Drew Barrymore Says She Feels ‘Shame & Embarrassment’ Over Feedback That She’s Too Touchy With Guests

The Drew Barrymore Show may be losing its usual openly affectionate atmosphere. Recently, the beloved talk show host has been addressing complaints that her style is invasive to guests. “I will try to practice physical distance, which is not my strong point,” Drew delicately admitted, tucking her hair behind her ear during an interview with Entertainment Tonight (ET).

Barrymore opened up about her “shame and embarrassment” for being too touchy on her show in discussion with Dax Sheperd, the host of the ArmChair Expert podcast. The charming talk show host may not be open to changing her interview style, but she remains self-aware. 

The show premiered on September 24, 2020, just months before COVID-19 hit the United States and the world. Drew Barrymore’s wholesome personality served as a vital comfort for Americans during a period of isolation. Since its inception, the show has been known for its emotional interviews and physical affection. It has hosted high-profile guests like Oprah Winfrey, Renee Rapp, and Cameron Diaz.

Unsurprisingly, the topic of Drew’s physical proximity has followed her since the early days of the show. While many fans praise the sentimentality, others have been critical of the excessive touching. Even stars like Bethenny Frankel have expressed discomfort. In a TikTok video, Frankel stated that she would “feel deeply uncomfortable” being embraced by Drew Barrymore in the same manner as Oprah Winfrey.

Barrymore has garnered many fans, boasting that 1.1 million people tune in weekly to join her in the cozy atmosphere. Her touchy-feely approach to interviews may not be traditional, but it is effective. It brings a crave-able family atmosphere to a show on Wednesday at 9:00 am. 

This is not the first time Barrymore has faced backlash while hosting The Drew Barrymore Show. Last summer, during the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike, the host decided to bring the show back on air, crossing picket lines. This decision led to four of her showwriters resigning. After significant backlash and reflection, Barrymore quickly reversed the decision.

Despite criticisms of Drew Barrymore’s overly affectionate nature, CBS has announced that the show will be renewed for a sixth season. This preliminary announcement came before the fifth season premiere, which aired at 9:00 a.m. Eastern time. “Drew is a one-of-a-kind talent who is an integral part of the CBS and Paramount family,” said Wendy McMahon, CEO and president of CBS News and CBS Media Ventures, in a statement.