Valerie Bertinelli tells Drew Barrymore ‘don’t apologize’ despite criticism for being touchy on talk show

MANHATTAN, NEW YORK: Drew Barrymore isn't about to apologize for her signature warm and physical approach to hosting—and she has Valerie Bertinelli in her corner to back her up.

During 'The Drew Barrymore Show' on January 31, Barrymore, 49, was joined by Bertinelli, 64, and Ross Mathews, 45, when the topic of her overly touchy hosting style came up.

Valerie Bertinelli defends Drew Barrymore’s love for physical touch

Drew Barrymore acknowledged that not everyone is a fan of her tendency to physically connect with guests, referencing a 2017 Wired article that highlighted the neurological and emotional benefits of human touch, as per US Weekly.

“I may or may not have brought this story to the news desk because I’m known to glom on to other humans,” Barrymore admitted.

“I also just may not be your cup of tea and you may not want at all to be touched. And I’m so sorry for that," she continued.

But Bertinelli was quick to shut down any need for an apology.

“Do not apologize for being so authentic,” she assured Barrymore.

“I mean, touch is what keeps us connected. Communication is what keeps us in. You are communicating and touching. You are doing your job. That’s what you’re here on this Earth to do," she added.

Ross Mathews says Drew Barrymore's affectionate nature is 'so authentically you'

Ross Mathews also chimed in, reinforcing that Drew Barrymore’s affectionate nature is an integral part of who she is.

“It’s so authentically you,” Mathews said. “This is how you are. You couldn’t change you if you tried.”

While Barrymore acknowledged that not every guest is as open to physical contact, she stood by her instincts.

“But I also know it’s not everybody’s cup of tea,” she admitted. “I was just happy to find out that there is scientific, neurological benefits.”

Barrymore’s touchy-feely interview style has sparked mixed reactions in the past, most notably during her November 2024 interview with Martha Stewart.

While discussing what made the homemaking mogul feel “soft and gooey” on the inside, Barrymore reached out to touch Stewart’s shoulder—only to be met with a playful shove.

“You’re the wrong gender,” Stewart, 83, quipped.

Barrymore laughed off the moment, responding, “I know! Although, the way it’s going with men, Martha, I’m not so sure anymore.”

Drew Barrymore admits to being 'so touchy'

Even Drew Barrymore recognizes that her tactile tendencies might not be for everyone.

In December 2024, she openly acknowledged her affectionate nature on an episode of her show.

“I’m so touchy,” Barrymore admitted. “People have to warn me, they’re like, ‘Back off a little bit.’ And I’m like, ‘Why?’”

She went on to suggest that her personal life might have something to do with it.

“Because physical connection—you know, I’m single, I’m not dating anyone,” she added.

“I don’t have that in my life but I don’t know how I would ever hold back from holding hands, hugging, snuggling," said the '50 First Dates' actress.