Title: Drew Barrymore Addresses Controversial Decision to Resume Talk Show Amid Writers Guild Strike
Introduction:
Actress and talk show host Drew Barrymore has spoken up about her reasoning behind the controversial choice to resume production of “The Drew Barrymore Show” despite the ongoing Writers Guild strike. In a video statement posted on Instagram, Barrymore acknowledged the backlash she has received and emphasized the importance of complying with strike rules.
Body:
Barrymore, in her video message, reiterated that her talk show would be returning in compliance with the WGA’s strike rules. The decision has faced criticism from both union members and the WGA itself, as picketing continues outside CBS Broadcast Center in New York. However, Barrymore stood firm in her decision, stating, “We aren’t gonna break rules, and we will be in compliance. I wanted to do this because as I said, this is bigger than me, and there are other people’s jobs on the line.”
Addressing the accusations that a “PR machine” influenced the decision, Barrymore denied any external influence and took full responsibility for her actions. She stated, “My decision to go back to the show — I didn’t want to hide behind people. I won’t polish this with bells and whistles and publicists and corporate rhetoric. I’ll just stand out there and accept and be responsible.”
It is important to note that CBS Media Ventures, the production company behind “The Drew Barrymore Show,” is part of Paramount Global, one of the media companies affected by the writers’ strike. While daytime talk shows like Barrymore’s employ WGA writers, they typically have fewer writers compared to late night shows or scripted series. Two other WGA-covered shows, CBS’ “The Talk” and the Warner Bros.-distributed “Jennifer Hudson Show,” are also set to return soon, with pickets likely outside both shows.
Barrymore justified her choice to resume the show by citing her and the show’s experiences during the pandemic. She expressed her desire to provide support and entertainment to people during sensitive times, saying, “if we could go on during a global pandemic, and everything that the world experienced through 2020, why would this sideline us?”
Conclusion:
Drew Barrymore has faced criticism for deciding to resume production of her talk show amidst the ongoing Writers Guild strike. In a video statement, she stood by her decision, emphasizing compliance with strike rules and the importance of supporting the livelihoods of those involved. While the controversy persists, CBS’ “The Drew Barrymore Show” joins other WGA-covered shows resuming production, raising questions about the impact of the strike on the entertainment industry.