Drew Barrymore 'deeply apologises' to unions ahead of show return

Shutterstock

Actor Drew Barrymore issued a video apology to striking Hollywood writers on Friday but said she would go forward with plans to resume her talk show next week.

Barrymore has been subject to protests by members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA), who argue that she is violating terms of their work stoppage by filming new episodes of "The Drew Barrymore Show." The first is scheduled to air on Monday.

In a video posted on Instagram, Barrymore's voice quivered as she addressed the backlash.

"I deeply apologise to the writers. I deeply apologise to unions," she said.

Barrymore said she decided to go forward partly because "other people's jobs are on the line." Thousands of crew members have been out of work since the WGA strike began in May and shut down production. More filming stopped when members of the SAG-AFTRA actors union walked off the job in July.

In addition, Barrymore said she "wanted to make a show that was there for people in sensitive times."

Barrymore repeated that she believes her show will comply with strike restrictions.

"There's nothing I can do to make this OK to those this is not OK with," she added. "I fully accept that."

Other talk shows also are planning to return to TV shortly. "Real Time" host Bill Maher said he was bringing back his HBO show without written pieces such as a monologue and will focus on debates with guests.

The WGA said it was "difficult to imagine" how Maher, a WGA member, could host the show and still comply with strike rules. The union said members would picket the filming of "Real Time."

More from Entertainment

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Business Breakfast

    6:00am - 10:00am

    The Business Breakfast is the day’s must listen for the UAE’s business leaders, and those who aspire to be.

  • The Agenda

    10:00am - 1:00pm

    Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!