Pan Macmillan to publish Edmondson’s autobiography

Pan Macmillan has acquired Adrian Edmondson’s first autobiography, entitled Berserker!, for publication in September 2023.

Publishing director Sara Cywinski acquired UK and Commonwealth rights in print, serial, digital and audio from Robert Kirby at United Talent.

In Berserker! – described as “full of wisdom, nostalgia and uniquely observed humour” – the actor, comedian, musician and TV presenter turns his attention to his curious family heritage, repressed boarding school upbringing and how the comedy of these formative years set the tone for his career.

The publisher’s synopsis continues: “Of the 1980s and 1990s alternative comedy scene, Ade reflects on the glorious feeling of belonging in the early days of working in Soho at The Comic Strip and his partnership with Rik Mayall which created cult classics such as ‘The Young Ones’ and ‘Bottom’. Interwoven with star-studded anecdotes and set to a soundtrack of pop hits which transport the reader through time, it’s a memoir like no other.”

Pan Macmillan is planning an “unmissable” publicity and marketing campaign. Activities will include an extensive series of author events at bookshops and literary festivals nationwide, high-profile broadcast and print interviews and appearances on popular podcasts, alongside an “innovative and entertaining” advertising campaign and digital activity.

Edmondson said: “It feels presumptuous expecting you to read about me, but I hope it’s about more than just me, I hope it helps you remember things about you – most of us have lived through the same era. I hope it makes you laugh occasionally, and I hope you enjoy the diversions into history, cooking and pop music, because it’s basically everything I know about being a human being born in Britain in the mid-20th century.”

Cywinski said: “‘It is one of the greatest pleasures of my career to work with Ade Edmondson. There are few people who are as versatile, funny and admired as Ade – and we are honoured that he has entrusted us with the hugely enjoyable (and no doubt enviable) task of publishing his autobiography.”