In a delightful episode of The Drew Barrymore Show aired on 10th November, actress Jessica Chastain was treated to an unexpected and nostalgic surprise that harked back to one of cinema’s most beloved films, *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*. Chastain, currently promoting her new thriller *Heartland*, expressed her admiration for the classic film during her appearance, leading to an extraordinary moment when Barrymore transformed into her character, Gertie.
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Drew Barrymore, who first rose to fame as Gertie in Steven Spielberg’s iconic 1982 film at the tender age of seven, elicited an astonished response from the 51-year-old Chastain. As they chatted, Barrymore produced a mannequin head complete with a blonde wig styled in Gertie’s signature pigtails, complete with bows. The surprising reveal left Chastain momentarily speechless as she exclaimed, “No, you are not doing this!” Her astonishment was palpable as she witnessed her childhood favourite character come to life right in front of her eyes.
In a playful exchange, Barrymore referred to the uncanny situation as “so weird,” to which Chastain replied, “It’s not weird! This is why you are who you are and I love you.” She went on to express her disbelief at meeting Gertie in such an unexpected manner, declaring, “This is amazing. I never in my wildest dreams thought I would be [meeting Gertie].”
Embracing the spirit of the character, Barrymore playfully asked Chastain if she had a question for Gertie. Chastain cleverly quipped, “Next time I come here, can Gertie give me a makeover?” referencing the charming scene where Gertie interacts with the titular extraterrestrial character—a moment fondly remembered by fans of the film.
Interestingly, Barrymore’s playful impersonation of Gertie is not a one-off occurrence; she previously surprised actor Ryan Gosling with the same transformation during a show earlier this year. Gosling’s reaction mirrored Chastain’s, as he exclaimed, “No way! Is this really happening!?” and described the moment as “surreal.”
During her appearance, Barrymore reflected on her experience working with Spielberg in her formative years, highlighting the lasting impact it has had on her life. She remains deeply grateful for her time with the director, who she described as a significant father figure. In past interviews, Barrymore has spoken fondly of their bond and the ways he has remained a part of her family life.
For instance, she shared how Spielberg has often been involved with her daughters, Frankie and Olive, saying, “He calls my girls who he held when they were babies, and he’s known them throughout their lives.” This lasting friendship was particularly poignant during the celebrations for *E.T.*’s 40th anniversary in 2022, during which Barrymore included her daughters in the festivities, creating a full-circle moment for her family.
As she described the emotional weight of the occasion, Barrymore stated, “My kids are very close to the age that I was when *E.T.* came out.” This connection to her own childhood and the film’s legacy made the experience all the more meaningful for her. She revealed, “Frankie is at the age, she is seven, and she will just be turning eight, and Olive is nine. She’ll be turning ten. This is where I’m at, and they love Steven.”
Barrymore’s continuing relationship with *E.T.* and her character Gertie showcases not only the impact of the film on her own life but also the ways in which it resonates with new generations. The enthusiasm shared during the recent episode reflects a deep appreciation for classic cinema and its ability to connect people across time.
Overall, the memorable interaction between Chastain and Barrymore serves as a reminder of the nostalgia and affection that *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* conjures in its fans, spanning decades and highlighting the enduring bond between actors and their past roles. As both actresses continue to shine in their respective careers, moments like these offer a glimpse into their shared love for a story that has captivated audiences worldwide.
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