Drew Barrymore has faced backlash on multiple occasions for being too touchy with guests on The Drew Barrymore Show. Her latest viral scenario was with Martha Stewart, who could not handle the physical closeness and pushed drew off of her on live TV.
The 49-year-old recently hosted Cynthia Erivo, who played Elphaba in the recently released Wicked movie. Erivo’s press runs with her co-star Ariana Grande have shown that both of them are touchy, so Drew felt a bit more at home.
Drew Barrymore is worried she might be too touchy after being warned by others
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Drew admitted that people have tried to warn her about being too touchy. Erivo could relate to Drew, as her co-star and friend shows affection in the same way. The 37-year-old said she has grown used to Ariana’s touchiness and even gets worried when they are not connected.
According to Erivo, people may be scared of physical connection with anyone other than their romantic partner. She highlighted the importance of touch as a way of communicating, noting how Ariana often uses a hand squeeze or a pinch to speak with her when they are unable to discuss.
Drew Barrymore does not hold back on getting touchy with Cynthia Erivo
Having created a safe space for touchy people and defending Ariana, Erivo got a lot of physical touch from Drew, who felt seen. Drew said she wished more people would understand her and get comfortable with being touched.
Both ladies went in for a big bear hug, which was relieving for Drew, who had to be conscious of how guests would react to her touch. She also acknowledged Wicked’s feat as the highest-grossing film based on a Broadway musical, saying she feels lucky to be hugging a record-breaking actress. Erivo and Ariana’s promotional media runs have featured viral moments where they both get emotional, tearing up and holding each other on cue.