Drew Barrymore, American actress, director, producer, and screenwriter

Few names resonate in Hollywood quite like Drew Barrymore, an American actress, director, producer, and acclaimed talk show host whose career spans decades and genres. Born on February 22, 1975, Barrymore carries a storied legacy as a member of the venerable Barrymore acting family, a lineage steeped in theatrical and cinematic history. Her journey through the entertainment industry is marked by remarkable resilience and a unique ability to reinvent herself, earning her numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award, alongside nominations for a British Academy Film Award and five Emmy Awards. Her enduring impact was further cemented with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2004.

From Child Star to Screen Icon: An Unforgettable Acting Career

Drew Barrymore first captured the hearts of audiences worldwide as a child actress, achieving unprecedented fame with her unforgettable role as Gertie in Steven Spielberg’s 1982 cinematic masterpiece, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. This role not only launched her into superstardom but also became a cultural touchstone, defining a generation's understanding of childhood wonder. Following this early triumph, Barrymore's highly publicized childhood was unfortunately marked by struggles with drug and alcohol abuse, a candidly documented period she later explored in her autobiography, Little Girl Lost. Her ability to navigate these challenges and emerge stronger is a testament to her enduring spirit.

The 1990s and 2000s saw Drew Barrymore solidify her status as a versatile and beloved leading lady, starring in a string of successful films that showcased her range from romantic comedies to dramatic thrillers. She charmed audiences in films like the beloved rom-com Never Been Kissed and became an action hero in the hugely popular Charlie's Angels and its sequel, Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle, which she also helped produce. Her diverse filmography from this era includes critically acclaimed roles in Poison Ivy, Boys on the Side, and Mad Love, alongside memorable appearances in blockbusters like Batman Forever and the iconic horror film Scream. Barrymore also enchanted viewers in the modern fairytale Ever After: A Cinderella Story, proving her ability to carry both comedic and dramatic narratives with grace.

A notable and much-loved aspect of her career has been her frequent collaborations with actor Adam Sandler, forming a beloved on-screen duo in romantic comedies such as The Wedding Singer, 50 First Dates, and Blended. These films leveraged their undeniable chemistry, becoming box office successes and fan favorites. Her other significant film roles include Stephen King's Firestarter, the cult classic Donnie Darko, Riding in Cars with Boys, George Clooney’s directorial debut Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, the heartfelt romantic comedy Music and Lyrics, Going the Distance, Big Miracle, and the poignant drama Miss You Already. In 2009, Drew Barrymore made her acclaimed directorial debut with the sports comedy Whip It, further expanding her creative reach behind the camera.

Critical Acclaim and Television Success

Beyond her extensive film career, Drew Barrymore has also garnered significant critical attention for her work in television. She earned both a Screen Actors Guild Award and a Golden Globe Award for her powerful portrayal of Edith Bouvier Beale in the HBO film Grey Gardens, a role that showcased her profound dramatic capabilities. More recently, she delighted audiences with her starring role in the Netflix horror-comedy series Santa Clarita Diet, which garnered a dedicated following for its unique blend of humor and gore.

Currently, Drew Barrymore brings her infectious warmth and authentic personality to daytime television as the host of her wildly successful syndicated talk show, The Drew Barrymore Show. This venture allows her to connect with audiences on a daily basis, sharing her unique perspective on life, culture, and entertainment, further cementing her status as a versatile media personality.

Entrepreneurial Spirit: Flower Films and Beyond

Drew Barrymore’s influence extends far beyond her on-screen presence into the world of business and production. She is the visionary founder of the successful production company Flower Films, which has been instrumental in bringing many of her projects to fruition, including several films in which she starred, such as the Charlie's Angels franchise and Never Been Kissed. This move demonstrated her keen business acumen and desire for creative control.

In 2013, Barrymore launched a comprehensive range of cosmetics under the iconic Flower banner, which has since blossomed into a full lifestyle brand. Starting with high-quality make-up, the Flower line has expanded to include perfumes and eyewear, reflecting her personal style and commitment to accessible beauty. Her entrepreneurial spirit doesn't stop there; her other successful business ventures encompass a sophisticated range of wines and a contemporary clothing line. Additionally, in 2015, E. P. Dutton published Wildflower, a collection of Barrymore's candid and charming autobiographical essays, offering readers another intimate glimpse into her extraordinary life.

Frequently Asked Questions about Drew Barrymore

Who is Drew Barrymore?

Drew Barrymore is an acclaimed American actress, director, producer, and talk show host, known for her prolific career that began as a child star and evolved into a successful adult filmography, television presence, and entrepreneurial endeavors.

When did Drew Barrymore debut in acting?

Drew Barrymore made her memorable acting debut at a very young age, most famously in the iconic 1982 film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.

What movies and TV shows is Drew Barrymore famous for?

She is famous for a wide array of roles, including Gertie in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Josie Geller in Never Been Kissed, Dylan Sanders in Charlie's Angels, and her collaborations with Adam Sandler in films like The Wedding Singer and 50 First Dates. On television, she starred in Santa Clarita Diet and currently hosts The Drew Barrymore Show.

What is Flower Films?

Flower Films is the successful production company founded by Drew Barrymore, responsible for producing many of her popular films and other projects, allowing her greater creative control in Hollywood.

What awards has Drew Barrymore won?

Drew Barrymore is the recipient of a Golden Globe Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award, both for her role in Grey Gardens. She also has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.