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What's Next

A Backstage Pass to The West Wing, Its Cast and Crew, and Its Enduring Legacy of Service

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What's Next

By: Melissa Fitzgerald, Mary McCormack
Narrated by: Alison Janney, Mary McCormack, Melissa Fitzgerald
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"This is the book The West Wing deserves." Allison Janney

"A joy and a MUST READ for all the Wingnuts out there!" Brad Whitford

A behind-the-scenes look into the creation and legacy of The West Wing as told by cast members Melissa Fitzgerald and Mary McCormack, with compelling insights from cast and crew exploring what made the show what it was and how its impassioned commitment to service has made the series and relationships behind it endure. Includes an exclusive foreword by showrunner Aaron Sorkin and introduction by cast member Allison Janney.

Step back inside the world of President Jed Bartlet's Oval Office with Fitzgerald and McCormack as they reunite the West Wing cast and crew in a lively and colourful "backstage pass" to the timeless series. This intimate, in-depth reflection reveals how The West Wing was conceived, and spotlights the army of people it took to produce it, the lifelong friendships it forged, and the service it inspired.

From cast member origin stories to the collective cathartic farewell on the show's final night of filming, What's Next will delight readers with on-set and off-camera anecdotes that even West Wing super fans have never heard. Meanwhile, a deeper analysis of the show's legacy through American culture, service, government, and civic life underscores how the series envisaged an American politics of decency and honour, creating an aspirational White House beyond the bounds of fictional television.

What's Next revisits beloved episodes with fresh, untold commentary; compiles poignant and hilarious stories from the show's production; highlights initiatives supported by the cast, crew, and creators; and makes a powerful case for competent, empathetic leadership, hope, and optimism for whatever lies ahead.

"What's Next is the highest level of access you can get to The West Wing without a background check." Josh Malina

"What's Next is the book we all need right now." Dulé Hill

"Any West Wing fan will adore this book, as will anyone who admires brilliant television and all that it takes to make it. Run and buy What's Next for all the West Wingers in your life!" Janel Moloney©2023 Melissa Fitzgerald & Mary McCormack Entertainment & Performing Arts Film & TV Politics & Government Social Sciences United States World Witty Funny
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An amazing audiobook – every bit as inspiring as the show itself.

I can’t thank the authors enough, not only for helping us relive The West Wing and understand more about how it was made, but also for sharing their own powerful stories of public service. At a time when hope can feel in short supply, their belief in the possibility of making the world better feels both moving and deeply necessary.

The performances are superb. Melissa Fitzgerald and Mary McCormack bring warmth, intelligence and authenticity to every page, making the audiobook feel like an intimate conversation with old friends. And hearing Brad Whitford and Richard Schiff pay tribute to John Spencer is profoundly moving – a reminder of the extraordinary humanity at the heart of both the series and the people who created it.

For anyone who loves The West Wing, this is much more than a behind-the-scenes book. It’s a celebration of idealism, public service, friendship and hope. Highly recommended.

Every bit as inspiring as the show itself

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I have long been a fan of the West Wing and was pleased that two members of the "West Wing Family" have shared their insights, memories and service experiences.
A great listen read by the authors with a real passion and hope in the results of their efforts.

Entertaining & Thoughtful

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I loved this. As a wing nut, this was enthralling, informative and a joy to listen to. A true insight into the history of the show…

Tremendous stroll through memory lane

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A must listen (or read) for all fans of the West Wing. So many insights, 'fun facts' and background information. Just brilliant.

Brilliant!

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I was so excited to delve back into the world of the West Wing and this didn’t disappoint.
Great stories and from the voices of some of the cast. Just perfect.

West wing fans, it’s a must!

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