Jessica Blyth Barrymore’s life was short-lived, but her story is still significant to this day. She was the half-sister of the famous American actress, director, and producer Drew Barrymore. Jessica was born on July 31, 1966, and died on July 29, 2014, just on the eve of her birthday.
In this article, we will delve into the life of Jessica Blyth Barrymore, her family, issues, and tragic death.
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Jessica’s Family
According to Jessica’s Facebook page, she studied in San Diego, where she attended a Performing and Creative Arts school. A witness claimed that she was working at a Petco store before her death. Jessica was the daughter of John Drew Barrymore’s third wife, Nina Rae. Her mother was an actress in the past, and she starred in Luv, a romantic comedy movie alongside Jack Lemmon.
Jessica was 9 years older than her half-sister Drew, and the two only occasionally talked. They didn’t have that much bond. Additionally, she had two paternal half-brothers, Blyth and John Blyth Barrymore, all older than her. Her maternal half-brothers, Casey and David Wheeler, were younger than her.
Jessica’s Family Life Had Many Issues
Jessica’s family life was complicated, and the relationship with her family was troublesome that she had to move out to go live with Dorothy Steinbeck, her surrogate mother, at the age of 15. However, she later moved out of Dorothy’s house at 18, following her growing use of meth.
Jessica’s Issues
Jessica seemed to have a couple of problems based on family resources. She was said to be a meth addict and was battling energy drinks addiction, self-esteem issues, mental stability issues, and alcoholism addiction.
Her low self-esteem issues mainly resulted from the constant dislike and reminders she was getting about her outgrown weight. There were also speculations that she had a troubled relationship with her father and Drew Barrymore.
The digs concluded that her father was ever on a quest to criticize and remind her of being excessively overweight. Her half-sister added to the already itching wound, saying that she couldn’t be her sister since she was so fat, causing her self-esteem issues.
The hurting words haunted her at an early age, and the results were felt even in her adult life.
Jessica’s Death
Everything has an end, and it’s speculated that Jessica was at the limit of battling her self-esteem, criticism against her weight, and alcohol and drug addiction. It is believed that Jessica took an overdose on drugs and alcohol.
Her body was discovered in San Diego inside her car, with many pills scattered all over her car’s seat. Her vehicle was blocking other cars, and when one person called the cops suspecting something, that’s when her dead body was found.
Even though no official statements were made about the cause of Jessica Blyth Barrymore’s death, some online comments suggested that she could have died from an overdose or committed suicide. It was a sad ending for Jessica. One of her friends stated that Jessica was excited lately, especially about her coming birthday and didn’t think she wished to die.
The legacy of Jessica Blyth Barrymore
Jessica Blyth Barrymore’s life was one that was riddled with struggles, and she was not known for her acting or directing skills like her half-sister Drew. Still, her story is a poignant reminder of how the problems that arise from low self-esteem can cause untold damage.
The hurtful words spoken to Jessica from a young age remained with her for the rest of her life.