Drew Barrymore, the beloved host of The Drew Barrymore Show, has recently made headlines by opening up about her decision to return to her daytime talk show amidst the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. In an Instagram statement, Barrymore revealed that earlier this year, she had walked away from her hosting duties at the MTV Movie & TV Awards as a show of support for the writers. However, as the new season of her talk show approaches, Barrymore has decided to come back, emphasizing that her return is about something much bigger than herself.
Reflecting on her previous choice to step away from the MTV event, Barrymore highlighted the conflict between hosting the awards and the primary concerns of the strike, including studios, streamers, film, and television. Back then, it was the first week of the strike, and Barrymore believed that standing in solidarity with the writers was the appropriate action to take. Yet, as she prepares for the upcoming season of her talk show, she acknowledges the importance of returning and continuing to provide a platform for shared experiences and community.
Compliance with Strike Rules
Set to air on Monday, September 18, The Drew Barrymore Show Season 4 will adhere to the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strike rules. Barrymore takes full responsibility for this decision, ensuring that there will be no discussions or promotions regarding struck films or television shows. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic, the show was conceived to cater to sensitive times and has consistently reflected the real-world experiences that viewers are going through. By returning for the new season, Barrymore hopes to carry on the tradition of offering solace, understanding, and connection through the power of storytelling.
Expressing her desire for a swift resolution for all parties involved in the strikes, Barrymore shares her commitment to continuing the show with humility and insight. The Drew Barrymore Show has weathered difficult times since its inception and remains steadfast in its mission to provide the kind of storytelling prowess that writers excel at. Barrymore’s step forward symbolizes her determination to contribute to the collective human experience and foster unity in the face of adversity.
No Writing Work Covered by the WGA Strike
In response to the concerns raised by the strikes, a spokesperson from CBS Media Ventures has confirmed that The Drew Barrymore Show will not engage in any writing work covered by the WGA strike. This statement underlines the show’s commitment to operating within the boundaries set by the strike and supporting the cause of the writers.
WGAE Picketing of the Show
Adding further complexity to the situation, the Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE) has announced its intention to picket The Drew Barrymore Show starting Monday, September 11. This demonstration highlights the ongoing tension between the show and the writers’ union, underscoring the importance of fair representation and negotiations during these trying times.
With her return to The Drew Barrymore Show, Drew Barrymore demonstrates a remarkable resilience and a conscious decision to stand in solidarity with the writers’ strikes. As the new season commences, her dedication to providing a space for shared experiences and meaningful storytelling shines through. Despite the challenges and hurdles faced, the show carries on, navigating uncharted territory with humility and an unwavering commitment to the human spirit.