John Drew Barrymore was an American actor who is best known for While the City Sleeps, High School Confidential!, and Never Love a Stranger.
Personal and Family Life
John Drew Barrymore was born on June 4, 1932, in Los Angeles, California. He came from a prominent acting family, being the son of stage legend John Barrymore and actress Dolores Costello. Barrymore had four children, including actress Drew Barrymore, but struggled with relationships and his role as a father.
Career
Barrymore’s acting career began at a young age, signing a movie contract at 17 despite his mother wanting him to pursue a different path. He had a sporadic career with some notable roles in films but was often hindered by personal issues such as alcoholism and legal troubles. His rebellious nature led to many challenges, both professionally and personally.
Death and Legacy
John Drew Barrymore passed away on November 29, 2004, in Los Angeles, California, due to cancer. Despite his troubled life, he left behind a legacy through his children, particularly Drew Barrymore, who has openly discussed their tumultuous relationship in her memoir.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| While the City Sleeps | 1956-04-19 | Robert Manners |
| The Big Night | 1951-12-07 | George La Main (as John Barrymore Jr.) |
| High School Confidential! | 1958-05-30 | J. I. Coleridge |
| The Shadow on the Window | 1957-03-06 | Jess Reber |
| I cosacchi | 1960-02-04 | Jamal |
| Never Love a Stranger | 1958-06-22 | Francis ‘Frankie’ Kane |
| The Sundowners | 1950-02-02 | The Younger Brother – Jeff Cloud |
| Rawhide | 1959-01-09 | Harry Eccles |
| Climax! | 1954-10-07 | Matt |
| The Wild Wild West | 1965-09-17 | |
| Gunsmoke | 1955-09-10 | Anderson |
| Hollywood Screen Tests: Take 1 | 1999-01-01 | Self (archive footage) (uncredited) |
| Night of the Quarter Moon | 1959-03-04 | Roderic ‘Chuck’ Nelson |