in every sense. This is borne out by delightful stories that have a deep element of truth without being gossipy or hurtful.
Imagine having an extended conversation with a good friend who has lived a fascinating life and who has known some justly famous people, and you will know Borgnine's writing style. I really, really, really didn't want this book to end so soon. I was enjoying myself so much.
Like that conversation with your friend, Borgnine gets to what you want to hear more about quickly and in an easy-to-follow format. For instance, he has chapters that mention high points of working on very famous motion pictures. In every case, he told an engaging story, yet always left me wanting more. For instance, in his discussion of filming ICE STATION ZEBRA, he mentions that he also worked with "that great British actor, Patrick McGoohan." I am a huge fan of McGoohan's work, but the actor was reticent to talk about it. What was it like working with him?
Ernest Borgnine was most well-known to my generation as the star of the television series, McHALE'S NAVY. We watched it every week. However, he did so many other wonderful portrayals. I'll never forget the power of his role of Shack, the determined (and viscous) railroad man in EMPEROR OF THE NORTH. Brilliant. Others justifiably remember him in MARTY, THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE or THE WILD BUNCH.
The writer doesn't only talk about his life and career. He also talks about how he approached acting. He is not trying to teach students, but there are some techniques to learn here.
Most of all, Borgnine role models the importance of treating others with respect. He was married four times, so I imagine that it would be easy to dish dirt from his perspective. He does nothing more than mention incidents that had to hurt with the wry distance of age.
At the very end of the book, he thanks the Reader for "stopping by." Pretty cool. I highly recommend this one.
Imagine having an extended conversation with a good friend who has lived a fascinating life and who has known some justly famous people, and you will know Borgnine's writing style. I really, really, really didn't want this book to end so soon. I was enjoying myself so much.
Like that conversation with your friend, Borgnine gets to what you want to hear more about quickly and in an easy-to-follow format. For instance, he has chapters that mention high points of working on very famous motion pictures. In every case, he told an engaging story, yet always left me wanting more. For instance, in his discussion of filming ICE STATION ZEBRA, he mentions that he also worked with "that great British actor, Patrick McGoohan." I am a huge fan of McGoohan's work, but the actor was reticent to talk about it. What was it like working with him?
Ernest Borgnine was most well-known to my generation as the star of the television series, McHALE'S NAVY. We watched it every week. However, he did so many other wonderful portrayals. I'll never forget the power of his role of Shack, the determined (and viscous) railroad man in EMPEROR OF THE NORTH. Brilliant. Others justifiably remember him in MARTY, THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE or THE WILD BUNCH.
The writer doesn't only talk about his life and career. He also talks about how he approached acting. He is not trying to teach students, but there are some techniques to learn here.
Most of all, Borgnine role models the importance of treating others with respect. He was married four times, so I imagine that it would be easy to dish dirt from his perspective. He does nothing more than mention incidents that had to hurt with the wry distance of age.
At the very end of the book, he thanks the Reader for "stopping by." Pretty cool. I highly recommend this one.
February 6, 2009
Ernie, at 92, is an old-fashioned guy. Manners. OG Catholic outta NY.
I never knew he was married to Ethel Merman and Katy Jurado.
His wife of 35 years, Tova, is beautiful. So was his sister when she was a young woman.
Never downbeat, or rude. Always a gentleman, Ernie was a fun, quick read.
I recommend it to film and television historians and all those who like reading the words of living legends.
I never knew he was married to Ethel Merman and Katy Jurado.
His wife of 35 years, Tova, is beautiful. So was his sister when she was a young woman.
Never downbeat, or rude. Always a gentleman, Ernie was a fun, quick read.
I recommend it to film and television historians and all those who like reading the words of living legends.
December 9, 2008
The rare diamonds in this book, mostly for the over-40 reader, are most evident in Chapter 9 where Borgnine describes his decision to become an actor. He is a great storyteller...
March 3, 2017
For people who are old movie buffs or just like the classic movies from back in the day, well this is a book for you. It tells the story of a hard working movie star, his ups and downs in life, his friendships he made along the way in his film career and the heartaches and disappointments of life.
Ernest Borgine or Ernie as he was better known has always been a favorite actor of mine. He did not have to have the leading role, be a good guy or the soave type in a movie but you ended up liking him all the same. In his book, he tells about his upbringing in Connecticut with his Italian parents. His rode to Broadway, his getting to Hollywood and enjoying all came his way in his many years of being an actor.
Ernest was not the smartest kid in class but he knew how to make people laugh. His mother always said make something of your talents. He listened and landed an acting job opposite the great stage actress Helen Hayes. Helen had such an impact on him, he made her God-mother to his first child, Nancee. Working on the stage a bit, Ernie got his way to Hollywood and did his first big role as Fatso Judson in the movie From Here to Eternity. He had such a hard time after that movie convicing people that him and Frank Sinatra were really the best of friends. In the movie he beats Frank up so bad that he dies. In the book, you find out that Ernie got so many death threats because of his acting on the screen. REMEMBER PEOPLE IT”S ONLY A MOVIE!
Of course after that, he did the movie Marty and won an Oscar. I love the movie, it’s short but tells so much. Ernie really knew how to give a great performance and he certainly in my mind deserved the Oscar. Going from being the soft hearted butcher in Marty to some really mean guys was just proving that Ernie had great talent. Though movies were not the only means Ernie had to make a living. T.V though played a big part in Ernie’s film career as well. He was on The Love Boat, Wagon Train, Little House on the Prairie, McHale’s Navy, Airwolf and yes even SpoongeBob Square Pants.
Though Ernie had a pretty good movie career sadly his love life was not the best. Married 5 times and having 3 children from those marriages had its ups and downs. Rhoda was Ernie’s first wife and he had his oldest daughter with her. Sadly it only lasted a few years. His third wife was none other than Ethel Merman. It only lasted a little bit and by the time the honeymoon was over, so was the marriage. She was jealous that her husband got all the attention and she was not in the limelight. Though his fifth and final wife Tova stayed by him from 1973 to his death in 2012.
A great book and Ernie tells so many great stories from his childhood up to the present day. Sadly, he is no long alive but thanks to TCM and movie, we can still see him on the big screen.
Ernest Borgine or Ernie as he was better known has always been a favorite actor of mine. He did not have to have the leading role, be a good guy or the soave type in a movie but you ended up liking him all the same. In his book, he tells about his upbringing in Connecticut with his Italian parents. His rode to Broadway, his getting to Hollywood and enjoying all came his way in his many years of being an actor.
Ernest was not the smartest kid in class but he knew how to make people laugh. His mother always said make something of your talents. He listened and landed an acting job opposite the great stage actress Helen Hayes. Helen had such an impact on him, he made her God-mother to his first child, Nancee. Working on the stage a bit, Ernie got his way to Hollywood and did his first big role as Fatso Judson in the movie From Here to Eternity. He had such a hard time after that movie convicing people that him and Frank Sinatra were really the best of friends. In the movie he beats Frank up so bad that he dies. In the book, you find out that Ernie got so many death threats because of his acting on the screen. REMEMBER PEOPLE IT”S ONLY A MOVIE!
Of course after that, he did the movie Marty and won an Oscar. I love the movie, it’s short but tells so much. Ernie really knew how to give a great performance and he certainly in my mind deserved the Oscar. Going from being the soft hearted butcher in Marty to some really mean guys was just proving that Ernie had great talent. Though movies were not the only means Ernie had to make a living. T.V though played a big part in Ernie’s film career as well. He was on The Love Boat, Wagon Train, Little House on the Prairie, McHale’s Navy, Airwolf and yes even SpoongeBob Square Pants.
Though Ernie had a pretty good movie career sadly his love life was not the best. Married 5 times and having 3 children from those marriages had its ups and downs. Rhoda was Ernie’s first wife and he had his oldest daughter with her. Sadly it only lasted a few years. His third wife was none other than Ethel Merman. It only lasted a little bit and by the time the honeymoon was over, so was the marriage. She was jealous that her husband got all the attention and she was not in the limelight. Though his fifth and final wife Tova stayed by him from 1973 to his death in 2012.
A great book and Ernie tells so many great stories from his childhood up to the present day. Sadly, he is no long alive but thanks to TCM and movie, we can still see him on the big screen.
March 3, 2011
This is a wonderful, wonderful autobiography — very easy and entertaining to read, the tone very conversational, as though the reader is sitting at Ernie's knee as he talks about his life. It's not bogged down with dry facts, with tons of names and dates, as I've seen in other biographies; there are plenty of well-known names mentioned, of course, but they're mentioned only when the people were a big part of the story being told. Also, the voice is very generous and warmhearted, as Ernie never seems to have a bad thing to say about anyone. You can tell that he genuinely likes people, and people genuinely like him.
I got to see this firsthand at the book signing where I purchased this book — yes, mine is an autographed copy — as he charmed the HUGE group of people that came to see him and a playing of his movie Marty. He told stories that made them laugh and smile and FEEL. Then, with great patience and good humor, he signed books for a great long line of people, long past what I myself could have endured, until the last few people got their chance to chat with him, pose with him for photos, and have their books signed. It took HOURS, and at his age, it was very impressive.
I learned that the book was done with Ernie being recorded as he talked, and later the recordings were transcribed, put together, and edited. This is why the book has the tone and voice that it does. The book is funny, sweet, poignant, and very interesting in terms of Hollywood history. At the end, there is no doubt in your mind why Ernie continues to work even to this day — he has a great work ethic, he gets along with everyone, and he's good at what he does. It's a feel-good book all the way, and it's great for reading out loud to someone you care about.
I got to see this firsthand at the book signing where I purchased this book — yes, mine is an autographed copy — as he charmed the HUGE group of people that came to see him and a playing of his movie Marty. He told stories that made them laugh and smile and FEEL. Then, with great patience and good humor, he signed books for a great long line of people, long past what I myself could have endured, until the last few people got their chance to chat with him, pose with him for photos, and have their books signed. It took HOURS, and at his age, it was very impressive.
I learned that the book was done with Ernie being recorded as he talked, and later the recordings were transcribed, put together, and edited. This is why the book has the tone and voice that it does. The book is funny, sweet, poignant, and very interesting in terms of Hollywood history. At the end, there is no doubt in your mind why Ernie continues to work even to this day — he has a great work ethic, he gets along with everyone, and he's good at what he does. It's a feel-good book all the way, and it's great for reading out loud to someone you care about.
December 26, 2014
The writing was very conversational. He is talking to us and he tells us some good stories. He seemed to be a very upbeat guy. For me, the message of the book is follow your dream. Skill and a bit of luck helps, but hard work and determination are your best keys to success.
May 9, 2012
I must admit my bias in rating this book a "5 star" as Ernest Borgnie is one of my favorite actors. "The Wild Bunch" star really laid it all out in this book. He's one of the good guys, but he also doesn't take any crap. The book not only gives a look into Ernie's life, but also some of the biggest stars in Hollywood for the last 60 years. He had and still has an incredible career, and for those with only a passing knowledge of his work, I think this book would still be a treat. If you love movies and actors, especially during hollywoods "golden age" of the 40's and 50's, you'll love this book.
February 11, 2019
You never know...
...who is going to write a compelling and interesting autobiography. After watching “Marty” recently, I became interested in Mr. Borgnine. I bought this book and devoured it in no time. A man who just wanted to keep his nuts warm is how he summed it up, and I agree with him. That's all anyone wants, right?
...who is going to write a compelling and interesting autobiography. After watching “Marty” recently, I became interested in Mr. Borgnine. I bought this book and devoured it in no time. A man who just wanted to keep his nuts warm is how he summed it up, and I agree with him. That's all anyone wants, right?
September 26, 2012
Ernest Borgnine's autobiography is a very worthwhile read. This guy outlived virtually every other actor of his generation (only Herbert Lom, Kirk Douglas and Eli Wallach could match Borgnine for sheer longevity). His story is remarkable and he tells it in a lovely straight-forward style, with honesty and perception. The first half of the book deals with his youth and his Navy career. The second half deals with his film work from the 1950s up to the present.
I expected to find the first half dull and the second half intriguing. I'm a film fan, and that was the reason I was initially attracted to the book. However, the first half is actually the best... Borgnine makes his childhood and his hair-raising days in the forces during WWII memorable reading indeed. His film anecdotes are variable - some are great (like his pieces on Marty, The Vikings, Suppose They Gave A War And Nobody Came) but others seem a bit brief and pointless. We'll be kind and call them "padding".
Overall, however, I thoroughly enjoyed reading the life story of this old pro. He sure as hell lived life the way he wanted to and on the whole he shares a lot of joyous stories here, as well as having many worthwhile opinions to impart.
I expected to find the first half dull and the second half intriguing. I'm a film fan, and that was the reason I was initially attracted to the book. However, the first half is actually the best... Borgnine makes his childhood and his hair-raising days in the forces during WWII memorable reading indeed. His film anecdotes are variable - some are great (like his pieces on Marty, The Vikings, Suppose They Gave A War And Nobody Came) but others seem a bit brief and pointless. We'll be kind and call them "padding".
Overall, however, I thoroughly enjoyed reading the life story of this old pro. He sure as hell lived life the way he wanted to and on the whole he shares a lot of joyous stories here, as well as having many worthwhile opinions to impart.
December 21, 2008
I've found this book to be very entertaining. I have seen many of his films over the years, some I remember, many I don't. But, reading this memoir has inspired me to see Marty, which I had never seen before. There are others I am inspired to see, some I plan to revisit because I hadn't remembered Ernie's supporting role.
Mr. Borgnine is a compelling storyteller. You will be captivated by his humility and inspired by his easy going style. To hear him tell of his frienship with Lee Marvin, his "business dealings" with Burt Lancasater, and his touching moment with Glenn Ford in the hospital is only a taste of the cornincopia of enthralling anecdotes.
I encourage you to read this book if you have even a passing interest the Hollywood of the 1950s to today. Ernest Borgnine is fun actor to watch and joy to read!
Mr. Borgnine is a compelling storyteller. You will be captivated by his humility and inspired by his easy going style. To hear him tell of his frienship with Lee Marvin, his "business dealings" with Burt Lancasater, and his touching moment with Glenn Ford in the hospital is only a taste of the cornincopia of enthralling anecdotes.
I encourage you to read this book if you have even a passing interest the Hollywood of the 1950s to today. Ernest Borgnine is fun actor to watch and joy to read!
September 20, 2021
I found Ernie to be a great book. Ernest Borgnine was a rather interesting character who was a bit versatile in what he did. He had fond memories of those he worked with and mentioned many of them throughout his book. He was a character and one of the icons of Hollywood. If you read biographies of those in Hollywood, you might just consider this book. It is worth it. It may just bring back some memories of McHale's Navy...who knows?
February 7, 2011
Breezy, jovial, and heartfelt are words that best describe Borgnine's look back on his amazing careers in theater, film and television. Although I don't see eye to eye with him on politics, I can't help but to respect this man for his amazing work ethic and down-to-earth attitude. I read this book just after finishing a biography of Ethel Merman. Their short-lived marriage aside, these two top-notch entertainers are linked together in that the shallow, image-driven world of Hollywood today has little room for their kind of talent. It is a sad, dull, little world we live in. Thank god for Netflix. I've got a Borgnine film festival lined up in my queue.
January 24, 2010
A straightforward and likable enough autobiography, mostly of interest to fans of Mr. Borgnine. No real surprises here, if you know he grew up Italian and poor in New York and went into the Navy after avoiding success in several other pursuits. Every once in a while, he drops a gem of an anecdote about himself or another star. But most stories are oddly short on too many details. Even McHale's Navy and Airwolf get very short shrift (especially the latter).
May 15, 2010
An extremely good read. Ernie has been in about 100 movies. This really goes to show that looks aren't everything, or are they? He had the look they were after. Don Rickles has him in his act (sort of). Don would point at a girl in the audience and say, "Here she is, the winner of the Ernest Borgnine look alike contest!"
This book is as good as they get. Ernie telling us all about Ernie in his own words.
My second favorite autobiography. Second only to Brando: Songs My Mother Tought Me.
This book is as good as they get. Ernie telling us all about Ernie in his own words.
My second favorite autobiography. Second only to Brando: Songs My Mother Tought Me.
January 11, 2012
This is a really great autobiography. Not too much. Not too little. Just right. And clearly in the author's own voice. The honesty that comes through is refreshing and helps the entirety come to life. This is also a great primer for anyone thinking of going Hollywood. It ain't just flashbulbs and fans. It's lots of hard work and dedication. Something Borgnine fluidly points out throughout. The book is overall well constructed and great fun to read.
January 30, 2013
A lovely trip down memory lane by one of the best character actors in the business. Very upbeat and uplifting. Versatility thy name is Borgnine!
For a slightly longer review just follow the link!
http://mikesfilmtalk.com/2013/01/30/e...
For a slightly longer review just follow the link!
http://mikesfilmtalk.com/2013/01/30/e...
October 2, 2012
I found this to be a very readable book & very enjoyable. It sounded just like Ernie was talking to me. Don't know when I've enjoyed reading a bio this much. It is a little coarse in spots but not overly so.
February 14, 2014
With me being an old movie buff,this book was right up my street.It was an enjoyable read with just the right amount of time spent on the movies and the old stories.I was glad it didn't spend a great deal of time on marriages/kids etc like some autobiographies do.
June 11, 2015
I loved his book. He is so humble and nice. He started out in the military before becoming an actor. He kept getting part so he kept going. He won an Academy Award. He describes all the movies he has made, which I loved. He was lucky in love until he met Tova. He said that was his best marriage.
September 1, 2013
I learned more about Ernie than I could have imagined.
September 15, 2014
Very good book. Easy read, like you are sitting listening to stories.
June 3, 2015
Really a great book!
March 22, 2020
Another BookBub discount book that knocked it out of the park. Ernest Borgnine was the consummate actor from stage to TV to film to animation and voice-overs. His Brooklyn dialect, big toothy grin and belly laugh enhanced by his natural ability to entertain created an enduring legacy. This is a happy, funny book. Ernie's ego is the size of a split pea. He is self-effacing, simple and, at every turn of his more than 70 year career, eternally grateful. He praises many of his peers, confesses to more than a few box office bombs with a refreshing, disarming candour and takes the blame for his ill-fated marriages - but his fifth and final marriage ran several decades. I don't want to spoil too much but his very short marriage to Ethel Merman was both hellish and hilarious, a kind of Murphy's Law in matrimony that traversed the circuit from the altar to the divorce court within a few months. Ernie is an engaging storyteller. His perspectives on the Old and the New Hollywood, the outsized egos in the film business and the behind the scenes accounts on movies he acted in are the best ticket in town. He offers up advice without political theatrics and polemics. Just simple rules that enriched his long and distinguished life.
They don't make em like this anymore. Millennials may have no clue about Ernie and his movies like From Here to Eternity, Dirty Dozen, Marty, the Poseidon Adventure and Escape from New York. If there is an actor to binge-watch, it is Ernie Borgnine, probably the most modest scene-stealer that the entertainment world will ever know.
They don't make em like this anymore. Millennials may have no clue about Ernie and his movies like From Here to Eternity, Dirty Dozen, Marty, the Poseidon Adventure and Escape from New York. If there is an actor to binge-watch, it is Ernie Borgnine, probably the most modest scene-stealer that the entertainment world will ever know.
April 21, 2020
The biography is straightforward and Borgnine comes across as a likable guy, coming from an average, non-neurotic family.
Giving some mention of his family history, where they changed their name because Italians faced discrimination, Borgnine talks about his growing-up years and how he had to work as a child, sometimes having to steal vegetables so his family could eat, how he was adventurous enough so that he joined the Navy in 1935 to see the world (and did), and how his career ended after ten years in it-but he didn't know what to do afterward. His mother, perhaps jokingly suggested he try the theater, and then he really did, moving on later both to movies and the then-new medium of television, finding all mediums to his liking.
Borgnine talks about the friends and enemies he made, his three failed and last successful marriage, and how well or badly his various projects went. Not a pretty boy, but ugly boys are needed to entertain as well. Interesting story.
Giving some mention of his family history, where they changed their name because Italians faced discrimination, Borgnine talks about his growing-up years and how he had to work as a child, sometimes having to steal vegetables so his family could eat, how he was adventurous enough so that he joined the Navy in 1935 to see the world (and did), and how his career ended after ten years in it-but he didn't know what to do afterward. His mother, perhaps jokingly suggested he try the theater, and then he really did, moving on later both to movies and the then-new medium of television, finding all mediums to his liking.
Borgnine talks about the friends and enemies he made, his three failed and last successful marriage, and how well or badly his various projects went. Not a pretty boy, but ugly boys are needed to entertain as well. Interesting story.
July 15, 2020
If you are a fan of Ernest Borgnine, you will love this book. If you are a fan of action/adventure movies made from the 1950's - 1970's, you will love this book. Ernest Borgnine comes across in his book exactly the way he comes across in the old television show McHale's Navy; nice, gregarious, smart, but not too smart; a nice guy who happened to be in the right places at the right times to get a lot of great character roles in movies. He talks about his early life in the first half or so of the book (his early life had a surprising period - I won't give it away here for others who may be unaware of it, and have not read the book yet.) The second half of the book, as his life becomes increasingly movies and television, is more of less a list of those, with entertaining vignettes on various cast members.
December 24, 2023
4.5 Stars
One of my favorite "Old Hollywood" reads.
Some of the stories that stood out to me as most humorous or interesting:
* how his career was affected by McCarthyism
* how when he found out he was doing a movie with Frank Sinatra he got nervous because he thought he'd been signed onto a musical 😄
* when he did "The Vikings" with Kirk Douglas, he was cast as Kirk's father, even though he was a month younger than Kirk. Borgnine also talks about watching young Michael and Eric Douglas playing with toy swords on set.
* his role in "Flight of the Phoenix" alongside Jimmy Stewart, James Cagney, Gary Cooper, and Spencer Tracey --- never knew before that each character was meant to represent the nations involved in WW2!
One of my favorite "Old Hollywood" reads.
Some of the stories that stood out to me as most humorous or interesting:
* how his career was affected by McCarthyism
* how when he found out he was doing a movie with Frank Sinatra he got nervous because he thought he'd been signed onto a musical 😄
* when he did "The Vikings" with Kirk Douglas, he was cast as Kirk's father, even though he was a month younger than Kirk. Borgnine also talks about watching young Michael and Eric Douglas playing with toy swords on set.
* his role in "Flight of the Phoenix" alongside Jimmy Stewart, James Cagney, Gary Cooper, and Spencer Tracey --- never knew before that each character was meant to represent the nations involved in WW2!
February 2, 2025
One of Hamden, CT's claims to fame, Mr. Ernest Borgnine, was so extraordinary. I knew he was talented, but I didn't know just how much work he accomplished in his 60+ years in show business. A true patriot and hero for our country, this book is as much autobiography as it is a piece of American history. To read his accounts of WWII just makes me appreciate him more-so many of the actors from that generation inspire me with their service.
He name drops a lot of greats, with intriguing anecdotes from all the eras in his life. I found myself laughing multiple times. For all his accolades, he remained true to himself and so humble. What an icon.
Highly recommend this autobiography.
He name drops a lot of greats, with intriguing anecdotes from all the eras in his life. I found myself laughing multiple times. For all his accolades, he remained true to himself and so humble. What an icon.
Highly recommend this autobiography.
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