Drew Barrymore and Kelly Clarkson’s ‘heated battle’ for talk show ratings tearing their friendship apart
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Drew Barrymore and Kelly Clarkson were once all about supporting each other, but now it’s every woman for herself.
Sources say the two daytime queens are locked in a no-holds-barred battle to claim the coveted talk show crown, and the competition has completely shattered their friendship.
While the '50 First Dates' star hosts 'The Drew Barrymore Show', Clarkson hosts 'The Kelly Clarkson Show'.
Drew Barrymore and Kelly Clarkson both 'want to win' ratings battle
Drew Barrymore, 48, is reportedly laser-focused on winning over viewers—especially in Middle America, where Kelly Clarkson, 41, has already built a massive fan base.
An industry insider spilled the tea to Radar Online: “Drew and Kelly are locked in a pretty heated battle for the daytime talk show crown that Ellen DeGeneres owned for years. Even though Kelly has a mild edge in the ratings, Drew is still more famous, and her lifetime of industry friends and contacts has allowed her to create viral moments pretty regularly.”
It's worth noting that Drew’s been on fire lately. Her show has seen a 25% ratings boost last year, meaning she’s coming dangerously close to Kelly’s numbers.
But while the ratings war has "soured" their once-friendly dynamic, the source insists the two are determined not to take "cheap shots" at each other.
“There was a time, especially when Drew was just starting out, that she and Kelly spoke a lot. Drew let it be known how much she admired Kelly, and they got very chummy, but that's all stopped now. They both want to win this battle and be the top dog, and that unfortunately makes things very awkward, so they just don't talk at all anymore," the source continued.
Drew Barrymore’s power move
While Kelly Clarkson may have the heartland on lock, Drew Barrymore has a trick up her sleeve—and it involves prime-time TV.
She’s joining the reboot of 'Hollywood Squares' and snagging the coveted center square. Ssources say this isn’t just about having fun—it’s a calculated career move.
The insider explained: "Drew is hoping that when viewers see her on 'Hollywood Squares', they'll be moved to sample her talk show, even if they're loyal to Kelly. She's trying to find a way to appeal to Middle America, which is where Kelly really shines."
This could mean she's coming for Kelly’s fans.
The insider added: “She would never frame it this way, but she's trying to poach Kelly's fans, which is pretty cutthroat. It’s no wonder she’s backed off the friendship—she wants to win this battle at all costs!”
Kelly Clarkson can't be counted out just yet
While Drew Barrymore is making her moves, Kelly Clarkson isn’t just going to sit back and let it happen.
“Make no mistake, they’re both chasing the same daytime talk show crown—and the generational wealth that comes with it.” the source said.
And Clarkson’s been working overtime to secure her throne. As previously reported, the 'Since U Been Gone' singer has been burning the candle at both ends in New York while her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock is living his best life.
Sources say Clarkson has been "running herself ragged in New York doing her show," while Blackstock is out in Montana chilling in his $1.8 million home and launching a rodeo business.
Clarkson had to fork over a fortune in the divorce settlement. This included a staggering $1.3 million upfront, $45,000+ a month in child support, and 5% of her $17.75 million Montana ranch.
So, if anyone is motivated to make her show a smashing success, it’s Kelly.
