Martha Stewart appeared less than thrilled during her latest appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, where the famously tactile host, Drew Barrymore, got a bit too close for comfort. As Drew attempted to make a personal connection with her guest by lightly rubbing Stewart’s back, Martha’s reaction made it clear that the approach wasn’t exactly welcome.
Promoting Her New Cookbook
At 83, Stewart joined Drew’s show to discuss her new release, Martha: The Cookbook, which showcases her extensive culinary expertise. However, the conversation quickly turned personal when Drew shifted closer on the couch and inquired whether anything made Martha feel “soft and gooey.” Barrymore’s lighthearted attempt to find a softer side to the lifestyle mogul took an unexpected turn as she began gently caressing Stewart’s shoulder. Stewart, with a polite but slightly uncomfortable smile, briefly endured the gesture before subtly pushing Barrymore away.
Martha’s Response: Lighthearted Yet Firm
Seeming slightly puzzled, Stewart initially responded to Barrymore’s “soft and gooey” question with a bit of humor. “Soft and gooey … treatment,” she said, trying to match the lighthearted tone. When Barrymore playfully said, “When you’re treated like a lady” and continued the shoulder rub, Martha, in good humor but with a hint of firmness, gave a knowing glance to the audience and wryly responded, “You’re the wrong gender.” The remark drew laughter from the audience and Barrymore, who then theatrically threw herself onto the opposite end of the couch, saying, “I know…although, with how things are going with men these days, I’m not so sure anymore.”
Drew’s Known “Touchy-Feely” Style
Barrymore’s warm and tactile approach is something her fans and guests are well aware of, often leading her to physically connect with her guests during conversations. Earlier this year, Drew defended her hands-on hosting style in an interview with Entertainment Tonight, acknowledging that she sometimes lacks a sense of physical distance. She explained, “I will try to practice physical distance, though it’s not my strong point. We’re always big on joy and laughter and feeling good. That’s what I wanted to bring, even if it sometimes feels a bit wacky.”
Navigating Joy in Unusual Times
Barrymore also reflected on launching her show amid a global pandemic, which required everyone to redefine personal space. Leaning into her natural sense of warmth and humor was part of her way of bringing positivity to audiences. The unique, hands-on style that Barrymore brings to her interviews aims to foster connection, joy, and feel-good moments, even if it sometimes means crossing into guests’ personal space. For Barrymore, this approach embodies her style, helping her connect with both her guests and audience, particularly in an era where maintaining joy has been challenging.
Stewart’s Boundaries and Barrymore’s Enthusiasm
Despite Barrymore’s touchy-feely nature, Stewart’s reaction highlighted the importance of respecting personal boundaries, even on lighthearted talk shows. For someone as seasoned in public life as Stewart, a little gentle humor and light distancing maintained her composure while still engaging with Barrymore’s enthusiasm.
Finding the Balance in Interview Dynamics
Drew Barrymore’s animated approach and Stewart’s calm, composed reaction underscore the balance between creating meaningful, close interactions and respecting personal comfort zones. In this instance, Barrymore’s affectionate antics made for entertaining television, showcasing the dynamic interaction between two high-profile personalities who approach public interaction in different ways. While Barrymore’s warmth and Stewart’s wit kept the segment engaging, it also highlighted the varied approaches to personal boundaries in the media spotlight.
A Continued Chemistry Despite Different Styles
Ultimately, the exchange on The Drew Barrymore Show showcased Barrymore’s unique interview style—one that’s built on a foundation of joy and physical connection—and Stewart’s steady demeanor. By navigating these differences with humor, both stars created an unforgettable moment, balancing Drew’s warmth with Martha’s poised yet playful style.
