The 61-year-old comedian, who presented hit television game show 'Strike It Lucky', suffered a major blow in his career after a man named Stuart Lubbock was found dead in his pool in 2001, reported Daily Mirror.
Barrymore's career was further damaged when he got arrested in 2001 for cocaine possession.
"I was offered something yesterday. It is actually for an acting part. I think the role will surprise people," Barrymore said.
"It's dark. When I read the script I was excited and got a good feeling about it. Acting's my comfort zone. That's what I grew up doing, but comedy took over." he added.