Drew Barrymore has released an emotive video statement in response to widespread reports that she stated in a US interview that she “cannot wait” for her mother’s demise.
The 48-year-old celebrity was enraged when the remark appeared in an interview with the American entertainment website Vulture.
Barrymore told the website that it was difficult for her to move on and recover from her problematic relationship with mother Jaid Barrymore while her mother was still alive.
“I am unable to wait. Barrymore told the news outlet, “I don’t want to live in a state where I wish someone would leave sooner than they’re supposed to so I can grow.”
“I truly desire for her to be joyful, thriving, and healthy. But I must… develop despite her presence on Earth.”
In an Instagram video posted earlier on Tuesday (AEST), the Charlie’s Angels star denied she would ever utter such a thing.
She said, “Don’t twist my words or ever say I wished my mother was dead; I’ve never said that and I never will.”
Since I was 13 years old, you tabloids have messed with my existence.
“I have never expressed a desire for my mother’s demise. How dare you insert those words into my mouth!
Barrymore, who rose to prominence as Gertie in the 1982 film E.T., has previously discussed her difficult upbringing. She entered treatment at age 13 and has admitted to attempting suicide.
A year later, at the tender age of 14, she was granted her freedom from her mother Jaid and father John.
She stated on Tuesday that she only intended to be “vulnerable” in her Vulture interview.
“I have been vulnerable and tried to figure out a very difficult, painful relationship while admitting it is difficult to do so while a parent is alive,” she said on the website.
“Those of us who must figure this out in real time cannot wait,” meaning they cannot wait for the time, not because the parent is deceased.
Barrymore, who currently hosts her own talk show on television, told Vulture that she coveted her peers whose parents had passed away.
“Their mothers are all gone, but mine remains,” she said.
“I cannot afford such a luxury. I however cannot wait. I do not want to be in a position where I wish for someone to pass away so that I can develop.
“I truly desire for her to be joyful, thriving, and healthy. However, I must grow despite her presence on the planet.”
Later in the interview, Barrymore was more compassionate.
“I dared to say it, and I didn’t feel good,” she stated.
“I do care. I’ll never not care. I’m not sure if I’ve ever truly guarded, closed off, not felt, or constructed a wall.
John Barrymore’s father passed away in 2004. As with her mother, she has forgiven him for the difficulties of her upbringing.
“I absolve my parents. I pardon my father,” she declared.
However, she acknowledges that her life is still not perfect.
“I have never forgiven myself, but I’m willing to do so now.”