Jesse Metcalfe Admits He Hasn’t Read Scheana Shay’s ‘My Good Side’ Memoir Despite Positive Mentions

Hollywood actor Jesse Metcalfe finds himself back in the spotlight after the release of Scheana Shay’s memoir *My Good Side*, in which the Vanderpump Rules star reflects fondly on their brief relationship nearly two decades ago. Metcalfe, known for roles in *Desperate Housewives* and *John Tucker Must Die*, revealed during recent media appearances that he has not yet read the memoir, having only “just become aware” of the depth of her recollections. He said he appreciated that Shay “spoke highly of me,” calling that sentiment “nice,” though he admitted that he tried to keep her memoir out of earshot from his current girlfriend ([turn0news17]:[oaicite:0]{index=0}).

On Tori Spelling’s podcast *misSPELLING*, Metcalfe reacted publicly for the first time, saying Shay’s glowing memory of him was unexpected but kind. “I know. She spoke highly of me, which was nice,” he said, adding that their time together, although brief, was meaningful at the moment.

The actor further explained he only recently realized some of the details she shared in the memoir—details he had not followed closely until prompted by media conversation ([turn0news17]:[oaicite:1]{index=1}). Metcalfe gave a timeline of their romance, dating back to 2007, shortly after completing rehab for alcohol issues. Shay writes in the memoir that their early outings included attending the *Cloverfield* premiere on his first date post-rehab and celebrating her 22nd birthday over a sober dinner, a gesture Shay recalls as supportive of Metcalfe’s recovery journey.

He confirmed those memories ring true: “We were dating … it was pretty brief, but we were seeing each other on a regular basis” ([turn0news17]:[oaicite:2]{index=2}). In *My Good Side*, Shay characterizes Metcalfe as the quintessential romantic lead—“the sexy gardener from *Desperate Housewives*”—and described tender moments like him serenading her with *‘Hey There Delilah’* after dinners at his parents’ house. She describes living what she calls a “real‑life fantasy” with someone she had admired on screen for years ([turn0search12]:[oaicite:3]{index=3}).

Yet Metcalfe stresses that he’s only catching up with these portrayals now, having not engaged with the memoir prior to being asked about it. He joked that although the mention made him nostalgic, he hoped his dating past with Shay would not be what he is most remembered for. “Hopefully that’s not the most relevant thing about me,” he said, adding that he has “fond memories of that time,” and that he is proud of Shay’s success.

He called her “a great girl” and voiced genuine admiration for her accomplishments ([turn0news17]:[oaicite:4]{index=4}). The memoir also details Shay’s broader experiences and relationships with other celebrities, including names like John Mayer, Eddie Cibrian, Adrian Grenier, and others, as part of a candid reflection on early Hollywood years. Metcalfe indicated awareness that he was one of many figures she referenced—and noted he initially tried to keep mention of the memoir away from his partner, Helene Immel, who was listening to the podcast ([turn0search11]:[oaicite:5]{index=5}).

The context of their romance, Shay writes, began shortly after Metcalfe’s rehab stint in March 2007. Her description in the book includes choosing not to drink during celebrations such as her birthday, as a gesture of solidarity with him. These details underscore her view of that period as formative and deeply personal.

Metcalfe confirmed the general outline, but expressed surprise at the retrospective detail, partly because he lacked visibility into her project until it gained media attention ([turn0search10]:[oaicite:6]{index=6}). Entertainment outlets including *People* and *Reality Tea* captured his remarks, noting his gracious tone and lighthearted acknowledgment that although the relationship faded, the memories remain warm. He told media he appreciated Shay’s kind portrayal and seemed curious to learn more about her perspective—though he had not yet picked up the book himself.

Meanwhile, media coverage of *My Good Side* highlights Shay’s healing-centered motivations. She chronicles personal betrayals, including a secret affair by her husband Brock Davies during pregnancy, which she withheld from *Vanderpump Rules* filming to process privately. The memoir also explores her early Hollywood days, lawsuits, reality TV experiences, and attempts to reclaim agency and authenticity amid chaos ([turn0news21]:[oaicite:7]{index=7}).

Although plotlines around other romantic liaisons and personal trauma dominate headlines, Metcalfe’s mention in the memoir adds an unexpected layer of reflection for both parties. Sources note that his response—cordial, polite, and rooted in gratitude—stands in contrast to other public reactions from personalities inadvertently featured in *My Good Side*. Notably, Brock Davies has already addressed his portrayal and shared perspective on events in his own forum—certainly extending the ripple effect of Shay’s storytelling ([turn0search7]:[oaicite:8]{index=8}).

For Metcalfe, who keeps a relatively low public profile, the attention marks a nostalgic turn in the coverage. He emphasized that although his history is mentioned, he remains focused on current work and personal life. His reluctance to revisit old memories through the book is clear: he hasn't read it, only 'became aware,' and intends to see the full narrative privately should he ever choose to engage.

Observers note this balanced distance: he doesn’t dismiss Shay’s recollections, but also refuses to let the past define him. Ultimately, Metcalfe comes across as respectful of Shay’s storytelling while asserting his own boundaries—gracious that she spoke highly of him, but unconvinced that the connection from nearly twenty years ago ought to be central to his public persona now. It’s a modern example of what memoirs can provoke—not dramatic conflict, but thoughtful recognition of how personal memories intersect with public attention.