Drew Barrymore, an American actress, producer, director, author, and talk show host, has built an empire worth $85 million as of 2024. At 49 years old, she has overcome a tumultuous past to become one of Hollywood’s most resilient and versatile figures. From childhood stardom to entrepreneurial success, her journey is nothing short of extraordinary.
How Did Drew Barrymore Begin Her Career?
Drew Barrymore’s introduction to Hollywood was almost predestined, given her family’s deep-rooted legacy in the entertainment industry. Born on February 22, 1975, in Culver City, California, she hails from the Barrymore acting dynasty. Her first acting job came at just 11 months old in a dog food commercial. However, it was her role as Gertie in “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” (1982) that catapulted her to international fame.
Throughout the 1980s, she took on roles in films such as “Firestarter” (1984) and “Irreconcilable Differences” (1984), demonstrating remarkable talent at a young age. Unfortunately, this early success came at a cost, as she struggled with substance abuse in her early teens, eventually leading to multiple rehab stints and emancipation from her parents at 15 years old.
How Did She Revive Her Career in the 1990s?
The 1990s marked Drew Barrymore’s transition from troubled child star to serious actress. She deliberately chose edgier roles to shed her childhood image, starring in films like “Poison Ivy” (1992) and “Doppelganger” (1993).
Her resurgence was solidified with the 1996 horror hit “Scream”, where her brief but shocking role as Casey Becker became iconic. This decade also saw her star in beloved romantic comedies like “The Wedding Singer” (1998) alongside Adam Sandler and “Never Been Kissed” (1999).
What Are Her Biggest Career Achievements?
Drew Barrymore’s career expanded beyond acting as she co-founded Flower Films in 1995 with Nancy Juvonen. This production company played a major role in her career, producing some of her most successful films, including:
- “Never Been Kissed” (1999)
- “Charlie’s Angels” (2000) & “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” (2003)
- “50 First Dates” (2004)
- “Fever Pitch” (2005)
- “Donnie Darko” (2001) (as a producer)
Her directorial debut came with “Whip It” (2009), a roller derby drama that showcased her versatility in Hollywood. More recently, Barrymore starred in the Netflix series “Santa Clarita Diet” (2017-2019) alongside Timothy Olyphant, earning praise for her comedic performance.
What Is Her Current Career Focus?
In 2020, Drew Barrymore launched “The Drew Barrymore Show”, a daytime talk show that has gained widespread popularity. Known for her warm and candid interviews, she has successfully transitioned into a new phase of her career. In addition, she co-authored the cookbook “Rebel Homemaker” (2021) with chef Pilar Valdes, which became a New York Times bestseller.
How Much Did Drew Barrymore Earn in Her Career?
Barrymore was one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood, earning up to $15 million per film at the peak of her career. Some of her notable earnings include:
- “Charlie’s Angels” (2000) – $9 million
- “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” (2003) – $14 million
- “Ever After” (1998) – $3 million
- “Mad Love” (1995) – $1.5 million
- “Donnie Darko” (2001) – $500,000
Despite her massive earnings, Barrymore has also taken roles for artistic satisfaction, sometimes accepting lower paychecks for projects she was passionate about.
What Businesses Has She Launched?
Beyond acting, Barrymore has built a thriving business empire, including:
- Flower Films (Production company)
- Flower Beauty (Cosmetics line)
- Flower Eyewear (Eyewear brand)
- Drew Barrymore Flower Home (Furniture and home decor line)
- Barrymore Wines (Signature wine collection)
Her entrepreneurial ventures have contributed significantly to her net worth and cemented her status as a successful businesswoman.
What About Her Personal Life?
Drew Barrymore’s personal life has been as eventful as her career. She has been married three times:
- Jeremy Thomas (1994) – A marriage that lasted just two months.
- Tom Green (2001-2002) – The comedian and Barrymore divorced after a year.
- Will Kopelman (2012-2016) – Together, they have two daughters.
She is also the godmother of Frances Bean Cobain, the daughter of rock icons Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love.
What Real Estate Investments Has She Made?
Barrymore has been involved in several high-profile real estate deals:
- The Hamptons (2019) – Purchased a $5.5 million beachside home, listed for $8.45 million in 2024.
- Montecito, California (2010-2013) – Bought for $5.5 million, later sold for $6.35 million.
- Hollywood Hills (2018) – Sold for $16.5 million.
- Current residence – Lives in Manhattan, where she hosts her talk show.
What Is Drew Barrymore’s Legacy?
Drew Barrymore has proven to be more than just a former child star. Overcoming adversity, she has built an impressive career spanning acting, directing, producing, and entrepreneurship. Whether through her hit films, talk show, or business ventures, Barrymore remains an influential force in entertainment and beyond.
