Drew Barrymore is one of Hollywood’s most recognizable and enduring talents. From her breakout role in Steven Spielberg’s E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial to her success as an actor, producer, and talk show host, Barrymore has spent decades in the public eye with a career marked by resilience, versatility, and authenticity.
Early Stardom and Film Career
Born into the legendary Barrymore acting family, Drew Barrymore made her film debut at just five years old in Altered States (1980) but became a household name at age seven when she starred as Gertie in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) Source: Biography.
Her early fame was accompanied by significant personal challenges, including a highly publicized battle with substance use in adolescence. By age 13, Barrymore entered rehabilitation and later chronicled her experience in her memoir Little Girl Lost (1990) Source: People.
Despite these obstacles, she successfully reinvented herself in adulthood, building a diverse career spanning romantic comedies like Never Been Kissed (1999), 50 First Dates (2004), and Music and Lyrics (2007), as well as dramatic roles in films like Grey Gardens (2009) Source: Variety.
Barrymore co-founded the production company Flower Films in 1995, which produced hits like Charlie’s Angels (2000, 2003) and Donnie Darko (2001). Her production work has cemented her reputation as a successful businesswoman in addition to her acting career Source: Forbes.
Transition to Television and Talk Show Success
In 2020, Barrymore launched The Drew Barrymore Show, a daytime talk show that quickly gained attention for its friendly, personal tone and celebrity interviews. The show has featured emotional reunions, candid confessions, and heartfelt discussions, showcasing Barrymore’s openness and warmth as a host Source: CBS News.
Barrymore’s talk show has given her an opportunity to connect with viewers on a personal level. She frequently shares lessons learned from her own life, discusses parenting as a single mother, and highlights acts of kindness and community stories. Critics have noted the show’s distinctively positive, empathetic approach Source: NPR.
Personal Life: Family, Relationships, and Parenting
Barrymore’s personal life has often been covered by the media, particularly her marriages and family life. She was first married to Welsh bar owner Jeremy Thomas in 1994. The marriage lasted a few weeks Source: CNN.
Her second marriage was to comedian Tom Green in 2001. Though they appeared together in the film Freddy Got Fingered (2001), they divorced within a year Source: People.
Barrymore married art consultant Will Kopelman in 2012. The couple has two daughters, Olive and Frankie. They announced their separation in 2016 and finalized their divorce the same year. Despite the separation, both have spoken positively about co-parenting and maintaining a supportive relationship for their children Source: Today.
Openness About Identity and Sexual Orientation
In addition to discussing relationships and parenting, Barrymore has been candid about her sexual orientation in interviews. She has described herself as being attracted to both men and women, affirming that she is comfortable identifying as bisexual Source: Contact Music.
Barrymore has addressed this aspect of her identity without sensationalism, instead framing it as a natural part of who she is. In conversations on The Drew Barrymore Show, she has stressed the importance of authenticity, self-acceptance, and open-mindedness—values she hopes to share with her children and viewers alike Source: The Drew Barrymore Show.
Maintaining a Positive Public Image
Throughout her career, Barrymore has cultivated a reputation for resilience and optimism. Despite early struggles, she has remained committed to growth, balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities. She has often credited her experiences—both positive and challenging—for shaping her approach to life and work.
In interviews and on her show, Barrymore speaks about learning from past relationships, embracing forgiveness, and finding joy in unexpected places. She has expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with former partners, including Tom Green, with whom she shared an emotional reunion on-air in 2020 Source: Variety.
Philanthropy and Business Ventures
Beyond entertainment, Barrymore has pursued numerous business and philanthropic ventures. She launched Flower Beauty, a cruelty-free cosmetics brand, in 2013. The brand has expanded globally and is known for offering affordable, high-quality products Source: Allure.
Barrymore has also supported various charitable initiatives, including UNICEF, Stand Up To Cancer, and organizations promoting mental health awareness. She has spoken publicly about the importance of destigmatizing mental health struggles and ensuring access to care Source: UNICEF.
Legacy and Continued Influence
As of 2025, Drew Barrymore remains a prominent figure in entertainment, known for her sincerity, versatility, and entrepreneurial spirit. Her career offers a rare example of a child star who not only survived but thrived, reinventing herself repeatedly across decades.
Barrymore’s willingness to be vulnerable about her personal life—including her experiences with addiction, marriage, motherhood, and sexual orientation—has resonated with audiences worldwide. Her message of empathy, forgiveness, and optimism continues to shape her work, making her a compelling and relatable figure for viewers of all ages.
Conclusion
Drew Barrymore’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and authenticity. From child stardom to acclaimed producer and talk show host, she has navigated the complexities of fame while remaining true to herself. By sharing her personal journey openly, Barrymore has encouraged countless fans to embrace their own truths and face life’s challenges with courage and compassion.
References
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Biography.com: Drew Barrymore
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People Magazine
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Variety
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CBS News
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NPR
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CNN
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Today
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Contact Music
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Allure
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UNICEF
