Drew Barrymore was visibly emotional on today’s episode of The Drew Barrymore Show as she celebrated her 50th birthday with several heartwarming surprises.
The show kicked off with journalists Gayle King and Jane Pauley reminiscing about Barrymore’s illustrious career. Viewers were treated to a trip down memory lane with highlights from the actress’s iconic films, alongside special birthday greetings from close friends such as Steven Spielberg, Adam Sandler, and Cameron Diaz.
At the end of their trip down memory lane, the two women surprised Barrymore with an IRL visit from her Never Been Kissed co-star Molly Shannon.
One of her long-time friends, Shannon, shared a touching message with Barrymore, expressing gratitude for learning from the actress on the set of Never Been Kissed and admiring her kindness towards everyone during filming. “What I want to say to you is you are incredible,” Shannon expressed, reflecting on Barrymore’s impact on her personal and professional life.
Barrymore broke down in tears as Shannon continued, “You had a tough childhood. You were alone. You had to be an adult way too soon. And what you made of your life and how you treat people and who you are is like no one else. I’ve known you for so long. You are one of a kind.”
Speaking of Barrymore’s childhood, Drew Barrymore Show regulars Ross Mathews and Valerie Bertinelli brought up the time when she lived with her former body double Jennifer Ward’s family while she was filming Firestarter in the 1980s. They then brought out Jennifer’s parents Gayle Ward and David Ward, which sent Barrymore into even more sobs.
“I didn’t have a sister and all I wanted in this world was a sibling and Jennifer and John were like my sister and brother. And you were the first traditional family I ever lived with,” she said through tears. “The blueprint you gave me is so much more like how my girls grew up because I did not know what a traditional family looked like, functioned like. You had such a beautiful family unit.”
Barrymore cried even harder when David reminded her that he was the one who taught her how to ride a bike.
“I remember it really well because it was one of the happiest times of my life because it was so safe and so comfortable and I trusted you so much and I just felt so safe in your home,” she said. “And, honestly, I am out to give that to my daughters now.”
We’re wishing Barrymore a happy 50th birthday!
The Drew Barrymore Show airs on weekdays on CBS. You can check the website for local airtimes.
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