Sarah Drew on Faith, Family, and Career Choices

Grey’s Anatomy star Sarah Drew discovered enduring love prior to her Hollywood success. She met her husband, Peter Lanfer, nearly thirty years ago at a Christian youth camp. Married for 24 years, Drew credits their shared faith with helping her handle Hollywood’s challenges. The couple has two children.

“He’s been my steady rock and safe haven, even before my career took off,” Drew shared while promoting her new movie, Jimmy. She highlighted that their partnership extends beyond parenting, providing mutual support when facing life’s uncertainties. Lanfer’s grounding influence has been vital for her.

Drew sees Hollywood as unpredictable, where fame can vanish overnight. She resists letting it define her self-worth. “Hollywood easily makes you question who you are. One moment, you’re loved, then forgotten. Beauty fades, and work becomes scarce. Stability is an illusion in this industry.”

She maintains stability through her faith, describing herself as a child of God foremost. This belief keeps her grounded beyond acting success. “My spiritual identity surpasses any career label. Without this foundation, I could be swayed by Hollywood’s changing values,” Drew explained.

Drew’s latest film is Jimmy, set for release on November 6. It depicts actor James Stewart’s life post-military service and his return to Hollywood with the 1946 classic It’s a Wonderful Life. Drew plays gossip columnist Hedda Hopper, an opportunity she eagerly accepted.

Her Christian faith affects acting choices significantly. She chooses roles with positive, hopeful messages over those lacking clear purpose. “I’ve turned down roles that offer only cynicism. Stories should inspire hope,” she stated. Her family’s participation in evaluating these decisions emphasizes their shared values and priorities.

“Discussions with my husband and aligning on stories’ messages guide my choices,” Drew said. She looks for narratives that resonate and connect with audiences personally. “I prefer stories that reflect redemption and understanding, fostering connections among viewers.”