She was only eight when she took her first sip of alcohol.
At the age of 13, she found herself in rehab.
Yet, against all odds, this star managed to conquer her inner battles, and today she stands as one of the most famous and celebrated actresses globally.
A challenging childhood
This iconic actress, who rose to prominence in Hollywood at a tender age, has a narrative marked by hardship, personal growth, and eventual triumph.
Her adventure started when she was merely 11 months old, featuring in a dog food advertisement that foreshadowed the fame that lay ahead.
By the time she was seven, she had already become a film sensation, famously drizzling Baileys over her ice cream in a way that won the hearts of many around the globe. A memorable interview with Johnny Carson highlighted her intelligence, wit, and playful charm.
She was undeniably adorable, and although other children didn’t always grasp her — she confesses she seldom connected with her contemporaries — audiences of all ages were enchanted by her.
She made her film debut at just five years old in Ken Russell’s sci-fi horror film Altered States, but it was two years later, in Steven Spielberg’s E.T., that truly launched her into the spotlight.