Gilmore Girls star Kelly Bishop is set to release her debut novel, titled Broad Appeal, which is scheduled for publication by William Morrow in the autumn of 2027. Bishop officially announced the project on Thursday, November 5, revealing that she has co-authored the work alongside Ali Rosen, a New York Times bestselling author known for her engaging storytelling.
The narrative centers on four women in their 70s who unexpectedly become roommates in a Manhattan apartment. The protagonist, Roz, is a 78-year-old retired divorcée residing on the Upper West Side.
As rising housing costs and economic pressures mount, she finds herself compelled to open her home to others to make ends meet. The group of roommates includes her eccentric sister-in-law, a dedicated entomologist, a former trophy wife struggling to recover from financial ruin, and a dance teacher whom Roz met while participating in a protest against gentrification in Spanish Harlem.
What begins as a practical living arrangement soon evolves into a makeshift family unit. However, the stability of this new household is soon challenged by the emergence of long-buried secrets, persistent money troubles, and the resurfacing of past heartbreaks.
The novel is being marketed as a unique blend of the heartwarming friendship and humor found in The Golden Girls, combined with the sharp, witty banter characteristic of Sex and the City. Reflecting on the themes of her book, Bishop stated, "I've always believed that growing older doesn't mean growing smaller." She emphasized that the story aims to celebrate the resilience and vibrancy of women in their later years, challenging societal stereotypes about aging.
Kelly Bishop is widely recognized for her iconic portrayal of Emily Gilmore in the beloved series Gilmore Girls. Her extensive career also includes memorable performances in the classic film Dirty Dancing and the critically acclaimed series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
Her theatrical background is equally impressive; she originated the role of Sheila in the Broadway production of A Chorus Line, a performance that earned her a prestigious Tony Award. This upcoming novel follows the success of her memoir, The Third Gilmore Girl, which was released in 2024 and quickly became a New York Times bestseller.
Fans of Bishop are eagerly anticipating this new chapter in her creative career, as she transitions from memoirist to novelist.