She took her first sip of alcohol at just eight years old. By 13, she was in rehab. Yet against all odds, this Hollywood legend rose from a turbulent childhood to become one of the most beloved actresses in the world.
A childhood in the spotlight
Drew Barrymore’s journey began almost from birth. At 11 months, she appeared in a dog food commercial, hinting at the stardom that awaited her. By age seven, she was already a household name—pouring Baileys over her ice cream in a way that captivated audiences everywhere. Her charm, humor, and precociousness were showcased in interviews with celebrities like Johnny Carson, while her screen debut in Altered States at five and her breakout role in Spielberg’s E.T. cemented her early fame.
Yet behind the smiles, Drew’s life was far from perfect. Her family struggled with addiction, her father battled alcoholism, and her mother’s unpredictable behavior often left her navigating life on her own. By nine, her parents divorced, and she was introduced to Studio 54, a world of drugs and nightlife, long before she was ready.
Early struggles with addiction
By age eight, she already called herself a “party girl.” Alcohol came into her life early, and by 12, she was spiraling into addiction. Rehab and a mental institution became part of her teenage reality. Reflecting later, she admitted, “When I was 13, that was probably the lowest. Just knowing that I really was alone. And it felt… terrible.”
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