'From humble beginnings to the top of the entertainment tree and everything in between! A beautiful book about a beautiful man' Paddy McGuinness

'Leigh is an artistic genius. This is a unique book' Davina McCall

'Funny, honest and utterly creative. This book is a lot like the man himself!' Fearne Cotton

This is the story of a little boy called Leigh Francis who became a naughty bear. And then a man called Keith Lemon, and also Avid Merrion and whoever else you may or may not know me as (but not Mick Hucknall). All this time behind the neckbrace, bandage or whatever costume I’ve worn, I was still just that little boy called Leigh Francis.

From the moment I stepped out in front of the camera, I’ve always been in character. Now the time has come to lift the mask (literally) and reveal myself (not literally): from growing up in Leeds obsessed with TV, films, toys, clothes and dressing up as my favourite superhero,* to my wild adventures,** my first relationships*** and moving to London to pursue my dream of being silly and having a laugh. Oh, and there’s a bit about making it in the wonderful world of telly – the highs, the lows and everything in between.

So here it is, my memoir! Expect a chuckle, a thoughtful pause and maybe even a tear or two. I can’t lie, I’m a little bit nervous about it as this isn’t like all the made-up stuff I’ve done in character – this is my story. A true story about Leigh.

* Spider-Man

** in the Cubs and Scouts

*** with breakdancing and skateboarding

Leigh's journey from a young boy in Leeds to a renowned figure in the world of television and comedy is a testament to his love for the arts and performing. His memoir is not just a non-fiction account of his life, but also a reflexion of his passion for entertainment and the various genres he has explored.

For fans of Vanessa Feltz (Vanessa Bares All), Pete Wicks (Never Enough), and Roxanne Hoyle (Our LadBaby Journey).

HarperCollins 2024

Leigh, Myself and I: The Autobiography of Me

Leigh, Myself and I: The Autobiography of Me