Cameron Diaz is returning to Hollywood after hitting rock bottom

After nearly a decade away from the limelight, Cameron Diaz his much-anticipated return to Hollywood.

The beloved actress known for her roles in films such as There's Something About Mary and “Holiday”, retired from the industry after reaching what she described as her “breaking point”. Burnt out and overwhelmed by the relentless demands of fame, Diaz took a much-needed break to focus on herself, her family, and her well-being.

Now refreshed, refocused and with a new passion for her craft, Cameron Diaz is ready to get back in front of the camera.

By the time “Annie” premiered in 2014, she had starred in 38 films over two decades. “It's so intense to work at that level and be so public and express yourself,” she shared with her friend. Gwyneth Paltrow during 2020 Goop an interview. “You always have a lot of energy coming through.”

Realizing the toll it had taken, Cameron chose to step away from Hollywood to prioritize her well-being and focus on starting the family she had always dreamed of. In 2015, she married Good Charlotte guitarist Benji Madden, and in December 2019 they welcomed their daughter Radix together, followed by son Cardinal in March.

“Cameron was burnt out,” the source revealed Us Weekly. “And her priorities changed.”

In 2022, Cameron Diaz opened up to Rule Breakers podcast host Michelle Visage, saying that while she was away from Hollywood, she “came in and did some really deep, personal healing.” Stepping away from the spotlight, she needed space to focus on her well-being, and it took years before she felt ready to return to the industry.

“Cameron feels like she's settled now and is in a good place mentally,” the source revealed. “She has a fresh perspective on work and the industry as a whole.” With a refreshed outlook and sense of poise, Diaz approaches her Hollywood comeback with clarity and purpose.

Her highly-anticipated comeback begins with the Netflix action comedy Back in Action, which premieres on January 17, in which she co-stars. Jamie Foxx as a married couple of former CIA agents forced to return to the world of espionage after their identities are compromised.

But that's not all, Diaz has been busy filming the upcoming Apple TV+ thriller Los Angeles Out with Keanu Reeves and Matt Bomer, and is set to reprise her role as Princess Fiona in Shrek 5, which is slated for release in July 2026.

According to sources, her choice to return to acting “evolved over time,” noting that “it wasn't sudden. While she is returning to movies, she is very “selective about future projects,” making it clear that her children, her husband Benji Madden, and their quiet life in Montecito, California, remain her top priorities.

Aside from motherhood and returning to acting, Cameron Diaz also has passions and projects. In 2020, she co-launched her organic wine brand, Avaline, which remains a top priority. “It takes precedence over acting,” the source said, emphasizing her dedication to business.

Diaz has also written two books on health and longevity, demonstrating her deep interest in wellness and self-care. “Cameron is passionate about Avalyn and also enjoys wellness, food and exploring other creative endeavors,” shared another. Us Weekly. “Her goal is to do projects – whether acting, business or family life – that feel meaningful and authentic.”

Benji Madden has been a constant source of love and support for Cameron Diaz since they first fell in love in 2014. The couple was introduced by Diaz's close friend Nicole Richie, who had married Benji's twin brother Joel Madden in 2010.

Reflecting on their first meeting in 2021, Diaz shared, “I saw him walking towards me and I was like, 'Huh, he's hot.'” But it wasn't just his looks that attracted her. he was – it made me be like, 'Oh you, you're special, you're the guy.

Their bond was undeniable from the start. “Cameron said she knew almost immediately that Benjy was different. He felt the same way. Their connection was immediate and natural,” the source said.

“They are a team,” the source shares. “They always lift each other up and prioritize each other's happiness.” This strong partnership became even more evident when Diaz returned to acting and Madden began caring for their two young children. “Benji is a very hands-on dad and extremely helpful,” the source added.