Drew Barrymore: Rewriting The Story | The Barrymore Curse | 134
Sep 27, 2022
auto_awesome
Drew Barrymore, a former child star who defied a turbulent family legacy, shares her incredible journey in Hollywood. She reflects on the harsh realities of fame, illustrated by her unforgettable audition for 'E.T.' and the emotional struggles that shaped her life. The discussion delves into the darker side of the Barrymore family's history, from addiction to the pressures of stardom, revealing how she worked to break the cycle and forge her own path as Hollywood's beloved girl next door.
Drew Barrymore's journey reflects the struggle of overcoming a tumultuous family legacy intertwined with fame, addiction, and personal turmoil.
Her breakthrough role in E.T. not only established her career but also exposed her to the hazards of celebrity culture and its challenges.
Deep dives
Drew Barrymore's Early Ambitions and Family Dynamics
At a young age, Drew Barrymore felt the pressure of her family's legacy in the entertainment industry, stemming from her parents' demanding acting careers and their absence from her life. Despite her energetic and vibrant personality, Drew struggled with feelings of loneliness, yearning for parental attention that often eluded her due to their chaotic lifestyle. She attended casting calls in hopes of landing a role that would not only establish her budding career but also make her parents proud. This desire for validation propelled her into the world of acting, igniting a pursuit for recognition amidst her family’s tumultuous background.
The Barrymore Family's Dark History
The narrative of the Barrymore family is steeped in both talent and tragedy, marked by a cycle of addiction and tumultuous personal relationships. Drew's forebears, including her grandfather Maurice Barrymore, found success but were also plagued by substance abuse and destructive behaviors that affected their children. This history set a troubling tone for Drew, who would later face her own challenges with fame and addiction. The struggles of the Barrymore lineage reveal the heavy toll that celebrity status can take on personal lives, with many family members wrestling with their inherited demons.
Drew's Breakthrough Role in E.T.
Drew's defining moment came when she auditioned for the role of Gertie in Steven Spielberg's iconic film E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, where she showcased her unique talent and infectious energy. Despite initial rejection for a different role, Spielberg recognized her potential and invited her back for a key part. Her unforgettable audition, which included a passionate scream that malfunctioned the recording equipment, solidified her place as a rising star in Hollywood, setting the stage for her extraordinary ascent to fame.
Fame's Double-Edged Sword
While Drew's success in E.T. opened doors to a glamorous life as a child star, it also brought with it a wealth of challenges and temptations that would shape her adolescence. With increased public attention came exposure to the pitfalls of celebrity culture, and without adequate guidance, she faced the risks of substance abuse and personal turmoil. As she navigated the complexities of fame, Drew struggled against the shadow of her family's reputation, fighting to build her identity amidst the chaos. Her story underscores the dual nature of fame, revealing how it can be both a blessing and a curse.
Drew Barrymore might just be the prime example of troubled child stardom. But before there was Drew, there was her famous family — and the troubled legacy they left behind. In this four part series, we’ll tell you how Drew Barrymore broke free from the curse of her forefathers and forged her own path as Hollywood’s favorite girl next door.