Drew Barrymore Defends Close Proximity to Guests on Talk Show Amid Criticism

Drew Barrymore has addressed the criticism surrounding her tendency to sit closely to her celebrity guests on her talk show, "The Drew Barrymore Show," which has recently been renewed for a sixth season. The 48-year-old actress has faced backlash for what some have described as "creepy and clingy" behavior, but she insists that her motivation stems from her desire to connect with people. Barrymore emphasized the importance of joy and laughter, particularly during the pandemic, when she aimed to create a feel-good atmosphere for her audience. The upcoming fifth season of "The Drew Barrymore Show" is set to premiere on September 9 on CBS, following an early renewal that highlights the show's success and its dedicated viewership. The program has been praised for Barrymore's warmth and spontaneity, with recent upgrades pairing her show with a CBS Mornings lead-in, enhancing its appeal and reach. Social media reactions to Barrymore's interview style have been mixed, with some users expressing discomfort over her physical closeness to guests, particularly during a recent interaction with Oprah Winfrey. Observers noted Winfrey's body language suggesting she was not accustomed to such proximity, leading to a variety of opinions online about personal boundaries in celebrity interviews. In defense of her approach, Barrymore described her interview style as a natural expression of her enthusiasm and connection to her guests, stating, "I feel this magnetic pull... I'm on my knees, I'm hugging."