Betty White Books In Order

Publication Order of Children's Books

Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books

About Betty White

Betty White was an acclaimed American actress, comedian, and producer with a career that lasted nearly 70 years. She was well-known for her work in television, taking on roles in sitcoms, sketch comedy, and game shows. Notably, she broke new ground as the first woman to produce a sitcom with her series ‘Life with Elizabeth’ in the early 1950s. Her presence in the industry established her as a pioneering figure in early television.

White’s transition from radio to TV led her to become a familiar presence on game shows like ‘Password’ and ‘The $25,000 Pyramid.’ She earned the title ’the first lady of game shows,’ and in 1983 became the first woman to win the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Game Show Host for ‘Just Men!’ Besides game shows, she made regular appearances on comedy and drama series including ‘The Carol Burnett Show’ and ‘Boston Legal.’

Remembered for significant TV roles, White portrayed Sue Ann Nivens for ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show,’ and Rose Nylund for ‘The Golden Girls’ among others. Later in her career, she was in ‘The Proposal’ and hosted ‘Saturday Night Live,’ earning an Emmy for her hosting role. The documentary ‘Betty White: First Lady of Television’ in 2018 celebrates her extensive contributions to the industry.

For her long-standing work, White received numerous awards, a star featured on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and being inducted into the prestigious Television Hall of Fame.

Early and Personal Life

Betty White was born on January 17, 1922, in Oak Park, Illinois, and she grew up in California. As an only child, Betty’s family moved to Los Angeles, where her father sold handmade radios during the Great Depression. With a diverse background that included Greek and Danish roots, Betty’s upbringing was full of unique cultural influences.

Education in Beverly Hills nurtured Betty’s interest in nature and performing arts. Blocked from her dream of being a forest ranger due to gender barriers, she turned her attention to acting. Her role in a school play at Horace Mann School unveiled her passion for acting, a path she chose to follow in earnest.

Betty’s entertainment career began just after high school, singing on a television show and modeling. During World War II, she supported troops by volunteering with the American Women’s Voluntary Services. This experience proved to be an unconventional backdrop for the start of her long and varied career in show business.

She would marry Allen Ludden 1963, and she would pass away in 2021 on the 25th of December, leaving behind a powerful and important legacy.

Acting Career

Betty White faced early rejection in film for supposedly not being ‘photogenic,’ so she switched to radio instead. She then built a television career starting with ‘Hollywood on Television’ in 1949, leading her own variety show by 1952. Challenging racial barriers, she cast African-American performer Arthur Duncan on her show.

White co-created her sitcom ‘Life with Elizabeth,’ earning an Emmy for her work. She gained fame on ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show,’ winning two Emmys, and reached iconic status as Rose Nylund on ‘The Golden Girls.’ Post-’Golden Girls,’ she won an Emmy for a guest spot on ‘The John Larroquette Show’ and took on roles in TV and film, advocating for animal welfare.

White’s career resurgence included the film ‘The Proposal,’ a viral Super Bowl ad, and hosting ‘Saturday Night Live’ at 88, earning her another Emmy. She starred in ‘Hot in Cleveland’ for six seasons. Recognized with numerous awards, including a spot on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and as an honorary forest ranger, White was celebrated well into her 90s and named America’s most trusted celebrity.

Writing Career

Betty White expanded her talents beyond acting by becoming an author. She wrote several books, including ‘Betty White in Person’ in 1987 and ‘Here We Go Again: My Life in Television’ in 1995. Her written works often gave readers a window into her personal life and experiences, particularly her connections with animals and television.

In her writing career, White achieved notable recognition with the publication of ‘If You Ask Me (And of Course You Won’t)’ in 2011. This book’s audio version, narrated by White herself, received a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Recording in 2012.

Her commitment to writing was an extension of her creativity and passion, showcasing her versatility and personal narratives to a broad audience.

If You Ask Me

Betty White authored the memoir ‘If You Ask Me,’ which was published on May 3, 2011, by G.P. Putnam’s Sons. The year it was released, the audiobook version of this memoir earned a Grammy Award, adding a prestigious accolade to White’s myriad achievements.

Legendary entertainer Betty White shares her insights and experiences, where her wit shines on subjects such as love, life, and fame. With her signature charm, she reflects on friendships, the art of growing older gracefully, and her passion for animals, while offering a behind-the-scenes look at her extensive career in show business.

The book blends her thoughtful perspectives with amusing anecdotes, including her affection for Robert Redford and her humorous approach to beauty. Betty also recounts how a robust Facebook campaign led her to host ‘Saturday Night Live,’ after she had initially turned down the opportunity multiple times.

Her amusing anecdotes, including a charming revelation about her crush on Robert Redford, are interspersed with moments of candor, making the memoir resonate with a genuineness that is rare and refreshing. The book’s captivating stories, paired with Betty’s unmistakable voice, earned the audiobook recognition with a Grammy Award, testifying to the memoir’s engaging warmth and appeal.

Here We Go Again

‘Here We Go Again: My Life in Television’ is a memoir penned by the celebrated Betty White. This work was published on December 1, 1995, by the publishing house Scribner. The publication delves into the extensive television career of the prominent actress and entertainer.

Betty White’s television debut in 1949 marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey through the annals of TV history, with hallmark shows like ‘Life with Elizabeth,’ ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show,’ and ‘The Golden Girls’ under her belt. Known for her tireless work ethic, her humor, and optimism, she has captivated fans for over fifty years.

This memoir offers an insider’s glimpse into White’s career progression from radio to the rise of ‘The Betty White Show,’ alongside her explosion in popularity during her sixty-first year on screen. The memoir is rife with delightful stories, personal insights, and the humor that has made Betty White an endearing icon to so many.