Episode Summary: Ione Skye, SAY EVERYTHING: A Memoir

Episode Title: Ione Skye, SAY EVERYTHING: A Memoir
Release Date: March 10, 2025
Podcast: Totally Booked with Zibby
Host: Zibby Owens
Guest: Ione Skye, Author of Say Everything: A Memoir

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens welcomes actress and author Ione Skye to discuss her latest work, Say Everything: A Memoir. The conversation delves deep into Ione's journey in Hollywood, her personal relationships, the motivations behind writing her memoir, and her path toward personal growth and happiness.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Ione Skye opens up about her unexpected entry into acting. Growing up in Los Angeles with familial connections in the music industry, Ione wasn’t initially driven to act like her older brother. Her breakthrough came when a casting director noticed her through a photo taken by her brother, leading to her first major role opposite Keanu Reeves in River's Edge.

Ione Skye [07:14]: "I got the job, which was incredible. It was the lead and it was opposite Keanu Reeves. And I thought, well, maybe that's it. Like I, you know, just. I did this one movie and I'll go back to high school."

Ione explains that her career took off with a series of notable roles in films like Say Anything alongside John Cusack and Zodiac directed by David Fincher. These roles established her in the industry, leading to a steady stream of work over several years.

Relationships and Personal Life

A significant portion of the memoir focuses on Ione's personal relationships, particularly her early experiences with fame and love. She candidly discusses her crush on Keanu Reeves during the filming of River's Edge, highlighting the challenges of navigating young love in the spotlight.

Ione Skye [09:58]: "I'm just going to show up and all the details like, here I am and here I am in the bathroom. And like, then he's like, no."

Her relationship with Anthony Kiedis is another focal point, illustrating the complexities of connecting with someone while dealing with personal insecurities and external pressures. Ione also touches on her marriage to musician Ben Lee, emphasizing the growth and stability it brought into her life.

Additionally, Ione explores her journey to understanding her sexuality, discussing moments of self-discovery and the impact of her relationships on her personal identity.

Ione Skye [16:11]: "I could have a good marriage. So I think being older... knowing I like being married."

Writing the Memoir

The decision to pen her memoir stems from a desire to share her authentic self beyond the public persona. Ione felt that her shyness and enigmatic nature left people curious but disconnected from who she truly is.

Ione Skye [04:31]: "I just really, truly wanted people to get to know my mind and get to know me and it felt, I felt excited at the idea of writing my story."

She discusses the challenges of writing a memoir, balancing creative expression with factual storytelling. Drawing inspiration from writers like Carrie Fisher, Ione aimed to infuse humor and honesty into her narrative, making her story both engaging and relatable.

Ione Skye [28:58]: "I was trying to figure out, not in a way to, like, I have to cure myself, but just out of curiosity and what is this?"

Personal Growth and Happiness

Throughout the memoir, Ione reflects on her personal growth, addressing themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and the pursuit of happiness. She shares insights on how aging has influenced her perspective, balancing wisdom with the challenges that come with getting older.

Ione Skye [35:14]: "For sure. And being getting older is interesting because, yes, I care less and I'm being more bold in my acting. But also, aging is not easy."

Ione emphasizes the importance of self-understanding and continuous personal development, acknowledging both the joys and struggles that have shaped her life.

Advice for Aspiring Authors and Creatives

Ione offers valuable advice to aspiring authors and creatives, stressing the significance of support systems and staying true to oneself. She encourages writers to seek guidance while maintaining their unique voice, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of writing.

Ione Skye [36:59]: "I would just recommend doing it kind of by the book because that's how I felt comfortable."

She also touches on the complexities of fame, advocating for its use as a tool rather than a destination, and underscores the importance of perseverance in creative endeavors.

Ione Skye [32:38]: "For you, fame can be a tool to getting what you want as opposed to, like, reveling in it."

Conclusion

The episode culminates with Ione expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to share her story, both through her memoir and her ongoing career. She reflects on the continuous journey of self-improvement and the fulfillment that comes from connecting with others through her work.

Ione Skye [39:02]: "Thank you for having me."

Zibby Owens wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to explore Ione's memoir and celebrates the honest, introspective conversation that offers a deeper understanding of Ione Skye's life and artistry.

Notable Quotes

• Ione Skye on Writing Her Memoir:

  "I just really, truly wanted people to get to know my mind and get to know me and it felt, I felt excited at the idea of writing my story." [04:31]

• Ione Skye on Relationships and Fame:

  "I'm just going to show up and all the details like, here I am and here I am in the bathroom. And like, then he's like, no." [09:58]

• Ione Skye on Personal Growth:

  "I care less and I'm being more bold in my acting. But also, aging is not easy." [35:14]

• Ione Skye on Advice for Writers:

  "I would just recommend doing it kind of by the book because that's how I felt comfortable." [36:59]

Key Takeaways

• Ione Skye’s memoir offers an intimate look into her life in Hollywood, her personal relationships, and her journey toward self-discovery.
• Writing a memoir serves as a therapeutic process for Ione, allowing her to articulate her experiences and growth.
• Personal support systems and staying true to one’s own voice are crucial for creatives navigating fame and personal challenges.
• Ione emphasizes the importance of understanding oneself and the balance between embracing fame as a tool and maintaining authenticity.

Conclusion

This episode of Totally Booked with Zibby provides listeners with a heartfelt and insightful exploration of Ione Skye’s life and work. Through candid conversations and thoughtful reflections, Ione shares her experiences, challenges, and triumphs, offering inspiration to both readers and aspiring creatives.