Hannah Gadsby Books In Order

Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books

About Hannah Gadsby

Hannah Gadsby is a talented Australian comedian, writer, and actor. They kicked off their career in Australia by clinching the national final of the Raw Comedy competition back in 2006. Their show ‘Nanette’ on Netflix, which aired in 2018, won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special and a Peabody Award, showcasing their prowess as a gifted writer and performer.

From 2019 onwards, Gadsby embarked on international tours with their show ‘Douglas,’ eventually releasing the recorded special on Netflix in 2020. Their achievements include being conferred an honorary doctorate from the University of Tasmania in 2021. Recently, in March 2022, they unveiled ‘Ten Steps to Nanette: A Memoir Situation.’ Fans can also spot Gadsby as the character Celia, a radio show host, in the fourth season of Netflix’s ‘Sex Education.’

Hannah Gadsby continues to shine as a multifaceted performer, known for their engaging narratives that have garnered a global audience. Through their work like ‘Nanette’ and ‘Douglas,’ they have proven to be a remarkable stage presence. Their increasing recognition and accolades demonstrate their impact in the world of comedy and entertainment.

Early and Personal Life

Hannah Gadsby, Australian comedian, was born in Burnie, Tasmania, in 1978 on the 12th of January. Raised in Smithton as the youngest of five, they attended Smithton High School and later Launceston College. They earned a bachelor’s degree in art history and curatorship from the Australian National University in 2003.

After studies, Gadsby worked in Canberra bookshops and as a Darwin cinema projectionist. They also did agricultural work on Australia’s east coast for two years, facing challenges like homelessness and health issues. Gadsby was diagnosed with autism and ADHD in 2017.

Identifying as lesbian and genderqueer, Gadsby includes LGBTQ themes in their comedy. They married producer Jenney Shamash in January 2021. Additionally, Gadsby supports charities such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Melbourne and the Sacred Heart Mission.

Comedy Career

Hannah Gadsby entered stand-up comedy in 2006 through Raw Comedy in Adelaide, later earning recognition at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Their debut solo show won awards and led to international tours, showcasing their talent at various festivals. Gadsby’s acclaimed ‘Nanette’ in 2017 reflected personal experiences, addressing social issues with a mix of humor and storytelling.

Following the success of ‘Nanette,’ Gadsby premiered ‘Douglas’ in 2019, expanding beyond traditional comedy to explore new revelations and societal topics. Their show ‘Body of Work,’ launched in 2021, further displayed Gadsby’s comedic range across multiple global venues. They would also go on to create the 2024 Netflix comedy special ‘Hannah Gadsby’s Gender Agenda’ alongside seven other up-and-coming genderqueer comics.

Gadsby has received numerous awards for their comedy work. Noteworthy accolades include second place at the 2006 So You Think You’re Funny? competition and the 2007 Best Newcomer Award at the Adelaide Fringe.

Their show ‘Nanette’ earned significant acclaim, winning the 2017 Helpmann Award for Best Comedy Performer and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Comedy Award. Gadsby’s success continued with awards like another 2019 Helpmann Award for Best Comedy Performer, this time for ‘Douglas,’ and a Peabody Award for ‘Nanette,’ also in 2019.

With continuing acclaim and plans for future releases, Gadsby solidifies their impact as a prominent figure in the comedy world.

Acting Career

In the television realm, Gadsby co-wrote and starred in ABC’s ‘Adam Hills Tonight’ and featured in ‘Please Like Me’ from 2013 to 2016. They also made guest appearances on shows like ‘QI’ and ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.’ Gadsby played Celia in Netflix’s ‘Sex Education’ and hosted documentary mini-series like ‘Hannah Gadsby’s Oz.’ Their comedy specials include ‘Hannah Gadsby: Nanette’ and ‘Hannah Gadsby: Douglas.’

Further projects for Gadsby included the animated film ‘Hitpig’ and the comedy special ‘Gender Agenda’ in 2024.

Art Criticism

Hannah engaged in art curation by leading comedy art tours with the National Gallery of Victoria and hosting documentary specials for ABC TV. In 2023, they curated ‘It’s Pablo-matic: Picasso According to Hannah Gadsby’ at the Brooklyn Museum, offering a feminist perspective on Picasso’s artistic legacy. Despite some controversy upon its release, the exhibition provided a contemporary and critical view of Picasso’s life and work, acknowledging his impact while challenging traditional interpretations with a more progressive modern lens.

Writing Career

Hannah Gadsby’s writing career soared with the release of ‘Ten Steps to Nanette: A Memoir Situation,’ a New York Times bestseller in March 2022. The memoir received acclaim for addressing weighty issues with humor and insight.

In 2018, Gadsby contributed to ‘The Guilty Feminist: You Don’t Have to Be Perfect to Overthrow the Patriarchy,’ advocating for inclusive feminism and societal change through thoughtful discussions.

Their writing showcases a blend of wit and introspection, aiming to inspire a more empowered and accepting world.

Ten Steps to Nanette

Published on March 29, 2022, by Allen & Unwin, Hannah Gadsby’s memoir ‘Ten Steps to Nanette: A Memoir Situation’ received award nominations, including British Book Award, Audie Award, Australian Book Industry Award (ABIA), and Goodreads Choice Award for Humor and Best Humor.

Hannah Gadsby, acclaimed for their groundbreaking show ‘Nanette,’ delves into pivotal life events that inspired this transformative production and their resolute commitment to authenticity, regardless of the consequences. Gadsby’s raw honesty captivated audiences, challenging societal norms with both tension and humor.

Amidst their global success, Gadsby’s journey from humble beginnings to comedic acclaim was far from straightforward, influenced by their Tasmanian roots, struggles with neurodiversity, and the profound themes explored in ‘Nanette.’

In ‘Ten Steps to Nanette,’ Gadsby shares their evolution as a queer individual, navigating adversity, late diagnoses, and the profound impact of their renunciation of self-deprecation and misogyny. Combining humor and hardship, Gadsby defies conventions and sheds light on their remarkable journey, solidifying their position as a vital, trailblazing voice in contemporary culture.

A compelling exploration of personal growth and authenticity, this memoir offers a profound journey through humor and hardship. Nominated for multiple awards, it’s transformative read providing an empowering perspective on navigating adversity and redefining societal norms with refreshing honesty and humor. Documenting an artist and their progression, it’s a must for not just fans of Hannah Gadsby, but the medium of comedy and performance as a whole.