Drew Barrymore recently opened up about the intense scrutiny she experienced as a child actor during an episode of The Drew Barrymore Show aired on January 14. The 50-year-old actress recounted how she faced harsh criticism regarding her body as young as seven years old, particularly recalling comments made about her appearance after her breakout role in “E.T.”
During the episode, Barrymore showcased a photo of herself at age 10 and expressed her sorrow over the judgment she faced. “This picture… It just breaks my heart. I was 10 years old and I just was told by everybody, ‘You don’t look how you did in E.T. You’re too heavy. You’re not blonde enough. You’re not old enough. You’re too young. You’re not tall,’” she shared. Her honest reflection on these experiences resonated deeply with her guest, fellow actress Valerie Bertinelli, who expressed how disheartening it was to learn of the cruelty directed at young Barrymore.
Barrymore emphasized the confusion and pressure that accompany such harsh critiques, stating, “I don’t know what I’m supposed to be for other people. And you don’t know yourself at 10.” However, she finds solace in the growth that comes with age. “I do know what’s important now,” she stated, expressing her clarity at this stage in her life.
She spoke candidly about the often challenging journey towards self-acceptance and happiness, acknowledging that, “It’s a battle and a beautiful, internal war that we fight.” Barrymore encouraged viewers who may feel pressured to conform to external standards by assuring them that they are not alone in their struggles. She conveyed a potent message about recognizing one’s worth, stating that real happiness is ultimately a choice that we can make for ourselves, independent of societal expectations.
In closing, Barrymore encouraged her audience to strive for personal freedom and to discover what it takes for them to feel good about themselves. Her heartfelt reflection serves as a reminder that understanding and accepting oneself is an ongoing journey that can lead to profound happiness and fulfillment.