Talk show host Drew Barrymore recently revealed she's received warnings about being too physically affectionate with guests on her show. During Tuesday's episode of "The Drew Barrymore Show," the host discussed the topic with actress Cynthia Erivo while talking about physical connections.
"I'm so touchy!" Barrymore admitted during their conversation. "People have to warn me. They're like, 'Back off a little bit.' And I'm like, 'Why?'"
The 49-year-old host, known for her warm and intimate interview style that often includes hugging and holding hands with guests, acknowledged she's working on maintaining appropriate "proximity" and "physical distance" during the show's fifth season.
Erivo, who stars in "Wicked" alongside Ariana Grande, shared her own perspective on physical touch, describing how she and Grande frequently communicate through subtle physical gestures. "Sometimes you can't say anything and you're in a room and it's just a squeeze of the hand," Erivo explained, noting that she and Grande often walk hand-in-hand.
The 37-year-old actress challenged common assumptions about physical contact, stating, "I think we get a bit afraid of physical connection. I think we assume that physical connection can only be romantic."
Barrymore, who mentioned being single and not dating, expressed her strong belief in physical connection: "I don't know how I would ever hold back from holding hands, hugging, snuggling."
The conversation concluded with both women advocating for more acceptance of platonic physical touch. "I think if we could all be more comfortable with physical touch, I would like that world," Barrymore said, with Erivo showing her agreement by reaching for the host's hand.
The discussion highlighted the ongoing debate about appropriate boundaries in professional settings while acknowledging the value of genuine human connection.
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