Griffin Dunne’s upcoming memoir, “The Friday Afternoon Club: A Family Memoir,” promises readers an intimate journey through the intricacies of friendship, fame, and personal discovery. In its pages, Dunne unveils a surprising revelation about his bond with the late Carrie Fisher, shedding light on a poignant chapter in both their lives.
At the heart of Dunne’s memoir is his enduring friendship with Carrie Fisher, renowned for her iconic portrayal of Princess Leia in the “Star Wars” franchise. Despite the absence of a romantic relationship, Dunne reveals a deeply intimate aspect of their bond: Fisher’s loss of virginity to him while she was romantically involved with another man. This revelation serves as a poignant reflection of the complexities and nuances inherent in their friendship.
In an excerpt published by “The Sunday Times,” Dunne candidly shares the intricacies of their relationship, detailing Fisher’s insatiable curiosity about his romantic experiences. From his first kiss to intimate post-coital reflections, Fisher eagerly absorbed every detail, fostering a deep emotional connection between them. Despite the undeniable chemistry, Fisher remained steadfast in her decision not to pursue a romantic involvement with Dunne, recognizing the potential complications it could bring to their friendship.
The memoir delves into the dynamics of Fisher’s romantic life at the time, revealing her relationship with a man named Donald. Dunne recalls admiring and supporting Donald in his pursuit of Fisher, grappling with the internal conflict of concealing the truth about his own intimate encounter with her. This revelation adds a layer of complexity to their friendship, highlighting the blurred lines between platonic and romantic affection.
Their bond is further illuminated through Dunne’s recollections of shared experiences and playful antics. From engaging in a prank war to navigating the challenges of adulthood together, Dunne and Fisher forged a deep and enduring connection rooted in mutual respect and understanding. Despite the intimate nature of their encounter, both Dunne and Fisher remained committed to preserving the integrity of their friendship, a testament to the strength of their bond.
As their friendship blossomed, Dunne and Fisher transitioned to becoming roommates, a decision prompted by Fisher’s mother, Debbie Reynolds. This period of their lives is marked by shared laughter, late-night conversations, and the pursuit of their respective passions. Dunne fondly reminisces about their time living together in New York City, where Fisher’s burgeoning acting career took center stage.
Reflecting on Fisher’s meteoric rise to fame, Dunne grapples with the complexities of navigating friendship with someone thrust into the spotlight overnight. From Fisher’s humble acceptance of her role in “Star Wars” to the overwhelming pressures of celebrity, Dunne offers readers a poignant glimpse into the challenges of fame and its impact on personal relationships.
Throughout the memoir, Dunne weaves a rich tapestry of personal anecdotes and reflections, offering readers an intimate portrait of his own upbringing in a family entrenched in the world of literature and entertainment. With familial ties to esteemed figures like Joan Didion, John Gregory Dunne, and Dominick Dunne, Dunne provides a unique perspective on the intersection of family legacy and personal identity.
In addition to his reflections on friendship and fame, Dunne shares poignant anecdotes about encounters with other “Star Wars” luminaries before they achieved widespread acclaim. These stories offer readers a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of Hollywood’s elite and the enduring impact of Fisher’s legacy.
As Dunne’s memoir prepares to make its debut, readers can anticipate a captivating narrative that transcends the confines of celebrity culture. Through the lens of his friendship with Carrie Fisher and the broader context of his familial legacy, Dunne invites readers on a poignant journey of self-discovery and remembrance, offering a compelling exploration of friendship, fame, and the enduring power of human connection.
