You with the Sad Eyes: A Memoir

Why Everyone is Talking About Christina Applegate’s “You with the Sad Eyes”

We’ve seen her as the iconic Kelly Bundy, the hilariously blunt Gwendolyn in Bad Moms, and the fierce Jen Harding in Dead to Me. But in her new memoir, You with the Sad Eyes, Christina Applegate strips away the Hollywood glamour to reveal a story that is as harrowing as it is hopeful.

Written largely from her bed following her 2021 Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis, Applegate uses her lifelong diaries to re-examine her past. This isn't your typical "rise to fame" story. She dives deep into the "grunge" of the 90s, the dark side of the Laurel Canyon scene, and the private battles she fought while the cameras were rolling—including body dysmorphia, industry abuse, and the complicated legacy of her family.

What makes this book stand out is Applegate’s signature "darkly funny" voice. Even when discussing her MS diagnosis or the loss of her ability to dance, she remains unflinchingly honest and sharp-witted. It’s a powerful reminder that while we can’t always control what life throws at us, we can choose how we tell our story.

Why you should read it: If you loved I’m Glad My Mom Died or The Woman in Me, this is your next must-read. It’s a masterclass in resilience and a "real-talk" guide to finding beauty in a messy life.