Tommy Dorfman’s journey since starring in 13 Reasons Why continues to capture attention, and 2025 has brought fresh insight and new milestones to her story. This year, Dorfman released her highly anticipated memoir, Maybe This Will Save Me, offering a candid look at the impact of her breakout role and the personal evolution that followed. As the world revisits the legacy of 13 Reasons Why, Dorfman stands at the forefront—reflecting, redefining, and inspiring.
Tommy Dorfman 13 Reasons Why: Recent Headlines and Memoir Revelations
In May 2025, Tommy Dorfman made headlines with the release of her memoir, Maybe This Will Save Me. The book delves into her experience as Ryan Shaver on 13 Reasons Why, a role she landed at age 24. Dorfman opens up about the whirlwind of instant fame, the challenges of being thrust into the spotlight, and how the Netflix series changed her life. She recalls feeling unprepared for the massive success of the show, which ran from 2017 to 2020 and became a cultural touchstone for its unflinching portrayal of teen mental health and suicide.
Dorfman’s reflections are raw and relatable. She describes moments of anxiety—like being swarmed by fans on a New York subway—and the sense of vulnerability that came with losing her anonymity. Yet, with time and perspective, she has embraced public attention, now seeing it as a unique opportunity to connect with those impacted by her work.
Her memoir also reveals personal stories, including a brief romance with co-star Brandon Flynn, and details her journey of self-discovery and coming out as transgender after the series ended. Dorfman shares that she now looks back at her character and sees “a girl trapped,” underscoring how her role intersected with her own evolving identity.
Navigating Fame After 13 Reasons Why
The impact of 13 Reasons Why on Tommy Dorfman’s life cannot be overstated. The show’s runaway success brought sudden fame, but also new pressures. In recent interviews, Dorfman has spoken about the advice she would give her younger self: “Just don’t take it so seriously. It’s not real. It’s seasonal. It comes in waves. It ebbs and flows.” She admits that, at the time, she felt scared and unprepared—without media training or a roadmap for handling such visibility.
Dorfman’s perspective today is markedly different. She’s learned to value the connections she makes with fans and to approach fame with gratitude rather than fear. She encourages others in the industry to not get too caught up in the moment, reminding herself and her peers that fame is fleeting and should be enjoyed, not endured.
Key Takeaways from Tommy Dorfman’s Reflections
- 13 Reasons Why catapulted Dorfman to international fame at 24.
- She initially struggled with the pressures and lack of privacy that came with success.
- Her memoir, released in May 2025, details these experiences and her personal growth.
- Dorfman now embraces fan interactions and sees fame as a gift, not a burden.
Tommy Dorfman 13 Reasons Why: Life After the Series
Since 13 Reasons Why, Tommy Dorfman has expanded her creative horizons. She made her Broadway debut in 2024’s Romeo and Juliet and appeared in Lena Dunham’s 2022 film Sharp Stick. Dorfman has also taken on roles behind the scenes, developing and producing new projects, with several announcements expected in the coming months.
Her career is flourishing, and she expresses contentment with her current trajectory. Dorfman says she knows what she’s working on for the next year, a rare and welcome certainty in the entertainment industry. She continues to use her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility and mental health awareness, drawing from her own experiences to inspire and support others.
Tommy Dorfman’s Post-Show Achievements
- Published memoir Maybe This Will Save Me in May 2025
- Broadway debut in Romeo and Juliet (2024)
- Starred in Sharp Stick (2022)
- Active in developing and producing new creative projects
- Vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health
The Ongoing Influence of Tommy Dorfman and 13 Reasons Why
Tommy Dorfman’s association with 13 Reasons Why remains a defining chapter, but it is far from the whole story. Her willingness to share her struggles and triumphs has resonated with fans and industry peers alike. Dorfman’s journey from a young actor grappling with sudden fame to a confident, outspoken creator and advocate is both inspiring and instructive.
As she continues to break new ground—on stage, on screen, and in print—Dorfman’s story is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the power of storytelling. Her reflections on 13 Reasons Why offer valuable lessons about fame, identity, and the importance of staying true to oneself, even when the world is watching.
Are you inspired by Tommy Dorfman’s journey? Share your thoughts or favorite moments from 13 Reasons Why in the comments, and don’t forget to check out her new memoir for a deeper look into her remarkable story.