SOLD OUT The Author Events Series presents Melissa Fitzgerald & Mary McCormack | What's Next: A Backstage Pass to the West Wing REGISTER WHAT'S NEXT: A Backstage Pass to The West Wing, Its Cast and Crew, and Its Enduring Legacy of Service (Dutton; on sale August 13, 2024), by cast members Melissa Fitzgerald (aka Assistant to the Press Secretary Carol Fitzpatrick) and Mary McCormack (aka Deputy National Security Advisor Kate Harper), features a foreword by creator Aaron Sorkin and an introduction by Allison Janney (aka White House press secretary and later WH chief of staff C.J. Cregg). The book offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into The West Wing's creation and legacy, with a particular emphasis on the show's commitment to service that was embodied not only in the cast members' devotion to different causes, which is still ongoing, but also with the strong bonds of friendship and feeling of family that made being part of the show so special and that still endure to this day Melissa Fitzgerald is an actor, producer, and social justice advocate. As an actor, Melissa is best known for her seven-year role as Carol on the award-winning television series The West Wing. While in Hollywood, Melissa cofounded Voices in Harmony, a mentoring program that uses theater to work with historically underserved teens. In 2013, Melissa left Hollywood to champion justice system reform at All Rise, where she is at the forefront of engaging the public in the expansion of treatment courts and advancing justice system responses for individuals impacted by substance use and mental health disorders. Mary McCormack is an actor, producer, and activist. A Tony-nominated Broadway actress, she is known for a diversity of roles across film, television, and theater. Mary is an outspoken advocate for a whole host of causes, from social justice and women's rights to veterans' issues and criminal justice reform. She lives in Los Angeles. Because you love Author Events, please make a donation when you register for this event to ensure that this series continues to inspire Philadelphians. Books will be available for purchase at the library on event night The views expressed by the authors and moderators are strictly their own and do not represent the opinions of the Free Library of Philadelphia or its employees. (recorded 9/11/2024)