Drew Barrymore recently expressed enthusiasm for reuniting with her longtime costars Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston in a potential remake of the 1992 dark comedy Death Becomes Her. The suggestion came during a segment on her daytime talk show, where Barrymore highlighted the idea as a fun project to explore, centered around the popular cult classic film.
Background of the Original Film and Its Legacy
The original Death Becomes Her, directed by Robert Zemeckis, starred Meryl Streep as Madeline, alongside Goldie Hawn, Bruce Willis, and Isabella Rossellini. The dark comedy focused on themes of immortality and vanity, winning an Academy Award for its groundbreaking visual effects. The movie’s cult status was further cemented when it inspired a Broadway adaptation.
Connections Among Barrymore, Sandler, and Aniston
The idea to collaborate again arose when Barrymore was asked which actor might tempt her to return to film, following her last major role in the Netflix series Santa Clarita Diet, which ended in 2019. Barrymore immediately named Adam Sandler, recalling their work together in several romantic comedies such as The Wedding Singer (1998), 50 First Dates (2004), and Blended (2014).
Barrymore also expressed a desire to work alongside both Sandler and Aniston at once, stating,
“Adam knows that I really want to work with him and Jennifer Aniston, together. They both know that.”
—Drew Barrymore, actress and talk show host
Previously, Barrymore and Aniston appeared together in the ensemble film He’s Just Not That Into You (2003), while Aniston and Sandler have also collaborated on multiple projects. Their shared history adds an exciting dimension to Barrymore’s proposed idea of a remake.
Discussions About Other Possible Reboots Involving the Trio
In addition to the Death Becomes Her remake, all three actors have hinted at reviving the classic 1970s sitcom Three’s Company, which originally featured John Ritter, Joyce DeWitt, and Suzanne Somers. The sitcom followed the humorous living arrangement of a man sharing an apartment with two women in Santa Monica, Calif.
During 2023, Barrymore, Sandler, and Aniston talked about this possibility on Barrymore’s show while Aniston and Sandler were promoting their film Murder Mystery 2. Barrymore even offered to assume the role of Janet, played by Joyce DeWitt in the original, explaining that Aniston was reluctant to cut her hair short for the part.
Barrymore’s Experience with Successful Remakes
Drew Barrymore has a proven track record in reviving classic franchises, having starred in and produced the 2000 and 2003 Charlie’s Angels films. Those movies collectively earned over $523 million worldwide, underscoring her ability to successfully lead projects that reimagine beloved properties.
Potential Impact of a Death Becomes Her Remake
If the remake of Death Becomes Her featuring Barrymore, Sandler, and Aniston comes to fruition, it could draw significant attention due to the cast’s strong chemistry and nostalgic appeal. Given the cult status of the original and Barrymore’s strong connection to her co-stars, the project stands as an exciting prospect in Hollywood’s ongoing interest in reviving classic hits for new audiences.
