“The Housemaid” author Frieda McFadden kept her real identity secret – until now. (Exclusive) https://t.co/pmYS6Nja53
— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) April 9, 2026
Bestelling author Frieda McFadden has been using a pseudonym and normally goes out in public in a wig and glasses but she has finally revealed her real name: Sara Cohan, a doctor who treats brain disorders. She did not want her writing to interfere with her professional life. In 2022 her book The Housemaid blew up, but she has been publishing multiple books per year for years. As of late 2023 she is no longer working full time as a doctor.
Why the reveal now? “I’m at a point in my career when I’m tired of this being a secret. I’m tired of people debating if I’m a real person or if I’m three men. I am a real person and I have a real identity and I don’t have anything to hide.”
The Housemaid movie was a success and they are making a sequel, her book The Teacher is also being adapted into a film by Apple.
ONTD, what would your ideal secret job on top of your regular job? Bestselling author would be nice.
