I’m excited to share the story of acclaimed actress Cameron Diaz and her decision to step away from Hollywood for over a decade, only to now make a comeback with several new and highly anticipated projects.
At the recent Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Summit, Diaz candidly opened up about her reasons for leaving the limelight, stating, “For me, it was just something I had to do. It felt like something I had to do to reclaim my own life.”
The “Charlie’s Angels” star made it clear that no amount of success, opportunities, or financial offers could sway her from her decision to prioritize her personal life and well-being.
“Nobody’s opinion, nobody’s success, no one’s offer—nothing could change my mind about my decision to take care of myself and build the life that I really wanted to have,” Diaz emphasized.
Indeed, Diaz has spent the last 11 years focused on her family, marrying Benji Madden and welcoming two children, as well as launching her own business ventures, including the popular wine brand Avaline.
“It really comes down to: What are you passionate about?” For me, it was to build my family,” the actress shared.
Now, Diaz is ready to make her return to the big screen with her upcoming role in the Netflix action comedy “Back in Action” alongside her longtime friend and collaborator, Jamie Foxx. January 2025 marks the film’s premiere.
“I couldn’t say no to Jamie. He said, ‘Come with me,’ and I said, ‘OK, let’s do it’; it’s our third film together, so it’s really great,” Diaz explained.
The actress is also in talks to reprise her voice role as Princess Fiona in the upcoming fifth installment of the “Shrek” franchise, further expanding her acting comeback.
“After COVID, we were in the house for a long time, which was amazing, and the problem was we would probably stay there; we would still be there right now,” Diaz said, speaking of her decision to return to Hollywood. “So I had to push myself; my husband and I—my husband, who is the best—were like, “You’ve been supporting us and building the family” and supporting him in his businesses; he’s like, “It’s time for us to support you and let Mommy ascend and do her thing.”
With a newfound passion for family life and entrepreneurship, Cameron Diaz has proven that sometimes the best path forward is stepping away from the spotlight to reclaim one’s own life. Now, as she embarks on her return to acting, her fans eagerly await the next chapter in this acclaimed performer’s storied career.