On Role Models, the new memoir from legendary American filmmaker, actor, and writer John Waters, author Augusten Burroughs comments, "How did somebody from a quiet Baltimore neighborhood grow up to become the outlandish, brilliant, and insane John Waters? Two words: Johnny Mathis." In addition to the cult films he is famous for including Hairspray, Pink Flamingos, and Polyester, Waters has published two previous books, Shock Value and Crackpot, a collection of essays. A window into one of the most unique and entertaining artists of our time, Role Models is a self-portrait told through intimate descriptions of the people who have both inspired and subverted him, including playwright Tennessee Williams, atheist leader Madalyn Murray O’Hair, the insane martyr Saint Catherine of Siena, and of course, singer Johnny Mathis.

Interviewed by Gary Kramer.