Few actors possess a narrative as compelling as Drew Barrymore. Born into the most prestigious acting dynasty in American history, she was perhaps destined for the screen, yet her journey has been anything but a straight line. Since her debut at age five, she has navigated the extreme highs of global stardom and the crushing lows of adolescent struggle, emerging in 2026 as a beloved talk show host and a savvy business leader. As she enters her 51st year, Drew remains a symbol of survival and sunshine, currently making headlines for her striking 2026 Grammy appearance and the whispered rumors of a massive Charlie’s Angels reunion project. This article celebrates her milestone birthday by revisiting the ten projects that cement her status as a permanent fixture in the cinematic firmament.
1. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
At just six years old, Drew captured the world’s heart as Gertie, the spirited younger sister who teaches a stranded alien about the wonders of Earth. Her natural charisma and iconic pigtails made her an overnight sensation, but it was her genuine emotional connection to the puppet co-star that proved she was a preternatural talent. Even in 2026, the film remains a touchstone of family cinema, marking the beginning of a lifelong bond between Drew and her godfather, director Steven Spielberg.
2. Scream (1996)
In one of the most effective marketing “baits” in horror history, Drew’s Casey Becker was featured as the face of the film only to be killed off in the first twelve minutes. This shocking opening sequence revitalized the slasher genre and proved that Drew had the range to pivot from rom-com sweetheart to a terrified final girl. Her frantic performance over the phone became an instant cultural shorthand for suspense, setting the stage for the massive meta-horror franchise that continues to dominate theaters today.
3. The Wedding Singer (1998)
This film kicked off one of Hollywood’s most beloved on-screen partnerships between Drew and Adam Sandler. As Julia Sullivan, Drew brought a grounding, “girl-next-door” sweetness that perfectly balanced Sandler’s chaotic energy, creating a 1980s-inspired romantic comedy that felt both nostalgic and fresh. Their chemistry was so palpable that it sparked two more successful collaborations over the next two decades, proving that Drew’s presence could turn a simple love story into an enduring classic.
4. Ever After (1998)
Breaking away from the typical “damsel in distress” trope, Drew’s portrayal of Danielle de Barbarac redefined the Cinderella story for a more empowered generation. This historical drama showcased her ability to lead a prestige production, infusing the character with a fierce intelligence, a sense of justice, and a convincing French accent. By 2026, the film is frequently cited by fans as the definitive version of the fairy tale, largely due to Drew’s ability to make the Renaissance era feel remarkably modern and relatable.
5. Never Been Kissed (1999)
As the first official production from her company, Flower Films, this movie solidified Drew’s power as a creative force behind the scenes. Playing Josie Geller—a nerdy reporter who goes undercover at a high school to reclaim her dignity—Drew leaned into the awkwardness and vulnerability that would become her trademark. The film’s themes of self-acceptance and the “second chance” resonated deeply with audiences, proving that Drew knew exactly what her fans wanted to see: a heroine who wins by being herself.
6. Charlie’s Angels (2000)
Trading her soft-spoken roles for high-octane action, Drew starred as Dylan Sanders in this turn-of-the-millennium blockbuster. Alongside Cameron Diaz and Lucy Liu, she helped transform a 1970s TV show into a vibrant, feminist celebration of sisterhood and stunt-heavy choreography. The film was a massive commercial success that cemented her A-list status, and the 2026 reports of a “legacy sequel” involving the original trio have fans buzzing about a return to the franchise that defined her producer era.
7. 50 First Dates (2004)
Reuniting with Adam Sandler, Drew took on the challenging role of Lucy Whitmore, a woman whose short-term memory loss forces her suitor to win her heart every single day. The role required a delicate balance of humor and heartbreak, and Drew’s performance ensured the film stayed grounded in genuine emotion rather than descending into slapstick. It remains a staple of the romantic comedy genre, often praised for how it handles the concept of enduring love amidst life-altering circumstances.
8. Grey Gardens (2009)
In a dramatic transformation that earned her a Golden Globe, Drew disappeared into the role of “Little Edie” Bouvier Beale, the eccentric cousin of Jackie Kennedy. This HBO film allowed her to shed her “America’s sweetheart” image and showcase her depth as a character actress, capturing the tragic decay and defiant spirit of a woman living in a crumbling mansion. Critics hailed it as a career-best performance, proving that Drew’s talent extended far beyond the lighthearted roles for which she was primarily known.
9. Santa Clarita Diet (2017–2019)
This Netflix cult classic allowed Drew to explore a wildly different genre: the suburban zombie comedy. As Sheila Hammond, a real estate agent who develops a craving for human flesh, she delivered a hilariously manic performance that leaned into the absurdity of the premise while maintaining a sweet family dynamic with Timothy Olyphant. Though the show ended in 2019, its popularity on streaming services in 2026 continues to grow, with fans still campaigning for a revival to resolve the series’ cliffhanger.
10. The Drew Barrymore Show (2020–Present)
The final title in her decade-spanning career isn’t a film at all, but a daily conversation that has redefined daytime television. Since its launch, the show has become a viral sensation, known for its “no-boundaries” empathy and Drew’s willingness to get on the floor—literally—with her guests. Entering its sixth successful season in 2026, the show is the ultimate manifestation of her legacy, proving that her greatest role of all is the unfiltered, optimistic, and deeply human version of herself.