'I'm the funniest writer I know...'

Mel Brooks is writing his memoirs.

The comic has just signed a deal with HarperEntertainment to publish an account of his five decades in showbusiness - from his work on Sid Caesar's Show Of Shows to the hit Broadway version of The Producers.

The autobiography, described as an 'anecdotal memoir', will be published next year, but the financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.

Executive editor Mauro DiPreta said: "You have to jump on an opportunity to publish a comedy genius like this."

Brooks, 76, modestly added: ''I have always been a huge admirer of my own work.

"I'm one of the funniest and most entertaining writers I know. And I just can't wait to read my book."

Published: 16 Jan 2003