Pan Mac rolls with Rick Astley autobiography after 10-way auction

Pan Macmillan is set to publish singer-songwriter Rick Astley’s autobiography. 

Publishing director Sara Cywinski acquired UK and Commonwealth rights in print, serial, digital and audio to Never from Matilda Forbes Watson at WME in a competitive 10-way auction. The memoir will be published in hardback, e-book and audio in October 2024, with the audiobook read by the author. Publication will be accompanied by a “major, unmissable” publicity and marketing campaign.  

When “Never Gonna Give You Up” propelled Astley into the pop stratosphere, his world would never be the same again. “Nothing could have prepared the young, unassuming boy from Lancashire for what was in store for him” the publisher teased. “What followed was a whirlwind of TV appearances, fame, worldwide touring and media scrutiny. After only six years in the business, having sold millions of records globally, Rick made a major life decision to retire, something he has never fully discussed publicly. Time out of the industry offered him room for much-needed reflection (and therapy) – and unknowingly helped to set the stage for his triumphant return to music.” 

Balancing nostalgia, fresh perspectives and introspection, Never “begins with family and unconventional upbringings; journeys through the tumultuous and glamorous world of pop; and takes pause for self-reflection" the publisher said. “Never goes beyond the blinding lights of the stage – giving an intimate look at the man behind the hits – and is a portrait of truth, artistic evolution and the astounding power of contentment.” 

Astley said: “I finally feel I have a story to tell. One with ups and downs, good and bad, but it is my story.” 

Cywinski added: “Rick Astley is quite simply a legend. When we had the opportunity to meet him, we all left desperate to be his publisher. We were blown away by his life story, rich in content, and his thoughts and views are in equal parts insightful and entertaining. Now, here we are … I’m thrilled Rick has trusted us with the delightful task of publishing his memoir, Never.”