Drew Barrymore Out as Host of National Book Awards 2023 After Resuming Talk Show Amid Writers Strike

Drew Barrymore will no longer be hosting the 2023 National Book Awards.

After the 48-year-old actress decided to resume filming her daytime talk show amid the ongoing Writers Guild of America Strike, the National Book Foundation announced that they had “rescinded” Drew‘s invitation to host the ceremony.

“The National Book Awards is an evening dedicated to celebrating the power of literature, and the incomparable contributions of writers to our culture,” the foundation wrote on Twitter. “In light of the announcement that The Drew Barrymore Show will resume production, the National Book Foundation has rescinded Ms. Barrymore’s invitation to host the 74th National Book Awards Ceremony.”

The statement continued, “Our commitment is to ensure that the focus of the awards remains on celebrating writers and books, and we are grateful to Ms. Barrymore and her team for their understanding in this situation.”

Drew was first chosen to host the 2023 National Book Awards back in July. Oprah Winfrey was also invited to speak as a guest.

On Monday (September 11), Drew announced that she will be resuming production on her talk show amid the ongoing writers strike and has faced major criticism for her decision.

The WGA recently released a statement reacting to Drew‘s announcement.

The 2023 National Book Awards are scheduled for November 15.