NEED TO KNOW
- A memoir by Simon Patterson is set to be announced, with a publishing deal imminent.
- He lost his parents and aunt in the 2023 poisoned lunch case involving Erin Patterson.
- The book will be released after ongoing legal appeals are resolved.
Simon Patterson is preparing to share his side of one of Australia’s most shocking criminal cases, with news he is working on a memoir following the conviction of his estranged wife, Erin Patterson.
He has largely remained silent since the case unfolded, and lost his parents, Don and Gail Patterson, and his aunt, Heather Wilkinson, after they were poisoned at a lunch in regional Victoria in July 2023.
Erin was later found guilty of their murders, as well as the attempted murder of Heather’s husband, Ian Wilkinson, who survived the deadly meal.
Now, Simon’s media manager, Jessica O’Donnell, says a book deal is in place, with a formal announcement expected in the coming weeks.
The memoir will focus on what she described as his “recovery phase” and mark the first time Simon has spoken publicly outside of court.
“Simon won’t be communicating at any point in time,” she said in a statement when news of the book was first announced.
“He will allow his story to be told through the book, and that’s how he wants his words to be heard.”
While details of the memoir remain tightly guarded, Jessica also confirmed the release will likely be delayed due to ongoing legal proceedings.
Erin, 50, is currently serving a life sentence with a non-parole period of 33 years and is appealing her conviction.
At the same time, prosecutors are also appealing the sentence, arguing it is inadequate.
The case drew intense global attention, sparking documentaries, podcasts, and widespread media coverage.
But despite the spotlight, Simon has kept a low profile, only speaking during court proceedings.
During the trial, he alleged he had previously been poisoned by his estranged wife on multiple occasions, claims that were not included in the case heard by the jury.
Those allegations are expected to be explored further in the memoir, offering readers new insight into his experience.
O’Donnell said there is strong public interest in Simon’s perspective, particularly given his proximity to the events and the personal toll of the tragedy.
Further details, including the publisher and release timeline, are expected to be revealed soon, with the announcement described as “imminent”.
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