10 Timeless Icons of Rom-Coms: Queens and Kings Who Defined the Genre (5 of 6)

3. Drew Barrymore

Although Drew Barrymore, granddaughter of legendary actor John Barrymore, first introduced herself when she landed the role of little Gertie in the groundbreaking Steven Spielberg science fiction movie E.T the Extra-Terrestrial, she created an entirely new legacy for herself as an adult through a slew of romantic comedies released in the 1990s through 2000s. It’s hard to argue that her most popular rom-coms were The Wedding Singer and 50 First Dates, both of which had her paired up with Adam Sandler, and which is why she gets to claim the honor of rom-com queen.

2. Adam Sandler 

Adam Sandler is a household name in the world of rom-coms, known for his unique blend of humor and heart. He’s the guy who brought us the laughs in The Wedding Singer, where he mixed comedy with a sweet love story. Sandler’s charm in 50 First Dates, alongside Drew Barrymore, showed a softer side to his usually slapstick humor, making it a memorable hit. His role in Just Go With It had audiences both laughing and rooting for love. What makes Sandler stand out is his ability to turn the most absurd situations into something endearing and relatable. He’s not just a comedian; he’s a rom-com king who knows how to strike the perfect balance between funny and romantic.