Drew Barrymore, an American actress, producer, talk show host, and entrepreneur, has an estimated net worth of $85 million as of 2024. Her impressive career spans decades, beginning in childhood with roles in blockbuster films like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and later transitioning into producing and hosting. At the height of her acting career, she commanded $15 million per film, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood’s highest-paid actresses.
Beyond acting, Drew has diversified her portfolio with Flower Films, her production company, and successful ventures in beauty, fashion, and wine. Since 2020, she has hosted The Drew Barrymore Show, a nationally syndicated daytime talk show, adding another layer to her multifaceted career.
Early Life and Hollywood Roots
Born on February 22, 1975 (age 49) in Culver City, California, Drew Barrymore was destined for Hollywood stardom. She is part of the legendary Barrymore acting family, with her paternal grandfather, John Barrymore, being one of the most esteemed actors of his time. She also has famous godparents, including Steven Spielberg and Sophia Loren.
However, her childhood was far from idyllic. She experienced early fame but also struggled with substance abuse, attending rehab at just 13 years old. By 15, she became legally emancipated from her parents, marking the start of her journey to independence and self-reinvention.
Breakthrough Acting Career
Drew’s career began before she turned one, starring in a dog food commercial at 11 months old. Her big break came with E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982), where she played Gertie, winning the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Following her success in E.T., she starred in 1984’s Firestarter, a Stephen King adaptation, and Irreconcilable Differences, a film that eerily mirrored her real-life struggles. Throughout the ‘80s, she maintained her career despite personal turmoil, appearing in Cat’s Eye (1985) and other films.
Reinventing Herself in the 1990s
As she entered adulthood, Barrymore made a conscious effort to shed her child star image. The 1992 thriller Poison Ivy showcased her in a bold, mature role. She further cemented her status in cult classics like Doppelganger (1993) and Scream (1996), where she played the unforgettable Casey Becker.
By the late 1990s, Drew had become a rom-com favorite with hits like The Wedding Singer (1998) and Never Been Kissed (1999). She also ventured into producing, co-founding Flower Films in 1995, which would go on to produce some of her biggest projects.
Major Successes in the 2000s
The 2000s marked some of Drew Barrymore’s most financially successful years. She starred in and co-produced Charlie’s Angels (2000) and Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003), earning a staggering $14 million for the sequel.
Her versatility was evident as she balanced independent films (Donnie Darko, Confessions of a Dangerous Mind) with box office hits like 50 First Dates (2004) and Fever Pitch (2005). In 2009, she made her directorial debut with Whip It, a roller derby drama starring Ellen Page.
Transition to Television and Business Ventures
After years of film success, Barrymore pivoted to television. She starred in the Netflix original series Santa Clarita Diet (2017-2019) alongside Timothy Olyphant. The show received positive reviews but was canceled after three seasons.
In 2020, she launched The Drew Barrymore Show, a daytime talk show that blends celebrity interviews, lifestyle segments, and personal insights. The show has become a major success, proving her enduring appeal across different entertainment mediums.
Aside from entertainment, Drew has built a successful business empire. Her ventures include:
- Flower Films (1995-present): Produced many of her films, including Never Been Kissed and 50 First Dates.
- Flower Beauty (2013): A popular cosmetics line known for quality and affordability.
- Barrymore Wines (2012): A successful California-based wine brand.
- Flower Home & Eyewear (2019): A lifestyle brand offering stylish home decor and eyewear.
Personal Life and Family
Drew Barrymore’s personal life has been as eventful as her career. She has been married three times:
- Jeremy Thomas (1994): Married at 19 but divorced after two months.
- Tom Green (2001-2002): A short-lived marriage to the comedian.
- Will Kopelman (2012-2016): They have two daughters, Olive and Frankie.
Following her divorce from Kopelman, Drew has focused on co-parenting and personal growth. She has also been open about her journey in therapy and self-care.
Real Estate Investments
Barrymore has made several real estate moves over the years, reflecting her taste for luxury and strategic investments:
- 2010: Purchased a $5.5 million Montecito estate, later selling it for $6.35 million in 2013.
- 2018: Sold her Hollywood Hills home for $16.5 million.
- 2019: Bought a 5,600-square-foot Hamptons estate for $5.5 million, which she listed for $8.45 million in 2024.
- Present: Lives in Manhattan, where she films The Drew Barrymore Show.
Drew Barrymore’s Salary Highlights
Throughout her career, Drew has had varied paychecks, balancing blockbuster salaries with indie film paydays:
- $500,000 for Donnie Darko (2001)
- $3 million for Ever After (1998)
- $9 million for Charlie’s Angels (2000)
- $14 million for Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003)
- $15 million for Music and Lyrics (2007), her highest payday
A Lasting Legacy
Drew Barrymore’s career is a testament to resilience and reinvention. From child stardom to overcoming personal struggles and becoming a Hollywood mogul, she has solidified herself as one of the most influential women in entertainment. With ongoing business ventures, a successful talk show, and an ever-growing empire, her legacy continues to evolve.