Drew Barrymore Opens Up About Stepping Back from Acting for Motherhood

Drew Barrymore has revealed the reasons behind her decision to step away from acting, emphasizing her desire to prioritize motherhood and personal growth. In a candid interview with AARP The Magazine for its February/March 2025 cover story, the 49-year-old actress and TV host shared her journey of stepping back from Hollywood’s spotlight to focus on raising her two daughters, Olive and Frankie, whom she shares with her ex-husband Will Kopelman.

Reflecting on her early 40s, Barrymore admitted to grappling with her identity and role as a parent. “I was not learning how to be my own healthy, independent individual, how to be the parent I dream to be,” she explained.

She added that acting was no longer conducive to her goals. “Being other people doesn’t help me figure that out right now,” Barrymore said. “And the long hours of doing films were hours I wouldn’t have with my kids. I wasn’t going to do that.”

Barrymore’s decision comes after a long and illustrious career that includes iconic roles in Scream, Charlie’s Angels, Never Been Kissed, and the Netflix series Santa Clarita Diet. Despite her success, the Golden Globe winner has put her family and personal well-being at the forefront.

Back in 2023, Barrymore spoke with the Los Angeles Times about her hesitance to return to acting. At the time, she said the craft didn’t feel “emotionally available to me right now.” “I just need to be myself. I struggle to be someone else,” Barrymore admitted.

“But I just can’t see acting right now. I know that sounds sad and dismissive, and I hate when people are like, ‘I’m retiring,’ or ‘This is my goodbye.’ I don’t want it to come off that way.” Barrymore’s honesty highlights the challenges many working parents face in balancing their professional ambitions with their personal responsibilities.

While her absence from acting has left fans nostalgic for her on-screen presence, her decision to step back underscores her commitment to being present for her children and focusing on her own growth.

For now, Barrymore continues to thrive in her role as a talk show host and a dedicated mother. Whether or not she chooses to return to acting in the future, her legacy in Hollywood and her journey toward personal fulfillment remain inspirational.