Glamorous Trash: A Celebrity Memoir Podcast
Episode: Sutton Foster’s Memoir Hooked (with Casey Balsham)
Release Date: April 15, 2025
Host: Chelsea Devantez
Guest: Sutton Foster & Casey Balsham
Introduction to Hooked: How Crafting Saved My Life
In this episode, Chelsea Devantez delves deep into Sutton Foster’s memoir, "Hooked: How Crafting Saved My Life," alongside her longtime collaborator Casey Balsham. The memoir, published in 2021, offers an intimate look into Sutton’s journey through fame, personal struggles, and the therapeutic power of crafting.
Sutton Foster’s Early Life and Broadway Stardom
Chelsea begins by highlighting Sutton Foster's impressive career, noting her roles in Younger, Bunheads (created by Amy Sherman-Palladino of Gilmore Girls fame), and her acclaimed performances on Broadway, including originating the role of Millie in Thoroughly Modern Millie. Sutton’s transition from a Broadway star to a television actress sets the stage for the memoir’s exploration of her multifaceted life.
Notable Quote:
Sutton Foster reflects on her early career:
"I was 17 and was on Broadway. Even after struggling in my personal life, my career just... never stopped." [16:43]
Navigating Personal Relationships and Marriage
The conversation shifts to Sutton’s personal life as chronicled in her memoir. Chelsea and Sutton discuss her first marriage to Christian Boral, a fellow Broadway star. Their relationship, marked by emotional distance and eventual separation, provides a backdrop for understanding Sutton’s search for genuine connection.
Notable Quote:
Chelsea questions the abruptness of Sutton’s proposal:
"Why would you cheat if you...?" [49:28]
Sutton responds candidly about the complexities of her relationships:
"It was a very painful agreement we had made. Shortly after we got married, we realized we wanted more from our relationship." [48:58]
The Therapeutic Power of Crafting
At the heart of Sutton’s memoir is the theme of crafting as a means of self-healing. Facing panic attacks and social ostracization, Sutton turns to knitting and crochet, finding solace and a way to protect herself emotionally.
Notable Quote:
Sutton shares her coping strategy:
"I have to keep busy, have something to do. It's a form of self-protection." [18:26]
Chelsea relates personally, noting her use of work as a crutch:
"I always have deadlines because it helps me get out of situations where I have to be alone with my brain." [19:48]
Complex Relationship with Her Mother
A significant portion of the memoir delves into Sutton’s strained relationship with her agoraphobic mother. The memoir reveals a mother who oscillates between fierce support for Sutton’s career and emotional neglect, creating a tumultuous home environment.
Notable Quote:
Sutton discusses her mother’s contradictory behavior:
"She'd dress up in costumes to hide from us, saying, 'You guys are annoying me.' But then she'd also say, 'You are the reason I'm alive.'" [20:39]
Chelsea emphasizes the emotional toll:
"It's such a dynamic, horribly abusive. It's... so intense." [21:28]
Adoption Journey and Personal Growth
After facing challenges with infertility and a heartbreaking miscarriage, Sutton and her husband Ted choose open adoption for their daughter, Emily. This decision is portrayed as a healing step, allowing Sutton to embrace motherhood in a way that honors both her and Emily’s needs.
Notable Quote:
Sutton reflects on adoption:
"I wrote this book to understand my mother, so that one day Emily will understand me." [81:41]
Chelsea appreciates the open adoption narrative:
"Any adoption that centers the birth parents is a really positive experience." [80:28]
Reflections on Memoir and Its Impact
Chelsea and Casey assess the memoir using the "Doll Test," evaluating its vulnerability, entertainment value, and life elevation. They praise Sutton for her honesty and the therapeutic nature of her storytelling, though they note that the non-linear narrative can sometimes be confusing.
Notable Quote:
Chelsea praises the memoir’s emotional honesty:
"Nothing bad will happen if I allow myself to be big. It’s a necessary reminder for all of us." [82:39]
The Doll Test Evaluation
-
Vulnerability:
Chelsea: "I gave her a half. There's so much more she could give, but I loved it." [83:15]
Sutton: "She passes my test." [84:07] -
Entertainment:
Both agree the memoir is engaging and enjoyable to read. -
Life Elevation:
The memoir provides valuable lessons on accepting oneself and one’s family, resonating deeply with both hosts.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The episode wraps up with Sutton Foster promoting her own podcast, Broadway Bitch, a platform dedicated to theater enthusiasts that promises candid conversations, games, and insider gossip. Chelsea and Sutton express their admiration for the memoir, appreciating how it blends personal trauma with creative expression through crafting.
Notable Quote:
Sutton encourages listeners to embrace their true selves:
"Nothing bad will happen if I allow myself to be big. You don't have to shrink." [82:39]
Chelsea concludes with heartfelt appreciation:
"You rock." [85:24]
Key Takeaways
- Crafting as a Healing Tool: Sutton Foster uses knitting and crochet to manage anxiety and protect herself emotionally.
- Complex Family Dynamics: The memoir offers a raw look into Sutton’s conflicted relationship with her agoraphobic mother.
- Embracing Motherhood: Through open adoption, Sutton finds a fulfilling path to motherhood despite infertility struggles.
- Honest Storytelling: The non-linear narrative provides deep insights but may challenge some readers’ perception of Sutton’s life.
- Personal Growth and Acceptance: Sutton’s journey emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and understanding one’s past to foster personal growth.
Where to Listen
For more insightful discussions on celebrity memoirs and pop culture, tune into Glamorous Trash: A Celebrity Memoir Podcast available on all major podcast platforms.
This summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting the profound themes and candid conversations between Chelsea, Sutton, and Casey. For a deeper dive, listening to the full episode is highly recommended.