Drew Barrymore's talk show interview style has sparked backlash once again, with the host admitting she has been warned to 'back off' from guests due to her overly tactile approach. The 49-year-old actor and presenter, known for sitting extremely close to her interviewees on a sofa, discussed her habits during a recent episode of The Drew Barrymore Show.
In an episode aired on Tuesday (10 December), Barrymore spoke with Wicked star Cynthia Erivo about physical touch. Erivo, 37, revealed she and co-star Ariana Grande often walk hand in hand, explaining that physical connection can be platonic. Barrymore interjected: 'People have to warn me. They're like, “Back off a little bit.” I'm like, “Why?”'
Barrymore has previously promised to work on maintaining physical distance from guests. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, she said: 'I'll try to practice physical distance, which is not my strong point. Do you know how hard the pandemic was for me? I was alone in a studio by myself! I like to be around people!'
The host's intimate style has drawn criticism in the past, with some viewers finding it uncomfortable. However, Barrymore continues to defend her approach, citing a desire for connection. The conversation with Erivo also touched on the viral moment when Grande held Erivo's finger during a confused exchange about the phrase 'holding space'.
