Drew Barrymore is a name synonymous with Hollywood royalty. From her early beginnings as a child actress to her multi-faceted career as an actress, producer, director, and talk show host, Barrymore has carved out a unique and influential place in the entertainment industry.
This article explores the various aspects of Drew Barrymore’s fame, her career milestones, and the personal and professional qualities that have contributed to her enduring popularity.
Who is Drew Barrymore?
Drew Barrymore, born on February 22, 1975, in Culver City, California, is an American actress, producer, director, author, and talk show host. She hails from the illustrious Barrymore family, known for their significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Her career began at a very young age, and she quickly became a household name with her roles in iconic films.
What are Drew Barrymore’s Most Famous Movies?
Barrymore’s filmography is extensive, with notable roles in both family-friendly and adult-themed films. Some of her most famous movies include:
- E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982): Barrymore’s breakout role as Gertie, the adorable younger sister, made her a star at the age of seven.
- Never Been Kissed (1999): Barrymore starred as Josie Geller, a journalist who goes undercover at a high school.
- Charlie’s Angels (2000) and Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003): She played Dylan Sanders, one of the three female leads, and also produced the films.
- 50 First Dates (2004): A romantic comedy where she starred alongside Adam Sandler.
- Scream (1996): Though her role was brief, it was memorable and pivotal in the horror film.
Drew Barrymore’s Early Life and Career
Drew Barrymore was born into a family with a long history in acting. Her father, John Drew Barrymore, and her mother, Jaid Barrymore, were both actors. The Barrymore family has been involved in acting for generations, dating back to her great-grandparents, Maurice and Georgiana Drew Barrymore, who were both stage actors. Despite this illustrious lineage, Barrymore’s early life was tumultuous.
Breakthrough with E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
At the age of seven, Drew Barrymore was cast in “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” directed by Steven Spielberg. Her performance as Gertie captivated audiences and critics alike, and she quickly became one of the most beloved child stars of her time. The film’s success not only solidified her career but also laid the foundation for her future in Hollywood.
Challenges and Comeback
Despite her early success, Barrymore’s childhood was marred by personal struggles, including addiction. By the age of 13, she entered rehab for drug and alcohol addiction, a period she has openly discussed in interviews and her autobiography, “Little Girl Lost.” Her candidness about her struggles has been a significant part of her public persona, endearing her to many fans.
Career Resurgence
Barrymore’s career resurgence began in the mid-1990s. She made a notable comeback with her role in “Poison Ivy” (1992) and continued to choose roles that showcased her versatility as an actress. Her performance in “Boys on the Side” (1995) and the cult classic “Scream” (1996) further established her as a talented and resilient actress.
Major Career Milestones
In 1995, Barrymore co-founded Flower Films, a production company that has produced many of her films. The company’s first major hit was “Never Been Kissed” (1999), a romantic comedy that remains a fan favorite. Flower Films also produced the “Charlie’s Angels” movies, showcasing Barrymore’s ability to handle both production and acting responsibilities.
Directorial Debut
Barrymore made her directorial debut with “Whip It” (2009), a film about a young girl who finds her passion in roller derby. The film was well-received and demonstrated Barrymore’s talent behind the camera. Her directorial work added another dimension to her career and showcased her ability to tell compelling stories.
Drew Barrymore’s Impact on Television
In 2020, Drew Barrymore ventured into the world of daytime television with “The Drew Barrymore Show.” The talk show features a mix of celebrity interviews, lifestyle segments, and human-interest stories. Barrymore’s warm and approachable demeanor has made the show a hit, and it has been praised for its positive and uplifting content.
Santa Clarita Diet
From 2017 to 2019, Barrymore starred in and produced the Netflix series “Santa Clarita Diet.” The dark comedy, in which she played a real estate agent who becomes a zombie, was well-received and demonstrated her ability to handle complex and comedic roles. Her performance was lauded for its wit and energy.
Business Ventures
In 2013, Barrymore launched Flower Beauty, a cosmetics line that emphasizes affordable, high-quality, and cruelty-free products. The brand has been successful and reflects Barrymore’s personal values and commitment to empowering women through beauty.
Other Business Endeavors
Barrymore has also ventured into the wine industry with her Barrymore Wines, offering a selection of wines that reflect her taste and personality. Additionally, she has authored several books, including “Wildflower,” a collection of autobiographical essays that provide insight into her life and career.
Drew Barrymore’s Personal Life
Barrymore has been married three times and has two daughters, Olive and Frankie, with her third husband, Will Kopelman. Despite her high-profile relationships, she has managed to maintain a level of privacy regarding her personal life. She is known for her positive outlook and dedication to her family.
Philanthropy
Drew Barrymore is also known for her philanthropic efforts. She has been involved in numerous charitable organizations and causes, including supporting anti-hunger initiatives and advocating for animal rights. Her commitment to giving back has further endeared her to fans and added to her multifaceted legacy.
Awards and Recognition
Barrymore’s talent has been recognized with numerous awards and nominations. She won a Golden Globe Award for her performance in the television film “Grey Gardens” (2009) and has received accolades for her roles in both film and television.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
In 2004, Drew Barrymore received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to her enduring impact on the entertainment industry. This honor reflects her contributions as an actress, producer, and director.
Legacy and Influence
Drew Barrymore’s influence extends beyond her film and television work. She has become a cultural icon, known for her resilience, authenticity, and ability to reinvent herself. Her journey from child star to successful businesswoman and talk show host serves as an inspiration to many.
Influence on Young Actresses
Barrymore’s career has paved the way for many young actresses, demonstrating that it is possible to overcome personal struggles and achieve lasting success in Hollywood. Her openness about her challenges has provided a source of strength and inspiration for those facing similar issues.
Conclusion
Drew Barrymore’s fame is a result of her remarkable talent, resilience, and ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels. From her early breakout role in “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” to her current success as a talk show host and businesswoman, Barrymore has continually evolved and adapted to the changing landscape of the entertainment industry.
Her multifaceted career, personal growth, and philanthropic efforts have solidified her status as a beloved and influential figure in Hollywood.
Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and authenticity. As she continues to entertain and inspire, Drew Barrymore remains a shining example of what it means to navigate the complexities of fame with grace and determination.
FAQs
What is Drew Barrymore’s most famous movie?
Drew Barrymore’s most famous movie is arguably “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” where she played the role of Gertie. The film’s success and her memorable performance as a child actress made her a household name.
How Did Drew Barrymore Start Her Career?
Drew Barrymore’s career began almost as soon as she could walk. Coming from the famous Barrymore family, she was introduced to the world of acting at an early age. Her first appearance was in a dog food commercial at 11 months old. She made her film debut in 1980 with a small role in “Altered States.” However, it was her role in Steven Spielberg’s “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” that catapulted her to stardom.
What is Drew Barrymore’s Role in Television?
Apart from her success in films, Barrymore has also made significant contributions to television. In 2020, she launched “The Drew Barrymore Show,” a daytime talk show that has garnered a loyal following due to her engaging personality and ability to connect with her guests and audience. She has also produced several television projects, including the Netflix series “Santa Clarita Diet,” in which she starred.
What Other Ventures is Drew Barrymore Involved In?
Drew Barrymore is not just an actress; she is also a successful businesswoman. She founded Flower Films, a production company, in 1995. Under this banner, she has produced many of her own films and other successful projects. In addition, she launched Flower Beauty, a cosmetics line, which emphasizes affordable and cruelty-free products. Barrymore has also authored several books, sharing her life experiences and wisdom.