Hollywood Child Stars

The Bad Years:
Drew's Battle With Drugs and Alcohol

Some people may believe that the life of a Hollywood star appears to be nothing but glamor, but in reality, stars are faced with many obstacles, pressures and temptations. Many times, celebrities succumb to the temptations thrown their way.

So the story goes for young Drew Barrymore, who tried alcohol for the first time at the age of 9 and marijuana at the age of 10. Not long after these trials, she turned to cocaine, a far more dangerous drug. In the 1989 movie Far From Home, Barrymore provoked controversy with her nearly nude appearance. She was forced into the drug rehab clinic ASAP Family Treatment Center.

Being within the confines of a rehab clinic didn’t deter Drew from trying to escape. After stealing her mother’s credit card, she fled and headed to the West Coast where authorities caught her and returned her to the clinic. Out of rehab, she made a television appearance warning teens about the dangers of drugs. However, her advocacy stint was short-lived as she fell back into her addiction.

Barrymore hit an ultimate low in the summer of 1989 when she was sent back to rehab after she attempted to commit suicide. Finally, she was able to overcome her addictions. At 14, she wrote her autobiography, Little Girl Lost, chronicling her bumpy road to stardom. Soon after leaving rehab, she decided she was no longer in need of parental aid so at the age of 15, Drew divorced her mother.

Drew has been through more trials and tribulations than most people will in a lifetime. She has persevered through challenging times and continues to show strength today.

More on Drew Barrymore
In the Genes?
Filmography
Her Bad Years
Posing for Playboy
The Barrymore Family
Charities