Drew Barrymore and Corey Feldman: A Heartwarming Reunion Decades in the Making, Unpacking Child Stardom and Enduring Friendship

In a delightful blast from the past, television host and beloved actress Drew Barrymore, 47, recently welcomed a very special guest to her eponymous talk show: her former flame and fellow child star, Corey Feldman, 51. The reunion, which aired on Wednesday, January 18, marked a significant milestone, bringing the two iconic figures together on screen after a quarter-century. Fans and viewers alike were treated to a rare and intimate glimpse into their shared history, as the duo reminisced about their unique journey from burgeoning Hollywood talents to enduring public personalities. Their candid conversation on The Drew Barrymore Show not only tugged at heartstrings but also offered a poignant reflection on the bonds forged early in life and the surprising turns celebrity careers can take.

The segment quickly became a viral sensation, showcasing the undeniable chemistry and deep affection that still exists between Barrymore and Feldman. As they looked back on their long-standing friendship and brief romantic entanglement, both stars concurred that their youthful interactions were undeniably “cute.” Drew, ever the engaging storyteller, revealed a fascinating detail about the genesis of their connection: it was none other than legendary director Steven Spielberg, who famously directed Barrymore in the classic film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, who orchestrated their initial meeting. Spielberg, acting almost like a benevolent cupid, set the stage for what would become a memorable chapter in their lives. Corey recounted the origin story with a chuckle, settling into his interview seat, “What happened was, I got a call one day. My grandmother says, ‘We got a call from Steven’s office, and the little girl fromE.T. wants to meet you because she’s got a crush on you.'” This charming revelation immediately set a tone of warm nostalgia, underscoring the innocence and unique circumstances of their early Hollywood lives.

Drew enthusiastically affirmed Corey’s recollection, adding, “Oh yeah, I did, the biggest. But everyone did!” Her statement playfully acknowledged Feldman’s considerable popularity among young audiences during that era, particularly following his iconic role in The Goonies. Following Spielberg’s thoughtful arrangement, Drew’s mother took the initiative to set up a “play date” for the two burgeoning stars. Corey vividly recalled the details, painting a heartwarming picture for the audience. “It was so cute,” he shared, “I remember taking you to the movies, I remember exactly which movie theater it was. Of course, neither of us drove because I was still living at my grandparents’, and you were living with your mom.” These anecdotes not only highlighted their youth but also the shared experience of being child actors navigating a world of adult responsibilities while still adhering to childhood norms.

Feldman continued to relate further heartwarming specifics from that memorable first outing. “We walked across the street, and you put your little hand up for me to hold,” he recounted with a tender smile, “And I held your hand, and we walked across the street. I don’t remember what movie we saw, but I remember all that.” This detail perfectly encapsulated the innocent charm of their budding connection. At the time of this “play date,” Corey would have been approximately 13 years old, with Drew being around 10. Their young ages underscore the pure and uncomplicated nature of their initial attraction, a bond formed before the complexities of teenage life and the pressures of their demanding careers fully set in. This foundational interaction clearly left a lasting impression on both of them, shaping a unique friendship that would endure for decades despite the ebbs and flows of their individual paths in the entertainment industry.

Years later, as they transitioned from child stars to teenagers, their relationship evolved into something more serious. Drew and Corey dated “properly” when Drew was 14 and the star of films like The Lost Boys and Stand by Me was 17. This phase of their relationship offered a glimpse into young Hollywood romance, a time when both were navigating the intense scrutiny of fame alongside typical adolescent experiences. Their shared history as child actors, growing up under the public eye, provided a unique foundation for understanding and supporting each other through the tumultuous years of adolescence and early adulthood in Hollywood. While their romantic relationship didn’t last, the deep-seated respect and affection between them clearly did, making their recent reunion on Drew’s show all the more meaningful for both the stars and their dedicated fanbase. It served as a testament to the powerful connections forged in the crucible of early fame, proving that some bonds truly stand the test of time.

The candid nature of The Drew Barrymore Show often leads to such revealing and nostalgic discussions, and the reunion with Corey Feldman is a prime example of the warmth and openness Drew brings to her platform. Beyond rekindling her connection with Feldman, Drew has also been known for rehashing other past relationships on her show, much to the delight of her audience. Earlier, on January 5, her close friend and fellow actress Kate Hudson made an appearance. Their conversation ventured into the humorous territory of being “ghosted” by the charming Wilson brothers, Owen and Luke Wilson. This lighthearted discussion highlighted Drew’s ability to create a comfortable space where celebrities can share relatable, even embarrassing, personal anecdotes, further endearing her to her viewers.

During her chat with Kate Hudson, Drew playfully inquired, “Did you ever hear from one of them?” Kate, without missing a beat, replied with a definitive “No!” To which Drew, with her characteristic self-deprecating humor, chuckled and added, “Neither did I.” This exchange offered a rare glimpse into the less glamorous, more human side of celebrity dating. Kate Hudson famously dated the Wedding Crashersstar Owen Wilson from 2006 to 2009, a high-profile relationship that garnered significant media attention. Meanwhile, Drew Barrymore had a romantic involvement with Luke Wilson between 1996 and 1998. They specifically clarified, during a previous revelation on her show, that their relationship at the time was “open,” a progressive concept that was perhaps ahead of its time for mainstream celebrity couples. These anecdotes collectively paint a picture of Drew Barrymore as a host who is not afraid to delve into her own past, creating an atmosphere of authenticity and vulnerability that resonates deeply with her audience and her celebrity guests alike.

The continuous willingness of Drew Barrymore to openly discuss her past, whether it’s the innocent crushes of childhood or the complexities of adult relationships, is a defining characteristic of her talk show. This approach not only provides entertaining content but also fosters a sense of connection and relatability with viewers. Her ability to reconnect with figures like Corey Feldman and engage in honest conversations with friends like Kate Hudson transforms her show from mere celebrity interviews into heartfelt discussions about shared human experiences, albeit through the unique lens of Hollywood. These moments serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring nature of human connections, the challenges and joys of growing up in the spotlight, and the beauty of looking back on one’s life with both humor and affection. Drew Barrymore’s talk show has truly carved a niche for itself by celebrating nostalgia, fostering genuine dialogue, and proving that some of the most compelling stories are found in the pages of our shared histories.