Gotta Get Theroux This: My Life and Strange Times in Television

(Paperback)

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In 1994 fledgling journalist Louis Theroux was given a one-off gig on Michael Moore's TV Nation, presenting a segment on apocalyptic religious sects. Gawky, socially awkward and totally unqualified, his first reaction to this exciting opportunity was panic. But he'd always been drawn to off-beat characters, so maybe his enthusiasm would carry the day. Or, you know, maybe it wouldn't ... In his book, Louis takes the reader on a joyous journey through his life and unexpectedly successful career. Nervously accepting the BBC's offer of his own series, he went on to create an award-winning documentary style that has seen him immersed in worlds as diverse as racist US militias and secretive pro-wrestlers, the violent gangs of Johannesburg and extreme drinkers in London. Arguably his biggest challenge was corralling celebrities in his When Louis Met series, with Jimmy Savile proving most elusive. Blindsided when the revelations about Savile came to light, Louis was to reflect again on the nature of evil he had spent decades uncovering. Filled with wry observation, larger-than-life characters, and self-deprecating humour, this is Louis at his insightful and honest best.

Reviews

An absorbing and surprisingly candid book . . . * Telegraph Magazine *
Gripping * Daily Mail *
Engaging, funny * Sunday Times *
If you are a fan of Louis Theroux's self-deprecating humour and relaxed broadcasting style, you will enjoy this honest and soul-searching account of his life so far. * Sunday Express *

Author Bio

Louis Theroux is an award-winning journalist and documentary film-maker whose programmes are shown all over the world. In twenty years of working, he has spent time with inmates at San Quentin prison and Miami Jail; gambled with high-rollers at a Las Vegas mega-casino; stalked game with trophy hunters on South Africa's wild animal farms, and spent time getting to know dementia patients and their families in Phoenix, Arizona. His feature-length documentary My Scientology Movie was released in 2016 and his television documentary series Dark States aired in 2017.