Drew Barrymore: From Child Star to Hollywood Icon

Drew Barrymore is a name that has been a household one for several decades now. The American actress, producer, director, and entrepreneur entered the entertainment industry at a very young age and has continued to make a name for herself ever since. From her breakout role in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial to her successful production company, Flower Films, Barrymore has solidified her status as a Hollywood icon. But what is it about her that has made her so famous and beloved by audiences around the world?

The Early Years and Breakout Role

Drew Barrymore was born on February 22, 1975, in Culver City, California. She comes from a long line of actors, including her great-grandparents, grandparents, and parents, making it no surprise that she followed in their footsteps. Her career in the entertainment industry began at just 11 months old when she appeared in a dog food commercial. However, it was her role as Gertie in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial at the age of seven that catapulted her to fame.

Starring in the beloved Steven Spielberg film not only made Barrymore a child star overnight, but it also earned her critical acclaim and a Young Artist Award. She went on to star in several other films as a child, including Firestarter and Cat’s Eye, and established herself as one of the most prominent child actors of the ’80s.

The Troubled Years

As she grew older, Barrymore struggled with her fame and the pressure that came with it. She began experimenting with drugs and alcohol at a young age and entered rehab for the first time at just 13 years old. Her tumultuous teenage years were filled with legal troubles and stints in rehab as she tried to navigate her newfound fame.

Despite her struggles, Barrymore continued to book acting roles into her adulthood, including the lead in the popular romance film Never Been Kissed. However, it wasn’t until she starred in Charlie’s Angels in 2000 that her career took a turn for the better.

The Comeback and Evolution as an Actress

After the success of Charlie’s Angels, Barrymore continued to appear in hit films such as 50 First Dates and The Wedding Singer. However, she also established herself as a successful producer with her company, Flower Films. The production company has produced a range of films, including Donnie Darko and the popular Netflix series Santa Clarita Diet, in which Barrymore also stars.

Barrymore has also proven her acting abilities through a variety of roles, from romantic comedies to dark dramas. She has been praised for her performances in Grey Gardens and Everybody’s Fine, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Today, she continues to take on a variety of roles and has also expanded her career into directing and producing.

The Impact of Her Personal Life on Her Fame

In addition to her successful career, Barrymore’s personal life has also contributed to her fame. She has been married three times, the first being at the young age of 19 to bar owner Jeremy Thomas. Her second marriage to comedian Tom Green ended after just five months, and she went on to marry art consultant Will Kopelman in 2012. The couple had two daughters before their divorce in 2016.

Barrymore’s openness about her personal struggles and journey to sobriety has also endeared her to her fans and made her a relatable and inspiring figure. She has been recognized for her philanthropy work and advocacy for issues such as breast cancer awareness and ending animal cruelty.

In Conclusion

Drew Barrymore’s fame can be attributed to many factors, including her successful career as an actress and producer, her relatability and openness about her personal struggles, and her family history in the entertainment industry. She has proven that she is not just a child star, but an enduring Hollywood icon who continues to evolve and inspire audiences around the world.

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