Cameron Diaz Makes a Triumphant Return to Acting After Family Break

Cameron Diaz reached a turning point in her life. When "Annie" was released in 2014, it became her 38th film in 20 years. "It’s so intense to work at that level and be that public," she shared with Gwyneth Paltrow during a 2020 Goop interview. "There’s a lot of energy coming at you at all times." Consequently, she took a significant step back from Hollywood to prioritize herself and her family. In 2015, she married rock musician Benji Madden, welcoming daughter Raddix in December 2019 and son Cardinal in March. "Cameron was burnt out," a source informed Us Weekly, "and her priorities shifted."

After an eventful decade, Diaz is stepping back into the spotlight. Her new Netflix movie, "Back in Action," premieres on January 17. The film features her alongside Jamie Foxx as married former CIA agents who return to espionage when their identities are exposed. In May, she filmed the upcoming Apple TV+ project, "Outcome," with Keanu Reeves and Matt Bomer. Diaz will also star in "Shrek 5," set to release in July 2026. Another source noted that Diaz’s decision to return to acting "evolved over time," emphasizing that it wasn’t an immediate change. In October, she stated at Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Summit that "it was just the right time for my family."

Her future in acting will be on her terms. "Cameron [is] very selective about future projects," the first source shared. She prioritizes her children, Madden, and their calm life in Montecito, California. "I’m not defining anything," Diaz told
Empire about her return, "I’m just open to whatever makes sense for me and my family."

A New Perspective

According to the first source, Diaz was unsure about ever making another film. After burning the candle at both ends for two decades, she reflected: "[I] looked around and [saw] there were so many parts of my life that I wasn’t touching." On Hart to Heart in 2021, she stated her choice to leave showbiz was not due to disliking the industry, but rather regrouping. The first source indicated that "Having kids was something she always wanted, but didn’t feel like she could while in Hollywood."

During her hiatus, Diaz embraced "deep, personal healing." Interviewed in 2022, she revealed it took years for her to feel ready to return. "Cameron feels like she’s settled now and is in a good place mentally," noted the source. "She has a new outlook on work and the industry as a whole." Reuniting with Foxx, her co-star from 1999’s "Any Given Sunday," motivated her return. "Only you could get me back in action," she wrote in a June 2022 Instagram post directed at Foxx. Their undeniable chemistry shone through on set, leading to laughter and enjoyment. Diaz had initial nerves but rediscovered her love for acting.

Happy Marriage

Throughout this process, Madden provided steady encouragement. "[Benji] said, ‘You’ve been supporting us … It’s time for us to support you,’" she revealed in October. The first source remarked, "He cheered her on every step of the way."

Diaz met Madden through her friend Nicole Richie in 2014. "I saw him walking towards me, and I was like, ‘Huh, he’s hot,’" she recalled in 2021. Their attraction was instant, with the second source stating that both felt a unique connection right away. Their bond is founded on mutual respect and open communication. "They’re a team," said the second source. "They’re always lifting each other up." Madden also plays a key role in managing their two kids while Diaz works. Diaz shared that therapy is crucial for their family, stating, "[It’s] a big thing in our family."

The couple will quietly celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary on January 5. "Cameron and Benji value intimate and personal milestones," the second source explained. They prefer low-key activities, such as cooking and quiet walks. They frequently spend time with Richie and her husband, aiming to gather as a big family often. Diaz has relied on Richie’s support for parenting advice.

Raddix and Cardinal are treasured by both parents. "There’s lots of love and laughter at home," noted the second source. The couple purchased a $13 million mansion in Montecito in 2022. "They enjoy privacy and a peaceful life," the first source added. They appreciate the local cafes and beaches, fostering a slower lifestyle for raising their kids. Regarding more children, both sources state they are content with having two, highlighting their happiness as a family.

Looking Ahead

In addition to motherhood and upcoming films, Diaz is pursuing other interests. She launched her organic wine brand, Avaline, in 2020, which is a primary focus. "It takes precedence over acting," shared the first source. Additionally, she has authored two books on health and longevity. "Cameron is passionate about Avaline and values wellness," noted the second source. Her aim is to engage in meaningful and authentic projects—be they in acting, business, or family life.

For more information on Diaz, watch the exclusive video above and check out the latest issue of Us Weekly—now on newsstands.

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