Drew Barrymore — American actress, producer, and media entrepreneur

Early career and breakthrough

Barrymore achieved early fame as a child actor. Her breakout role came as a young girl in a major science-fiction film, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, which brought her international recognition. Her early success was followed by a turbulent period in adolescence; she later rebuilt her career as an adult and expanded into producing and other media ventures.

Film work and collaborations

As an adult performer she developed a reputation for leading roles in romantic comedies and mainstream studio pictures. She appeared opposite comedian Adam Sandler in several films, including the popular 1990s and 2000s comedies The Wedding Singer and 50 First Dates, and later teamed with him again in other projects. Beyond acting she co-founded a production company and has produced titles ranging from small dramas to big-screen comedies.

Television, streaming and other media

Barrymore moved into television and digital platforms in later years. She starred in the Netflix series Santa Clarita Diet and helped bring the show to a streaming audience, while also creating and hosting daytime talk programming. Her career has spanned film, streaming series and talk shows, reflecting an ability to adapt to changing media landscapes. See also the series Santa Clarita Diet for an example of her later acting roles.

Notable facts, business activities and legacy

Beyond performance, Barrymore has been active as a producer and entrepreneur, launching production ventures, branded products and participating in charitable work. Her trajectory—from celebrated child actor to challenged teen and then to a sustained adult career—frequently serves as an example of professional reinvention in entertainment. Selected films and collaborations mentioned above illustrate key milestones in a career that continues to include film, television and business endeavors.

• Selected films: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, The Wedding Singer, 50 First Dates
• Notable collaborator: Adam Sandler
• Streaming series: Netflix show Santa Clarita Diet