Drew Barrymore Then and Now

Drew Barrymore Then

Drew Barrymore, born on February 22, 1975, was destined for movie stardom, being a member of the illustrious Barrymore family, one of the most renowned acting dynasties in show business history. 

Her paternal grandfather, John Barrymore, was a legendary actor whose acclaim and influence extended across the early 20th century. 

The Barrymore family’s contribution to the entertainment industry is vast, with numerous relatives both preceding and following John making significant marks in film and theater. 

Drew’s connections in Hollywood extend beyond her immediate family; her godparents include iconic figures such as director Steven Spielberg and actress Sophia Loren, indicating her deep-rooted ties to cinematic royalty from a very young age.

Despite her privileged beginnings, Drew Barrymore’s childhood was notoriously turbulent. 

She was exposed to the darker sides of fame and fortune very early on, attending parties and experimenting with drugs and alcohol before most children her age were even considering high school. 

This early exposure led to her first stint in rehab at just 13 years old. 

By 15, Drew sought legal emancipation from her parents, a move that marked both her independence and the depths of her personal struggles.

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The legal emancipation allowed her to take control of her own life and career, a significant step for someone so young.

These early experiences shaped Barrymore’s resilience and determination. 

Despite the hardships, she managed to reinvent herself, transitioning from a troubled child star to a respected actress and producer. 

Her journey through personal challenges to professional success has made her a symbol of perseverance in Hollywood.

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Drew Barrymore’s story is one of overcoming adversity, leveraging her family legacy while forging her own path in the entertainment industry. 

Her ability to navigate the complexities of fame, both its privileges and its pitfalls, has contributed to her enduring appeal and success in show business.

Drew Barrymore Acting Career

Drew Barrymore’s acting career commenced almost from infancy, with her memorable audition for a dog food commercial at just 11 months old. 

Legend has it that when she was nipped by a dog during the audition, instead of crying, she laughed, securing her the job.

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Her earliest feature film appearance came in 1980’s “Altered States,” but it was her role as Gertie in Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” in 1982 that catapulted her to international fame. 

This breakout role showcased her natural talent and charisma, establishing her as one of Hollywood’s most promising child actors.

Throughout the 1980s, Barrymore continued to impress audiences with her performances in a variety of films. 

She starred in “Firestarter” (1984), “Irreconcilable Differences” (1984), and “Cat’s Eye” (1985), showcasing her versatility and range as an actress.

Despite her early success, Barrymore’s personal life was tumultuous, marked by struggles with substance abuse and legal emancipation from her parents.

The 1990s marked a significant turning point in Barrymore’s career as she transitioned from child actor to adult roles, actively working to shed her earlier image. 

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She took on more mature teenage roles, notably in “Poison Ivy” (1992) and the erotic thriller “Doppelganger” (1993), demonstrating her willingness to explore diverse characters and genres. 

Her performance in “The Wedding Singer” (1998) alongside Adam Sandler became one of her most beloved roles of the decade, showcasing her comedic talent and charm.

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Entering the 2000s, Barrymore continued to solidify her status as a leading actress with roles in major blockbusters like “Charlie’s Angels” (2000) and its sequel “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” (2003). 

Alongside big-budget productions, she also starred in smaller independent films such as “Donnie Darko” and “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind,” showcasing her range and willingness to take on unconventional projects.

In 2009, Barrymore made her feature directorial debut with “Whip It,” a coming-of-age roller derby drama.

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She demonstrated her talent behind the camera as well as in front of it. 

Throughout her career, Barrymore has shown a knack for balancing mainstream success with more niche and artistic endeavors.

In recent years, Barrymore transitioned to television with her starring role in the Netflix original series “Santa Clarita Diet,” further showcasing her versatility as an actress. 

In 2021, she announced an indefinite hiatus from acting and ventured into writing, co-authoring the New York Times bestseller “Rebel Homemaker,” signaling yet another chapter in her multifaceted career.

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Drew Barrymore’s journey in the entertainment industry reflects her resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to her craft.

Drew Barrymore Movies

• Altered States (1980) 
• E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) 
• Firestarter (1984) 
• Irreconcilable Differences (1984) 
• Cat’s Eye (1985) 
• Far from Home (1990) 
• Poison Ivy (1992) 
• Guncrazy (1992) 
• Waxwork II: Lost in Time (1992) 
• No Place to Hide (1993) 
• Doppelganger (1993)
• The Amy Fisher Story (1993) 
• Wayne’s World 2 (1993)
• Inside the Goldmine (1994) 
• Bad Girls (1994) 
• Boys on the Side (1995) 
• Mad Love (1995)
• Batman Forever (1995) 
• Everyone Says I Love You (1996) 
• Scream (1996) 
• The Wedding Singer (1998)
• Home Fries (1998) 
• Ever After (1998) 
• Never Been Kissed (1999) 
• Skipped Parts (2000) 
• Titan A.E. (2000) – Akima (voice)
• Charlie’s Angels (2000) 
• Riding in Cars with Boys (2001)
• Freddy Got Fingered (2001) 
• Donnie Darko (2001) 
• Confessions of a Dangerous Mind (2002) 
• Duplex (2003) 
• Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003) 
• 50 First Dates (2004) 
• Fever Pitch (2005) 
• Curious George (2006) 
• Lucky You (2007)
• Music and Lyrics (2007)
• Lions for Lambs (2007) 
• Grey Gardens (2009)
• He’s Just Not That Into You (2009) 
• Everybody’s Fine (2009)
• Going the Distance (2010)
• Big Miracle (2012) 
• Blended (2014) 
• Miss You Already (2015)
• Pixels (2015) 
• Scream (2015)
• The Angry Birds Movie 2 (2019) – Matilda (voice)
• The Stand In (2020) – Candy Black
• The Tomorrow War (2021) 
• A Castle for Christmas (2021) 
• Scream (2022) 
• Scream VI (2023)

Drew Barrymore’s Personal Life

Drew Barrymore’s personal life has been marked by both highs and lows, beginning with her childhood in the spotlight. 

At just 19 years old, she experienced her first marriage to Los Angeles bar owner Jeremy Thomas, which lasted for a mere two months in 1994. 

This early union was short-lived, reflecting the tumultuous nature of Barrymore’s life during that period.

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However, it also marked her desire for companionship and stability despite her young age.

In 1999, Barrymore found love again when she met comedian Tom Green. 

They married the following year and even made cameo appearances in each other’s films, showcasing their mutual support. 

However, their marriage was brief and ended in divorce in 2002. 

Despite their creative collaborations and apparent chemistry, the relationship ultimately couldn’t withstand the challenges they faced.

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In 2012, Barrymore embarked on a new chapter of her personal life when she married art consultant Will Kopelman. 

They welcomed two daughters together during their marriage, which seemed to symbolize a period of stability and happiness for Barrymore. 

However, they eventually divorced in 2016, highlighting the complexities of maintaining relationships in the public eye and the unpredictable nature of love and marriage.

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Despite the ups and downs, Barrymore has remained resilient and focused on her family, career, and personal growth. 

Her experiences have shaped her into a stronger and more introspective individual, allowing her to navigate the complexities of fame and relationships with grace and determination.

Additionally, Barrymore’s influence extends beyond the entertainment industry. 

She is the godmother of Frances Bean Cobain, the daughter of music icons Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love. 

This connection reflects Barrymore’s presence in pop culture and her relationships within influential circles, further cementing her status as a cultural icon.

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Barrymore’s impact is also felt in music, as she has been the inspiration for not just one but two popular songs: one by SZA and another by rapper Bryce Vine.

These references underscore her enduring influence and widespread recognition across different art forms and generations. 

Despite the challenges she’s faced, Drew Barrymore’s resilience, talent, and charisma continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

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Drew Barrymore Now

At 49 years old, Drew Barrymore has established herself as a multi-talented figure in the entertainment industry. 

As a member of the renowned Barrymore family, Drew has made significant contributions to film and television throughout her career. 

Known for her versatility, she has excelled as an actress, producer, talk show host, and author.

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Barrymore’s talent has garnered her numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and nominations for nine Emmy Awards and a British Academy Film Award. 

Her versatility and ability to inhabit diverse roles have solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s most beloved and respected figures.

In addition to her successful acting career, Drew Barrymore has also ventured into other areas of the entertainment industry.

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She has taken on roles as a director and producer, showcasing her skills behind the camera as well. 

Barrymore’s net worth, estimated at $85 million, reflects her longstanding and prosperous career in show business. 

Her ability to navigate various aspects of the industry speaks to her business acumen and creative vision.

Recently, in 2023, Drew Barrymore starred in “Scream VI,” the latest installment of the iconic horror franchise.

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Barrymore’s involvement in such a high-profile project underscores her enduring relevance and continued impact on popular culture. 

Despite her decades-long career, she continues to challenge herself with new and exciting projects, maintaining her status as a versatile and dynamic actress.

Beyond her work in entertainment, Drew Barrymore has also taken on roles outside of acting. 

As of January 2024, she serves as the Chief Gifting Officer for Etsy, an online marketplace known for its handmade and vintage items.

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This role reflects Barrymore’s entrepreneurial spirit and her passion for creativity and craftsmanship.

Drew Barrymore’s multifaceted career and diverse interests have made her a beloved and respected figure in Hollywood and beyond. 

Her contributions to film, television, and business underscore her enduring influence and status as an icon in the entertainment industry.