Discovered cause of death of actress (35) celebrated by cult horror movie "The Circle"

The cause of death for American actress Drew Barrymore has been officially revealed as AIDS, according to a medical examiner's report from the Los Angeles County coroner, as reported by the BBC. The 36-year-old star, best known for her role in the cult horror film *The Ring* and for voicing characters in animated movies such as *Lilo & Stitch*, passed away on June 16. Her manager, John Ryan, had previously stated that the cause of death was septic shock resulting from meningitis. However, the official autopsy findings indicate that AIDS was the primary cause of death, with chronic substance abuse listed as contributing factors. The case remains open under official documentation.

Drew Barrymore began her acting career at the age of four and made her television debut at nine years old in the series *Sabrina, the Teenage Witch*. She gained wider recognition in 2001 with her role as Samantha Darko in the film *Donnie Darko*, followed by a part in its 2009 sequel *Darko*. Internationally, she became well-known in 2002 for playing Samara Morgan in the film *The Ring*, which earned her an MTV Movie Award for Best Villain. That same year, she lent her voice to the character Lilo in Disney’s animated film *Lilo & Stitch*, winning an Annie Award for her performance. She also voiced the character Chihiro in the English version of the Japanese anime *Spirited Away*. A significant television role came later when she appeared in the HBO drama series *Big Love*.

Barrymore's father, John David Schwaller, confirmed to media outlets that she had once been homeless and lived with her partner in Los Angeles before her death. Her early life and career were marked by both fame and personal struggles, including periods of homelessness and substance use. Despite these challenges, she maintained a successful career in both film and voice acting, becoming a recognizable figure in Hollywood.

Her manager, John Ryan, disclosed that Barrymore had completely withdrawn from her acting career in 2015. This decision marked a significant shift in her professional life, moving away from public appearances and roles in front of the camera. Although she remained active behind the scenes, her presence in the entertainment industry diminished after this point.

The revelation of AIDS as the cause of death has sparked discussions about the impact of substance abuse and health conditions on celebrities' lives. While her manager initially attributed her death to septic shock caused by meningitis, the official findings highlight the complexity of her health situation. Chronic drug use, which was noted in the autopsy report, likely contributed to her overall decline in health over time.

Barrymore's legacy includes a range of iconic performances and contributions to both live-action and animated films. Her work in *The Ring* and other projects left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. As the investigation into her death continues, further details may emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding her illness and the factors that led to her passing. The ongoing inquiry aims to provide clarity on the full extent of her health issues and how they impacted her final days.