Actor Drew Barrymore has issued a heartfelt apology to the striking Hollywood writers, although she plans to go ahead with her talk show’s resumption next week.
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) has been protesting against Drew Barrymore, accusing her of violating the terms of their work stoppage by filming new episodes of ‘The Drew Barrymore Show’, set to air on Monday.
In an emotional video posted on Instagram, Drew Barrymore expressed her remorse to the writers and unions involved. “I deeply apologize to writers. I deeply apologize to unions,” she said.
However, she decided to proceed with the show partly because she recognized that “other people’s jobs are on the line.” With thousands of crew members unemployed since the strike began in May, and production halted due to the SAG-AFTRA actors union walkout in July, resuming the show would provide some relief for those affected.
Drew Barrymore also emphasized that she wanted to create a show that would support people during sensitive times.
Despite the protests, Barrymore believes her show will comply with strike restrictions. She acknowledged that not everyone will be satisfied with her decision, saying, “There’s nothing I can do to make this okay to those this is not okay with. I fully accept that.”
Other talk shows, like ‘Real Time’ hosted by Bill Maher, are also planning to return to TV soon. Maher intends to bring back his HBO show without written pieces, focusing on guest debates instead. However, the WGA has voiced concerns over Maher’s ability to host the show while adhering to strike rules, and union members plan to picket the filming of ‘Real Time’.
The situation remains uncertain, but Drew Barrymore’s apology demonstrates her understanding and sympathy for the writers’ cause as she strives to balance the needs of her show and the well-being of those in the industry.