Actress of a Certain Age

My Twenty-Year Trail to Overnight Success

By: Jeff Hiller

Narrated by: Jeff Hiller

A humorous collection of autobiographical essays from comedian and Somebody Somewhere actor Jeff Hiller, who shares his journey from growing up “profoundly gay” in 1980s Texas to his experiences as an inept social worker and how he clawed, scraped, and brawled to Hollywood’s lower middle-tier.

While struggling to find success as an actor and pay the bills, something accidentally happened to Jeff Hiller: he aged. And while it’s one thing to get older and rest on the laurels of success from the blood, sweat, and tears of your youth, it’s quite another to be old and have no laurels. At forty, stuck in a temp job making spreadsheets, the dream of becoming a star seemed out of reach. But after twenty-five years of guest roles on TV and performing improv in a grocery store basement, he finally struck gold with a breakout role on HBO’s Somebody Somewhere, playing Joel—the kind of best friend everyone wishes they had.

In his book, Jeff dives into the grit and grind of climbing the Hollywood ladder. It’s a raw and often hilarious tale of the struggles, triumphs, and humiliations that shaped him into the wonderfully imperfect person he is today. With a mix of awkward charm and heartfelt honesty, Jeff shares his journey: growing up very Lutheran in Texas, navigating bullying as a gay kid, working as a social worker for unhoused youth and HIV prevention, and the endless ups and downs of being a struggling actor. For every one of us who have a dream that we’re chasing—and chasing, and chasing—his is a funny, moving, and utterly relatable story.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2025 Jeff Hiller (P)2025 Simon & Schuster Audio

Beautiful and Vulnerable

This really felt like getting the back story on a new BFF. What a beautiful person!

Fantastic listen!

Loved the story and the narration. Feels like hanging out with Jeff Hiller as he shares stories of his life.

I love Jeff Hiller! Entertaining and gave me all the feels

I was introduced to Jeff in his HBO show, Somebody, Somewhere. I fell in love with his character and longed to be a member of the friend group portrayed on the show. Hearing his story and being able to hear his giggle again was a treat. I love the way he read his story as well. His perseverance in his career is an inspiration to all! I love to see someone who refuses to quit, get their day in the spotlight and I wish him continued success! Love you Jeff!

I loved hearing Jeff’s reading of his hilarious and heartwarming book!

Jeff’s book is charming, sweet, and hilarious - just like Somebody Somewhere! Jeff’s life isn’t all that similar to mine, but I found his takeaways and struggles felt familiar. Loved this book!

Narration by the Author is Sublime

The author's sense of the absurd makes this a must-listen, especially if you love David Sedaris.

Funny and warm

Jeff’s performance is fabulous. His book is full of fun, heartwarming, and honest stories. It was a pleasure to listen.

Amazing performance and great story!

Absolutely delightful, highly recommend this wonderful story, performance and overall experience. Jeff Hiller is an incredible writer and narrator, taking you on a journey through his career and experiences, with tenderness and laughter.

What’s not to love?

I absolutely loved this book! There were so many great stories. Jeff Hiller’s narration was wonderful, and if you don’t already love him- you will after listening/reading.

Like spending time with a friend

I loved his story, I loved listening to him read it. I’m sorry it’s over, I’m going to miss him!

Hilarious

So good, he’s hilarious and authentic. Watch somebody somewhere, one of the best tv shows I’ve watched.