Josh Gad’s forthcoming memoir, “In Gad We Trust: A Tell-Some,” promises to reveal a multifaceted individual beyond his public persona as a musical theatre star and the voice of Olaf in Disney’s “Frozen.” The book, which Gad describes as more of a “tell-all,” delves into his personal and professional life, offering a candid and vulnerable look at his journey. He initially hesitated to share so much but ultimately decided that honesty was paramount in creating a compelling narrative. Through the process of writing, Gad discovered more about himself and hopes that readers will find inspiration, humor, and perhaps even a sense of shared experience within its pages.
Gad’s career trajectory, though ultimately successful, wasn’t without its hurdles. He recounts his early attempts to break into the entertainment industry, including multiple rejections from Saturday Night Live. Despite the sting of these setbacks, Gad views rejection as a crucial stepping stone on the path to success. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the refusal to let others dictate one’s potential. This resilient mindset, forged in the fires of early career challenges, served as a catalyst for his future achievements. He learned to harness the frustration of rejection as fuel, transforming it into a powerful motivator to prove his doubters wrong.
Body image and the pressures of Hollywood casting are also addressed in the memoir. Gad openly discusses his struggles with weight and the anxieties it provoked, especially early in his career when he felt pigeonholed into the “loud fat best friend” archetype. He acknowledges that these insecurities continue to linger in the background, but by sharing his experiences, he aims to resonate with others who face similar challenges. His willingness to discuss these often-sensitive topics underscores a desire to connect with readers on a deeper level and foster a sense of shared struggle and resilience.
The book also details Gad’s profound admiration for Robin Williams, particularly the impact of Williams’ performance as the Genie in “Aladdin.” This iconic role ignited Gad’s own aspiration to voice a Disney character, a dream he eventually realized with Olaf. Gad recounts his friendship with Williams, which began after they met during Gad’s run in “The Book of Mormon.” He reflects on the loss of Williams and the missed opportunities for further conversations, expressing gratitude for having had the chance to personally convey his admiration.
Gad’s encounters with other notable figures in the industry are also chronicled in the memoir, including an anecdote about Kevin Spacey. He describes a series of “impression-offs” initiated by Spacey during the filming of the movie “21.” Gad recalls these interactions as both strange and flattering, viewing them as a sign of respect from a seasoned actor. Despite the controversies surrounding Spacey, Gad felt no apprehension about including the story in his book, emphasizing that it simply represents an interesting anecdote from his life experiences.
“In Gad We Trust” unfolds as a multifaceted exploration of Josh Gad’s life, both personal and professional. It’s a story of perseverance through rejection, a candid exploration of body image struggles, a touching tribute to a cherished mentor, and a collection of intriguing encounters within the entertainment industry. Gad’s decision to be open and vulnerable in his writing promises a compelling and relatable narrative, offering readers a glimpse beyond the public persona and into the heart of the man behind the characters. The book’s title, a playful twist on the motto “In God We Trust,” suggests a journey of self-discovery and an invitation to connect with the author on a deeper, more personal level. It’s a journey where humor and vulnerability intertwine, offering a richer understanding of the experiences that shaped the man known as Josh Gad.
