On Monday, The Drew Barrymore Show taped its first episode since the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes began back in June and July, respectively. The move had fans baffled, because while Barrymore herself is not in violation of her union contracts, resuming production does require writers who would be in violation of WGA strike rules.
Barrymore laid out all of her reasons as to why production is resuming on The Drew Barrymore Show on social media on Monday. “I own this choice. We are in compliance with not discussing or promoting film and television that is struck of any kind. We launched live in a global pandemic. Our show was built for sensitive times and has only functioned through what the real world is going through in real time,” she explained on Instagram.
“I want to be there to provide what writers do so well, which is a way to bring us together or help us make sense of the human experience. I hope for a resolve for everyone as soon as possible. We have navigated difficult times since we first came on air. And so I take a step forward to start season 4 once again with an astute humility.”
Still, this explanation didn’t seem to be valid to many, including the National Book Awards committee, which has rescinded Barrymore’s invitation to host the 74th Annual National Book Awards in November.
“The National Book Awards is an evening dedicated to celebrating the power of literature, and the incomparable contributions of writers to our culture,” the National Book Foundation, which presents the awards show, said in a statement Tuesday, per NPR. “In light of the announcement that The Drew Barrymore Show will resume production, the National Book Foundation has rescinded Ms. Barrymore’s invitation to host the 74th National Book Awards Ceremony.”
Barrymore, who is an avid reader and an author herself, was supposed to host the event along with special guest Oprah Winfrey.
“Our commitment is to ensure that the focus of the Awards remains on celebrating writers and books, and we are grateful to Ms. Barrymore and her team for their understanding in this situation,” the statement concluded.
It seems like the fallout from Barrymore’s choice to resume her show and hire scabbing writers is only just beginning. If production on Season 4 continues throughout the strikes, Barrymore might lose a lot more than hosting gigs.
Before you go, click here to see all the celebrities who supported the SAG-AFTRA & WGA strikes.
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