logo
Getty Images
Getty Images

Stephen King, 73, Recalls Late Mom with Untold Story about Publishing His Iconic Book 'Carrie'

Lois Oladejo
Jun 21, 2021
05:00 A.M.

Iconic author Stephen King looked back at an intricate detail in his career as he talked about his breakthrough novel and a significant event connected to his late mom.

Advertisement

Almost 50 years ago, A-list author Stephen King made his debut in horror writing with "Carrie," and his career experienced spiral progress, never to remain underground again.

However, there were some details that Stephen, now 73, would forever hold dear and close to his heart. In a recent "CBS Sunday Morning" interview, the aged writer opened up about his mom's influence on his career.

Stephen King reads from his new fiction novel "11/22/63: A Novel" at The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum on November 7, 2011 in Boston, Massachusetts. | Photo: Getty Images

Stephen King reads from his new fiction novel "11/22/63: A Novel" at The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum on November 7, 2011 in Boston, Massachusetts. | Photo: Getty Images

The star noted that it was the year he had just completed his first novel, "Carrie," and although the hardcover advance did not make much impact, the paperback swooped in with a huge sum of money.

He calculated that at the time, the profit summed at $400,000. Stephen recalled that his mother, Nellie Ruth Pillsbury King, had cancer at the start of his career.

Advertisement

The legendary writer noted that while Nellie experienced "excruciating pain," she continued fending for their family. After Stephen made money off his first book, he and his brother had a little talk.

They decided it was time for her to quit working and take some time off for herself. The boys headed to the Pineland facility, where she worked to break the news of his success.

The "It" author recalled seeing her in a green rayon uniform working tirelessly and totally stoned. The star remembered saying, "Mom, you're done. There's enough to take care of you now because the book sold for a lot of money, and you can go home."

Advertisement

Owen recently collaborated with Stephen for the book "Sleeping Beauties."

Stephen shared that his mom was at a loss for words as she put her hands over her face. Nellie would later die at 59 in 1973, but she did watch her son attain the beginning of greatness.

"Carrie" sold millions of copies around the globe, and in 1976, it was made into a movie, followed by sequels and a series. Stephen's books continued the book-to-film adaptation since then.

Advertisement

These days, the revered author's legacy seems to be living on in his grown sons, Joe "Hill" and Owen King. While Joe ventured into horror like his dad, Owen opted for a less graphic genre.

Novelist Joe adopted the last name "Hill" instead of his famous surname and has been doing well. On the other hand, Owen recently collaborated with Stephen for the book "Sleeping Beauties."

While it is safe to say that Stephen has stamped his place among the greats, he enjoys spontaneity as well. The star once shared how his train of thoughts worked sometimes.

Stephen has googled himself on several occasions. He would see writings about the man he was and other Stephen Kings around the world, which fascinates him.

Advertisement
info
Please fill in your e-mail so we can share with you our top stories!
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy
Advertisement
Related posts

Cara Whitney Is a Book Author & Mom of Larry the Cable Guy's Two Kids

December 01, 2023

These 5 Girls Are '90s Idols and One of Whom Is Married to a Famous Soccer Player – Quiz

December 20, 2023

Jimmy Deen Is Paula Deen's First Husband of 27 Years — More About Their Marriage

January 18, 2024

Diane Addonizio Became Howie Long's Wife in 1982 & Is a Mother of 3

January 11, 2024

Simone Biles in $120 Wedding Dress Blasted for Unkempt Hair – Olympic Star 'Hungry' During Childhood Responds

December 08, 2023

TV Superstar Met This Man in Church & Fell in Love – He Saved Her as She Contemplated Jumping off Balcony

March 05, 2024

Inside Jamie Lee Curtis’ 100-Year-Old House She Bought in 1992 — She Lives There with Her Husband

December 19, 2023

Mickey Middleton Is Bryan Cranston’s Ex-wife Who Is Also an Author

December 15, 2023

Photos of How Gray-Haired Carrie Underwood Might Look as a 70-Year-Old Living on a Farm

December 06, 2023

My Son's Wedding Turned out to Be a Nightmare after the Maid-of-Honor's Speech

February 29, 2024

Kennedy Owen: More about Gary Owen's Daughter Who Ended All Contact with Her Father

November 29, 2023

Prince Harry Seen Arriving at Clarence House after King Charles' Cancer Announcement — 'The Diagnosis Is More Serious,' Fans Worry

February 07, 2024

Grandfather Isn't Allowed inside the Club — Story of the Day

December 26, 2023

Old Man Isn't Allowed inside the Club — Story of the Day

December 04, 2023