Collateral Stardust: Chasing Warren Beatty and Other Foolish Things

“Nash reflects on wild times in Hollywood and her relationship with Warren Beatty in this rollicking memoir. ... The author’s skill as a comedian is on full display here—she peppers every page with perfectly timed punchlines that communicate her quirky personality. ... Her consistent, irreverent voice makes the memoir delightful. ... A dazzling kiss-and-tell that brings vintage Hollywood to life.” — Kirkus Starred Review

Born in Hollywood, and raised by a radical, Black Panther-supporting mother and a charismatic trombone-playing father, Nikki Nash grew up surrounded by musicians, actors, conspiracy theorists, political fundraisers, jazz jams, and lots of alcohol-fueled parties. At thirteen she was lonely, longing for attention, and desperate to find something to fill the void. It wasn't a pony. It was Warren Beatty. She made a secret vow to find him and have him in her life forever. She wasn't naive and this wasn't a fantasy; she had a solid plan. And the first step was to grow up.

Five years later, Nash—now eighteen—embarks on the next step of her plan. After quitting college, she learns that Warren Beatty—who lives at the Beverly Hills Hotel—frequents a nearby restaurant. She gets a hostess job there and waits. In the meantime, she has endless strange encounters with stalkers, sociopaths, actors, agents, mobsters, and producers. It takes a year-and-a-half, but on a cold Sunday night, after breaking her finger in a judo class and looking her worst dirty hair pulled back, no make-up, her broken finger in a glass of ice—Warren Beatty walks through the door.

"Written with humor, vulnerability, and verve, this satisfies.” — Publishers Weekly

"Dotted with star-studded moments, Nash’s honest reflections steal the spotlight.” — Booklist

“Perfection oozes out at every chance it gets. Best Seller!” — Robert Hays, actor

“Collateral Stardust is a hilarious and brave trek through decades of Hollywood with surprises at every turn.” — Brian Kiley, Emmy-winning comedy writer