Lights, camera, legends! We explore the fascinating lives of Hollywood's iconic actresses. Forget the red carpet. We want real stories. The behind-the-scenes drama. The quirky details that make these stars endlessly captivating. From early starts to personal trials, we reveal the lives of Lex Scott Davis, Drew Barrymore, Bette Davis, and Joan Crawford.
Lex Scott Davis: The Rising Star
Let’s begin with Lex Scott Davis. She’s making waves in movies and television. You may wonder how she started. The details of her acting origin story are a bit of an industry secret. Sometimes, the path to stardom is mysterious, adding to her allure.
Davis's journey likely includes talent, perseverance, and some luck. Think about it. Many hopefuls come to Hollywood, but only a few break through. This shows her dedication and skill. She has a place in the competitive entertainment world. Stay tuned; more about her early career will come out. For now, appreciate that she’s delivering great performances and adding flair to movies and streaming. The mystery enhances intrigue.
Drew Barrymore: From Child Star to Media Mogul
Now, let’s discuss Drew Barrymore. Her life has been thoroughly documented and is anything but boring. From childhood in the limelight to navigating fame, her journey is a rollercoaster, always watchable.
Early Days: Before She Could Even Blow Out Birthday Candles
Drew was practically born for the camera. She did commercials before turning one. While others crawled, baby Drew was already in the ad world. Imagine the baby food endorsements! It’s nearly comical, showing her early entry into show business. Some people are destined for fame, and Drew had her card at birth.
E.T. and Instant Icon Status
A few years later, six-year-old Drew got the role of Gertie in E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial. She wasn’t just a cute kid anymore; she became Gertie and captured hearts with her charm. Spielberg saw something special in her. E.T. was a phenomenon, and she was at its center. Six years old facing pressure? Remarkable! She handled it with an authenticity that made everyone fall in love with her.
Flower Films: Taking Control Behind the Camera
Drew is not just defined by childhood roles. No, she’s a powerhouse. In 1995, she co-founded Flower Films with Nancy Juvonen. This showed she wasn't just pretty but also savvy behind the camera. Establishing a production company young? That’s entrepreneurial spirit. Flower Films produced successful and delightful movies, solidifying Barrymore's Hollywood influence. She took charge of her narrative, a power move we can’t overlook.
Personal Life: A Public Journey of Ups and Downs
Drew’s personal life has been an open book. Sometimes, it’s been quite dramatic. Her relationship with her mother has sparked much discussion.
Left to Her Own Devices: A Childhood Less Than Ideal
Drew openly discussed her unconventional upbringing. Her mother took a hands-off approach, leaving Drew to navigate the world alone even before hitting ten. Some might call it independence training, but it sounds like neglect. Imagine being a child star with little guidance. It's a recipe for disaster and led to a turbulent adolescence.
Partying and Drinking: A Descent into Chaos
Left alone and under fame’s pressure, Drew started losing control. Drinking and partying became coping mechanisms. This is a familiar story in Hollywood. The child star struggles under expectation and lack of support. Drew’s public journey through this messy period was concerning and filled with tabloid fodder. Behind the headlines is a girl trying to find herself.
Emancipation at 14: Taking Charge of Her Life
In a drastic yet necessary move, Drew emancipated herself from her parents at fourteen. That’s barely old enough to drive! But Drew did it, taking control of her life and career. It was bold and showed determination to forge her own path. Emancipation at 14? That's not just growing up; that’s sprinting into adulthood.
Financial Support for Mom: A Complicated Dynamic
Despite the tumultuous past, Drew revealed she still financially supports her mother. Complicated family dynamics, indeed! It speaks volumes about her character—loyalty, compassion, perhaps Hollywood guilt. It's a testament to their bond. Family relationships are rarely black and white, especially under the spotlight.
Religion: A Spiritual Path Forward
Drew's spiritual life has taken interesting turns, especially in raising her children.
Raising Daughter Jewish: Embracing a New Faith
That sweet girl from E.T. grew up and said she'd raise her daughter, Olive, Jewish. This was notable since it was her then-husband Will Kopelman's faith. A beautiful example of interfaith families embracing different traditions emerged. It showed Drew's willingness to explore and adopt faith beyond her upbringing.
Potential Conversion: A Deeper Commitment?
Drew not only planned to raise Olive Jewish but there were discussions about her converting to Judaism herself. Whether she formally converted is unclear, but the intention showed deep respect for her spouse's background and potential personal spiritual growth. It highlights a thoughtful approach to faith, refreshing in the superficial celebrity world.
Living Situation at 14: David Crosby to the Rescue
Remember that emancipation at 14? It didn’t mean Drew became self-sufficient overnight. She had help from an unexpected source: David Crosby.
Taken in by David Crosby: An Unlikely Guardian Angel
A 2021 interview revealed that David Crosby and his wife Jan Dance took in Drew Barrymore when she was fourteen. They met at a treatment center. Yes, that David Crosby, known for his colorful past. It’s an unexpected twist in Drew Barrymore’s story, truly.
the least. It also shows the kindness and generosity of Crosby and his wife. They opened their home to a teen in need.
Sobriety: A Journey to Recovery
Drew has faced challenges with substance abuse. David Crosby played a role in her recovery.
Helped by David Crosby: Aiding in Sobriety
Fans appreciated Crosby’s kind act. He took in a troubled teenager and provided stability. Despite his own demons, he showed compassion. For Drew, this support was invaluable on her path to sobriety. Help can come from unexpected places.
Partners and Marriage: Navigating Relationships in the Public Eye
Drew’s romantic life fascinates the public. She has three marriages.
Will Kopelman: Art, Family, and Divorce
In 2011, Drew started dating Will Kopelman. He is the son of a former Chanel COO. They seemed like a good match. They married in 2012 and had two daughters together. However, like many romances, it ended in divorce in 2016. Even perfect pairings can face challenges under scrutiny.
Lisp: A Speech Quirk Revealed
Here’s a fun fact about Drew: she has a slight lisp. She wasn't aware of it until a co-star mentioned it.
Jimmy Fallon Pointed it Out: A Friendly Observation
In 2005, Jimmy Fallon told her about it. Imagine being a famous actress and not knowing! It’s kind of endearing. Often, we are oblivious to things others notice. Jimmy’s good humor made it easier.
Family Ties: Hollywood Royalty
Drew Barrymore comes from a long line of actors. Her aunt, Diana Barrymore, was a star too.
Diana Barrymore: Aunt and Actress
Diana was the daughter of John Barrymore. She added to the Barrymore legacy as an actress. Acting talent often runs in families. The Barrymores are a prime example.
Marriages: Three Times Down the Aisle
Drew has been married three times. Let’s break down her marital history.
Jeremy Thomas, Tom Green, Will Kopelman: A Trio of Husbands
Drew’s marriages include: Jeremy Thomas: married in 1994, divorced in 1995. A short marriage. Tom Green: married in 2001, divorced in 2002. Their union was short-lived. Will Kopelman: married in 2012, divorced in 2016. This marriage produced two daughters. Three marriages by a young age? Drew hasn’t hesitated to commit.
Children: Motherhood and Family Life
Through Will Kopelman, Drew became a mother to two daughters.
Olive and Frankie: Two Daughters
Barrymore and Kopelman have two daughters: Olive and Frankie. Motherhood brought stability and joy to Drew’s life. She speaks of her daughters with love and pride.
Age When Having Children: 37 and 39 – Motherhood in Her Late 30s
Drew was 37 when Olive was born in September 2012. She was 39 when Frankie arrived in April 2014. Having children in her late 30s is common now. It seems to have brought her fulfillment.
Childhood Crush: A Blast from the Past
In a delightful pre-Valentine's confession, Drew shared a childhood secret.
Ke Huy Quan: Mutual Childhood Crushes
Drew and Ke Huy Quan had secret crushes on each other as child stars of the 80s. How adorable! They both starred in iconic films. The heartwarming story makes you believe in Hollywood fairy tales. Imagine if they had dated! History could have changed.
Bette Davis: The Queen of Intensity
Let’s dive into Bette Davis’s world. She was a true legend of Hollywood. Known for intensity and unforgettable performances, she was an acting force.
Acting Career Start: The Early Stages
Every star starts somewhere. Bette’s journey began on stage.
First Professional Role (1929): From Stage to Screen
Bette’s acting career began in 1929. It was meant to be in a Provincetown Players production of The Earth Between. The production faced delay by a year. The world of theater is surprising. But setbacks can lead to opportunities.
Hedwig in The Wild Duck: A Pivotal Role
Bette played Hedwig in The Wild Duck in 1929. Blanche Yurka chose her for this role. It gave Bette valuable experience and exposure early in her career.
Best Movie: A Legacy of Film Masterpieces
Bette Davis has an extensive filmography filled with classics. Choosing her best movie is challenging, yet some of her films stand out.
List of Top Films: A Glimpse into Greatness
Here are a few highlights from Bette’s top films:
- All About Eve (1950): A masterpiece showcasing Davis's best work.
- The Man Who Came to Dinner (1941): A comedic gem proving Davis’ versatility.
- Marked Woman (1937): A drama highlighting her intensity.
- Dark Victory (1939): A tearjerker that earned her an Oscar nomination.
- The Petrified Forest (1936): A noir thriller with Davis against Bogart.
- What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962): A diva showdown with Crawford.
- Mr. Skeffington (1944): Another Oscar-nominated role for Davis.
- Pocketful of Miracles (1961): A delightful film with Davis shining.
Children: Family Life Amidst Fame
Bette Davis’s personal life mirrored her dramatic roles. Her relationships with her children were also intense.
Barbara (B.D.): Daughter from Marriage to William Grant Sherry
Bette gave birth to her daughter Barbara, also known as B.D., during her marriage to William Grant Sherry. B.D. brought public drama for Davis later on.
Relationships can be complicated, particularly in the spotlight. The Davis-Sherry dynamic was quite complex.
Margot (Adopted, Mentally Disabled): A Child with Special Needs
Bette adopted two more children. Margot was discovered to be mentally disabled. Raising a special needs child presents unique challenges. In a time of less understanding and resources, it was particularly demanding. This reflects a compassionate side of Bette Davis.
Michael (Adopted): Son from Marriage to Gary Merrill
Her third adopted child was Michael. He was adopted during her final marriage to Gary Merrill. Michael had a more private relationship with Bette Davis. Unlike B.D. and Margot, his relationship appeared less tumultuous. Each child’s bond with Bette was unique, showing family complexities.
Estate: Legacy and Inheritance
What happens to a Hollywood star's wealth after they pass? Let’s look at Bette Davis’s will.
Beneficiaries of Her Will: Who Got What?
Bette Davis’s estate was valued at about $1 million. This is not small, but maybe less than expected for a major star. Most of the estate went to her son, Michael Merrill. Kathryn Sermack, Bette’s friend and assistant, was another beneficiary. Its absence of B.D. wasn’t surprising given their strained relationship. Wills tell interesting stories.
Disabled Child: Margot Mosher Merrill
Let’s dive into the story of Margot Mosher Merrill, Bette Davis’s adopted daughter.
Margot Mosher Merrill: Facing Challenges
Margot was Bette and Gary Merrill’s adopted daughter. Tragically, she was diagnosed with brain damage at three. This diagnosis brought challenges for Davis and Merrill as parents. Raising a child with brain damage requires dedication and patience. It shows that Hollywood stars face real life struggles too.
Meryl Streep: Passing the Torch
Bette Davis admired Meryl Streep in her later years.
Praise for Meryl Streep: A Legend Recognizes a Successor
Before her death in 1989, Davis wrote Meryl Streep a letter. She applauded Streep’s acting skills. Bette called Streep a worthy successor. Davis recognized her talent as one of the best in film history. This praise from Bette is highly significant. It's a touching moment of one legend encouraging another.
Greatest Love: William Wyler
Bette Davis had a great love that involved both passion and connection.
William Wyler: Director and Desire
William Wyler was a famous director and Bette’s love. He directed her best films, including Jezebel and Dark Victory. "He was everything I ever dreamed of in a man," said Bette. She considered him both desirable and her intellectual equal. This classic Hollywood romance had complexities that likely prevented a fairytale ending. However, Wyler’s impact on Davis’s career is clear.
Oscars: Loss and Drama
The Oscars bring ongoing drama. The 1963 Best Actress race is memorable for Bette Davis.
Losing Best Actress Award: A Stunning Upset
The 1963 Oscars were dramatic. Bette was nominated for Best Actress for What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? Many thought she would win. Surprisingly, she lost to Anne Bancroft. Joan Crawford, Davis’s rival, accepted the award for Bancroft, who wasn’t there. Ouch. This was serious Oscar night drama. Bette had to watch her rival accept what many thought was hers.
Joan Crawford: The Definition of Glamour
Now we discuss Joan Crawford, a name tied to Hollywood glamour and intensity. Joan was a self-made star, representing ambition and reinvention.
Death: The Final Curtain Call
Fans often scrutinize a star's life even after death. Joan Crawford’s passing fell under this scrutiny.
Cause of Death: A Heart Attack in Manhattan
Joan Crawford died of a heart attack at her New York City apartment. She was found at 158 East 68th Street. Her passing marked the end of a true Hollywood icon’s era. It was a life filled with triumphs and tribulations, glamour and grit. Even at the end, the location was iconic – a Manhattan apartment befitting a star.
Children: Adoption and Family Dynamics
Like Bette Davis, Joan Crawford had adopted children. Her relationship with them, especially Christina, became notorious.
Adopted Children: A Family of Five
Joan adopted five children, but one was reclaimed by his birth mother. She raised four: Christina, Christopher, Cathy, and Cindy. Her parenting style was often harsh, as depicted in Christina's memoir, Mommie Dearest. Despite controversies, these were her children. Family dynamics in Hollywood are rarely straightforward.
Burial: Resting Place of a Star
Fans want to know where their idols rest after death. Joan Crawford’s final location became a point of pilgrimage.
Location: Ferncliff Cemetery, New York
Joan Crawford is buried in Ferncliff Cemetery, New York. She rests in the Ferncliff Mausoleum with her last husband, Alfred Steele, former CEO of PepsiCo. This cemetery is popular among celebrities and offers serenity. For fans, Ferncliff became a destination to honor Joan’s memory.
Estate: Wealth and Distribution
Let’s examine Joan Crawford’s financial legacy and its distribution.
Distribution of Estate: Leaving a Fortune Behind
Joan Crawford left an estate worth about $2 million. In 1976, less than a year before her death, she wrote a will outlining asset distribution. She set trust funds of $77,500 for her daughters, Cathy and Cindy. She gave $35,000 to her friend Betty Barker and smaller amounts to others. Notably, her will excluded Christina and Christopher for "well-known reasons." This fueled discussions about her relationship with Christina after Mommie Dearest. Wills can reveal much, and Crawford’s is no exception.
This is a whirlwind tour through the lives of Lex Scott Davis, Drew Barrymore, Bette Davis, and Joan Crawford. From stardom to Oscar nights, these actresses lived captivating lives. They are legends for a reason, shaping Hollywood and leaving their mark on culture. What future chapters are waiting to be written in Hollywood's saga?
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