Drew Barrymore became a household name at just seven years old with her role as Gertie in the 1982 hit movie E.T.. However, many may not know that this iconic film also led to a memorable moment in her life: meeting Princess Diana. After E.T. became a massive success in the U.S., the U.K. premiere was held in December 1982, and Princess Diana was in attendance. It was during this event that Barrymore had the opportunity to meet the beloved princess, even presenting her with an E.T. doll.
#1. A Special Moment at the U.K. Premiere of E.T.
The U.K. premiere of E.T. in December 1982 was attended by both Princess Diana and King Charles, who had been married for just 18 months at the time. However, for young Drew Barrymore, all eyes were on Princess Diana. In an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live in 2018, Barrymore shared that meeting Princess Diana was one of the most exciting moments of her life. She explained that Princess Diana “was, and is, and will always be the epitome of a woman that all little girls look up to.”
Barrymore, just seven at the time, followed royal protocol by curtsying after shaking Princess Diana’s hand. The joyful expression on her face made it clear that the meeting left a lasting impression.
#2. The Stylish Occasion: 1980s Vibes at the Royal Premiere
The event was not only a significant moment for Drew Barrymore but also a fashionable one, with both Barrymore and Princess Diana sporting memorable 1980s styles. Barrymore wore a long-sleeved dress with ruffles, a bow, and white gloves. Princess Diana, on the other hand, dazzled in a sleeveless gown designed by Gina Frattini, complete with a glittering choker. The event was a perfect blend of Hollywood glamour and royal elegance.
#3. Did Princess Diana Keep the E.T. Doll?
Years later, Barrymore discussed the meeting once again, this time with Boy George on The Drew Barrymore Show in 2024. The two bonded over their shared experience of meeting Princess Diana, with Barrymore emphasizing that Princess Diana’s kindness and personable nature truly lived up to her reputation as the “People’s Princess.”
In her chat with Jimmy Kimmel, Barrymore confidently expressed her belief that Princess Diana cherished the E.T. doll she gifted her, dismissing Kimmel’s playful suggestion that the princess might have tossed it aside. “Look at the way she’s looking at it!” Barrymore exclaimed. At the time of the premiere, Prince William was just six months old, and Barrymore liked to imagine that Princess Diana may have passed the toy along to her son.
