Drew Barrymore is a name that has become synonymous with resilience, talent, and reinvention in Hollywood. A child star who rose to fame at a very young age, she has since evolved into a beloved actress, producer, director, talk show host, and entrepreneur. Known for her charismatic smile, boundless energy, and candid personality, Drew has managed to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry for decades. But one of the most common questions people ask about her today is, how old is Drew Barrymore? This article will explore not only her age but also her remarkable journey through Hollywood, from her early stardom to her current roles in the industry.
Let’s take a closer look at Drew Barrymore’s life, her age, and her incredible accomplishments.
Drew Barrymore Profile and Biography
| Full Name | Drew Blythe Barrymore |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 22, 1975 |
| Birthplace | Culver City, California, USA |
| Profession | Actress, Producer, Director, Talk Show Host, Entrepreneur |
| Years Active | 1978 – Present |
| Famous Roles | E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, The Wedding Singer, Charlie’s Angels, 50 First Dates |
| Current Age | 49 (as of October 2024) |
How Old is Drew Barrymore?
Drew Barrymore was born on February 22, 1975, which makes her 49 years old as of 2024. Her nearly five decades of life have been marked by both personal struggles and professional triumphs, making her one of the most relatable and resilient figures in Hollywood. Her age, however, is just one small detail in a life filled with major milestones, reinventions, and a legacy that speaks to her adaptability and strength. From her early days as a child actress to her current role as a successful talk show host, Drew Barrymore has lived a life that most people only dream of.
Early Life: Born Into Hollywood Royalty
Drew Barrymore was born into the famous Barrymore family, a dynasty of actors dating back to the early 20th century. She is the granddaughter of John Barrymore, one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation. Drew’s family legacy in Hollywood meant that she was practically born into the industry. Her first role came at the age of 11 months, in a dog food commercial, but her breakout role arrived when she was just 7 years old, starring as Gertie in Steven Spielberg’s iconic film, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.
Her early experiences in Hollywood were a double-edged sword. On one hand, they made her a household name; on the other, they exposed her to the pressures and temptations of fame at a very young age. By the time she was a teenager, Drew was struggling with addiction, leading her to enter rehab at the tender age of 13. Despite these challenges, she managed to turn her life around, an impressive feat that would set the tone for her later years in Hollywood.
Growing Up in the Limelight: Challenges and Comebacks
As Drew Barrymore entered her teens and twenties, she faced numerous personal struggles, including battles with addiction and a turbulent relationship with her mother, Jaid Barrymore. Her upbringing was far from conventional, and by the age of 15, Drew was legally emancipated from her parents. This allowed her to take control of her life, but it also came with its own set of challenges. Her rebellious phase was well-publicized, and she quickly gained a reputation as a “wild child” in Hollywood.
However, Drew’s resilience and determination to reinvent herself became her defining characteristics. She made a conscious effort to distance herself from her troubled past and worked hard to establish a successful career as an adult actress. Films like Poison Ivy (1992) and Boys on the Side (1995) showcased her acting talent and helped her transition from child star to credible Hollywood actress.
The Rom-Com Queen: Drew Barrymore in the 2000s
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Drew Barrymore truly hit her stride, becoming one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic comedy actresses. Some of her most popular roles during this period include The Wedding Singer (1998), Never Been Kissed (1999), and 50 First Dates (2004). These films not only showcased her natural charm but also cemented her status as a leading lady in Hollywood.
One of her most significant projects during this period was Charlie’s Angels (2000), in which she starred alongside Cameron Diaz and Lucy Liu. Barrymore not only starred in the film but also produced it through her production company, Flower Films. The success of Charlie’s Angels and its sequel Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003) demonstrated her talent behind the scenes as well, adding another dimension to her already impressive career.
Reinvention and Growth: Becoming a Producer and Director
By her thirties, Drew Barrymore had already experienced an entire lifetime in Hollywood. Instead of sticking solely to acting, she continued to evolve by becoming a producer and director. In 2009, she directed her first film, Whip It, a story about a young girl who finds her passion in roller derby. The film was well-received and marked the beginning of a new chapter for Drew as a filmmaker.
Flower Films, the production company she co-founded with Nancy Juvonen, has been responsible for producing some of her most notable films, including Never Been Kissed, 50 First Dates, and He’s Just Not That Into You. Through Flower Films, Drew has had the opportunity to create roles that reflect her unique perspective and sensibility, contributing to Hollywood’s evolving portrayal of women.
Entering the World of Daytime Television: The Drew Barrymore Show
In 2020, Drew Barrymore took on a new challenge by launching The Drew Barrymore Show, a daytime talk show that showcases her warmth, humor, and empathy. The show has been praised for its relatable approach, featuring celebrity interviews, lifestyle segments, and Drew’s personal insights. With her open-book personality, Drew has managed to create a show that feels authentic and welcoming, allowing her to connect with audiences in a new way.
The Drew Barrymore Show has also given Drew a platform to discuss mental health, relationships, and her own personal journey, adding depth to her public persona. The show has been a success, and its renewal for multiple seasons speaks to Drew’s ongoing appeal and ability to connect with audiences of all ages.
Personal Life: Marriage, Motherhood, and Finding Balance
Drew Barrymore’s personal life has been as eventful as her professional one. She has been married three times—first to bar owner Jeremy Thomas in 1994, then to comedian Tom Green in 2001, and finally to art consultant Will Kopelman in 2012. Her marriage to Kopelman lasted until 2016, and the couple shares two daughters, Olive and Frankie. Being a mother has been one of Drew’s most cherished roles, and she has spoken openly about the joys and challenges of motherhood.
Despite her divorces, Drew has maintained a positive relationship with her ex-husbands, especially with Kopelman, as they co-parent their daughters. Family has always been important to her, and she continues to strive for balance between her career and her personal life.
Drew Barrymore’s Legacy: More Than Just an Actress
At 49 years old, Drew Barrymore’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and reinvention. She has grown from a troubled child star into a respected actress, producer, director, and talk show host. Her career has spanned over four decades, making her one of the most enduring and beloved figures in Hollywood.
Drew’s legacy goes beyond her on-screen roles; she’s also known for her candid discussions about mental health, addiction, and self-empowerment. Her transparency has inspired countless fans, showing that it’s possible to overcome adversity and redefine oneself. She has become a role model for those who face personal struggles, proving that growth and change are always within reach.
Conclusion
In 2024, Drew Barrymore is 49 years old, but age is just a number when it comes to her achievements and impact. She has spent almost her entire life in the public eye, yet she remains relatable, inspiring, and constantly evolving. Her journey from a child star with a troubled past to a multifaceted Hollywood powerhouse is nothing short of remarkable. Drew Barrymore’s age may answer a common question, but her life story offers much more valuable insights—into resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
As she continues to take on new challenges and explore different facets of her career, Drew Barrymore remains an enduring figure in Hollywood, proving that her best years may still be ahead.
