2025's best celebrity memoirs: inside the lives of South Africa’s most famous figures

2025 saw the release of several notable South African memoirs that provide personal insight into the lives of public figures.

From sports to entertainment to personal reflection, these books offer readers a chance to understand the journeys, challenges and triumphs of some of the country’s most recognised personalities.

They reveal stories of perseverance, resilience and the realities behind public success, giving a window into the experiences that shaped these individuals.

“Unlocked” by Eben Etzebeth

“Unlocked” provides a candid look at the life and career of Eben Etzebeth, the most-capped Springbok player in history.

The memoir traces his journey from a working-class childhood in Goodwood, Cape Town, where he was initially considered too small for his high school’s A team, to becoming a 120kg force and two-time Rugby World Cup champion.

Etzebeth shares insight into the inner workings of the Springboks squad, the challenges faced on and off the field and the strategies that drove his success.

He reflects on personal moments, including his bond with teammates like Siya Kolisi, the “dark days” of Springboks rugby and controversial events such as the Langebaan incident.

Etzebeth shared on Instagram: “Over the past few months, I’ve taken time to reflect on my journey - the highs, the lows, the lessons, the people and the moments that shaped me. ‘Unlocked’ tells my story, from growing up in Goodwood to my aspirations, the challenges I’ve faced and what it really took to wear the green and gold. Thank you to everyone who’s supported me - this one is for you.”

“Unfiltered” by Vatiswa Ndara

“Unfiltered: My Unglamorous Odyssey in the World of South African Entertainment” is a tell-all memoir by actress and media personality Vatiswa Ndara.

The book exposes the realities, systemic exploitation and the inequality behind South Africa’s entertainment industry. Ndara details working conditions actors face, including poor pay, long hours and restrictive contracts that limit other opportunities.

Known for her outspokenness, Ndara previously wrote an open letter in 2019 to the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, making allegations against production houses.

In the prologue, Ndara reflects: “Over the years, many have asked when they could read my story. It puzzled me because I never saw writing a book as something I’d do - it felt like summiting Mount Everest. Honestly, it never occurred to me that anyone would be interested enough in my life to buy a book about it."

"It seemed like a bad joke… until 2021 changed everything.” The memoir recounts personal and difficult experiences, including alleged sexual harassment, returning to work shortly after her mother’s funeral and work-induced migraines.

“Life Is Like That Sometimes” by Khaya Dlanga

“Life Is Like That Sometimes” is a memoir and collection of autobiographical essays by author Khaya Dlanga. The book reflects on personal experiences, love, loss and identity, drawing readers into stories that shaped his life.

Dlanga shares memories from his childhood in the Eastern Cape, as well as adult experiences, including the passing of his mother and his brother’s suicide.

Through storytelling, he explores life’s unpredictability and the process of personal growth.

Reviewers highlight Dlanga’s ability to balance humour with vulnerability, making difficult topics approachable and offering readers comfort in the shared challenges of life.