Memoir of Woody Allen Released by a New Publisher Amidst Controversy

Allen's son, Ronan Farrow, released his investigative book "Catch and Kill" with the same publisher. The deal did not sit well with Farrow who expressed his dismay on Twitter. His sister, Dylan Farrow, accused their father of molesting her at the age of seven.

Adding to the controversy, a walkout was organized by several employees of Hachette Book Group, the company's printer house. In the end, they decided to pull out of the project.

Without fanfare, a new publisher took on the role and released the book on Monday, March 23 as reported by the Associated Press.  Arcade said that the book is "a candid and comprehensive personal account by Woody Allen of his life." Further, it encompasses "his childhood in Brooklyn through his acclaimed career in film, theater, television, print and standup comedy, as well as exploring his relationships with family and friends." 

The publishing company, through the statement of editor Jeannette Seaver, claims, "we as publishers prefer to give voice to a respected artist, rather than bow to those determined to silence him."

"Apropos of Nothing" is dedicated to Allen's wife, Soon-Yi Previn, the adopted daughter of actress Mia Farrow. The memoir showcased his life growing up in New York City, burrowing in the works of literary greats. He wrote about his relationships with the actresses he worked with, particularly Diane Keaton and Mia Farrow.  

Allen and Farrow have one biological son Ronan, and two adopted children, Dylan and Moses. The couple was still together when the actor fell in love with a much younger Soon-Yi Previn. He admitted that at the onset of their affair, "when lust reigns supreme ... we couldn't keep our hands off each other." They married in 1997 and adopted two daughters. He delves further in his autobiography about his split with Farrow, yet recollecting good memories the times they filmed together. 

In this book, he defended himself from the accusation that he sexually abused Dylan. The issue was investigated twice in the '90s, but charges were eventually dropped. Allen ever since had categorically denied that it ever happened.  

Woody Allen's Career

Woody Allen is well-known for his romantic-comedy movies, for which he was director and actor. The most popular among these are "Annie Hall" and "Manhattan," in which Keaton played the leads. Released in 1977, "Annie Hall" garnered four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. "Manhattan" was shown in 1979 with New York City as the setting.

The first movie with Mia Farrow, "A Midsummer Night's Sex Comedy", was released in 1982. Their love blossomed, and they made more movies together. "Hannah and Her Sisters", shown in 1986, gave Allen his second Oscar as Best Original Screenplay. It also earned $18 million, breaking box-office records.

"Apropos of Nothing" is being released nationwide in the U.S.