Drew Barrymore has made a tough call regarding her daytime television show, “The Drew Barrymore Show.” Originally set to return on September 18, the premiere faced heavy backlash due to an ongoing writer’s strike. In response to viewers’ protests, Barrymore decided to pause the show until the strike concludes, airing repeat episodes for now.

“The Drew Barrymore Show,” affectionately known as “Drew,” first debuted in 2020. The strike by members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) disrupted production for many shows, particularly scripted ones. Some paused work in solidarity, but Barrymore initially expressed her intent to continue her program’s new season.

In a now-deleted Instagram video, she defended her decision, emphasizing her responsibility for the show’s team and the desire to be there for viewers during tough times.

However, critics pointed out her earlier gesture of solidarity when she stepped down as host of the MTV Movie and TV Awards. The backlash intensified when the National Book Foundation dropped her as an award ceremony host due to prominent writers’ criticism.

Ultimately, Barrymore reversed her decision, acknowledging the need to halt production until the strike ends. The few new episodes taped before this reversal won’t air. The Writers Guild of America canceled a planned picket of the show in response.

Barrymore publicly apologized, understanding the impact of her choices on the show’s team and viewers. Following her lead, other programs, including “The Talk” and “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” also postponed their return in light of the strike.