Drew Barrymore's Emotional Reunion with Compassionate Flight Attendant on Her Remarkable Sobriety Journey

Drew Barrymore CBS

While filming her talk show, "The Drew Barrymore Show," Drew Barrymore experienced a heartfelt reunion with a person from her past. In the October 19th episode, a member of the audience revealed that she had met the 48-year-old actress four years ago during her time as a flight attendant. Displaying a photo captured during their previous encounter, the audience member shared the special moment with Barrymore.

"When we first met, you were in tears in my galley," the steward said to Barrymore. "That was four years ago, and now I find myself shedding tears on your show."

The actress began to feel overwhelmed as the woman went on, saying, "Back then, we sat together in my galley, and you poured out your heart, crying endlessly because you were going through so much. And now, here I am on your show, feeling the same emotions."

Barrymore inquired, "Do you recall the challenging time I was experiencing?" In response, the flight attendant confirmed, "Yes, I remember vividly. You were sobbing, and I provided comfort by holding you." Subsequently, the talk show host ascended the stairs and approached the woman, offering her an embrace.

Seated beside her, Barrymore confided, "That particular year was exceedingly difficult. It was the year I made the decision to quit drinking. Although abstaining from alcohol doesn't miraculously solve all your problems, it requires substantial effort and self-reflection. It's a means of respecting oneself, maintaining consistency, and allowing space for other positive things to enter one's life."

Barrymore then took the floor and spoke to the entire crowd, admitting that her biggest issue in life had been drinking and emphasizing that alcohol was detrimental to her well-being. “I resorted to it as a means to escape my emotions,” she confessed. “I found solace in alcohol and used it as a crutch.”

Barrymore expressed gratitude to the flight attendant, acknowledging the significance of their encounter. She appreciated the opportunity to be open and sincere in the past, and commended the flight attendant for reciprocating that honesty in the present. Recognizing the importance of self-honesty, Barrymore believed that progress could only be achieved through such authenticity. Additionally, she expressed love towards the flight attendant and expressed her joy for having the opportunity to discuss these matters together in the present moment.

Barrymore has openly discussed her struggles with substance abuse throughout her life and her experience in rehab during her teenage years. In a March interview with the Los Angeles Times, she shared that she turned to alcohol during her 2016 divorce from Will Kopelman, with whom she has two daughters. She also mentioned that her drinking problem became so severe that her therapist quit working with her.

In addition to support from her friends, Barrymore credited her talk show for helping her overcome her addiction. She made the decision to stop drinking after filming the pilot episode, realizing that she needed to be in a clear state of mind to handle the responsibilities of hosting a show like this.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).