Jane Lynch's life full of "Happy Accidents"

(CBS/AP) If your only impressions of actress Jane Lynch come from the wickedly conniving Sue Sylvester on "Glee," you'll be surprised by her new memoir "Happy Accidents," which hit store shelves this week.

Pictures: Jane Lynch
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In it, she recalls the struggles and triumphs on her road to stardom. It covers career lows, like hawking products on shopping networks, and personal lows, like alcoholism and confronting her sexuality. But it always comes framed in optimism and a sense of serendipity. Hence, the title.

The 51-year-old actress, who will be hosting Sunday's Emmy Awards, honed her craft in Chicago's Steppenwolf Theatre Company and The Second City comedy troupe. She has appeared in such movies as "A Mighty Wind," where she did her own singing, "The 40-Year-Old Virgin," and "Role Models."

In addition to fame, her "Glee" role has brought her a Golden Globe and an Emmy.

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In May of 2010, Lynch married Dr. Lara Embry, a clinical psychologist in west central Florida and professor of psychology at New College in Sarasota. Both are active in the LGBT community.