Drew Barrymore shares her thoughts on why she can spend 'years' without intimacy.

Drew Barrymore can turn almost anything into a headline, even a weird little conversation about sex. It started when “Garfield” brought the topic to the table with a six-month abstinence confession, and suddenly the internet was watching a talk show host react like she was hearing the most shocking news of the day. Spoiler, she did not treat it like a big deal.

On “The Drew Barrymore Show” in 2022, Barrymore looked genuinely surprised that six months sounded short. She leaned into the moment with Ross Matthews beside her, asking what was “wrong” with her that she didn’t think six months without intimacy was a long time. Matthews, of course, played along with his own bit, claiming he’d gone without sex for his entire twenties, which made the whole exchange feel like a roast disguised as relationship talk.

And then Barrymore went for the real curveball, joking that she could do “years” without sexual intimacy, which is exactly how this turned into a bigger conversation than anyone expected.

Exploring Emotional Depths in Relationships

...from physical relationships to immerse himself fully in the emotional depths of his character. This commitment to authenticity resonates with Barrymore, who has navigated her own journey through relationships, often emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and emotional health.

In this light, both celebrities illuminate a growing trend where individuals prioritize personal growth over traditional romantic engagements, sparking a broader dialogue about how modern relationships can evolve beyond mere physicality and towards deeper emotional connections.

That’s when Ross Matthews jumped in with his “entire twenties” abstinence joke, turning Barrymore’s reaction into full-on comedic momentum.

Barrymore's Humorous Take on Garfield's Six-Month Abstinence

However, Barrymore's reaction to Garfield's admission was both humorous and revealing. During the episode of "The Drew Barrymore Show" that aired in 2022, she expressed her surprise that six months of abstinence seemed relatively short to her.

She turned to her co-host, Ross Matthews, and asked, "What’s wrong with me that six months doesn’t seem like a very long time? I was like, ‘Yeah so?’" This comment not only highlighted her lighthearted approach to the topic but also opened the door for a broader conversation about relationships and dating norms.

Matthews' Humorous Take on Relationships and Headlines

Matthews, ever the jokester, chimed in with his own humorous take, claiming he had abstained from sex throughout his entire twenties. This playful banter led to a light-hearted exchange where Matthews suggested that the real headline from their discussion was that Barrymore could easily handle six months without sex, implying that it was not a significant feat.

Barrymore took the jest even further, playfully suggesting that she could go for “years” without sexual intimacy, which elicited laughter from the audience and viewers at home. As of 2026, Barrymore remains single and has not publicly confirmed any romantic partner since her divorce from Will Kopelman in 2016.

The banter got even louder as Barrymore suggested the real headline was basically that she could handle six months without sex.

Drew Barrymore Prioritizes Independence and Family After Divorce

The couple shares two daughters, Olive and Frankie, and Barrymore has been open about her cautious approach to dating in the years following her divorce. She has often expressed the importance of enjoying her independence and focusing on her children, which has shaped her perspective on relationships.

In recent discussions, Barrymore has also shared her feelings about dating younger men, expressing a sense of discomfort with the idea of being involved with someone in their twenties. This sentiment is particularly interesting given the prevalence of significant age gaps in Hollywood relationships, where it is not uncommon to see older men paired with much younger women.

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Barrymore's Views on Age and Dating Norms

Barrymore's candidness about her dating preferences reflects a broader conversation about societal norms and expectations regarding age and relationships. During a segment on her talk show, Barrymore and Matthews discussed the importance of keeping dating fun and light-hearted.

Matthews reminded viewers that dating should be an enjoyable experience, encouraging a mindset that embraces the joy of meeting new people and exploring potential connections. Barrymore, however, humorously pointed out that the men she has encountered seem to have “lost the memo” about dating being fun.

After the audience laughter, Barrymore doubled down and tossed out the “years” line, making the whole thing feel bolder than the original Garfield confession.

Barrymore's Humorous Take on Dating Disasters

She jokingly referred to her dating experiences as akin to “dating from Psychos.com,” indicating that her encounters have not been particularly pleasant. When asked by fellow guest Sunny Anderson if she had considered dating younger individuals, Barrymore swiftly dismissed the idea.

No, I have children and it seems wrong now,” she stated, underscoring her commitment to her role as a mother and her desire to prioritize her family over romantic pursuits. Barrymore's openness about her dating life and her experiences as a single mother resonates with many individuals navigating similar situations.

Embracing Unique Dating Journeys After Life Changes

In a society that often places pressure on individuals to conform to certain dating norms, her candidness serves as a reminder that everyone’s journey is unique. The challenges of dating, especially after a significant life change such as a divorce, can be daunting, and Barrymore’s willingness to share her thoughts and experiences provides a sense of camaraderie for those who may feel isolated in their struggles.

Moreover, Barrymore's reflections on dating and relationships highlight the evolving nature of romantic connections in contemporary society. As more individuals prioritize personal growth, independence, and family over traditional relationship timelines, conversations like Barrymore's become increasingly relevant.

By 2026, with Barrymore still single after her 2016 divorce from Will Kopelman, that offhand joke keeps echoing like a mini relationship statement.

Embracing Fun in Dating: A Shift in Perspective

The notion of dating as a fun and enjoyable experience, rather than a source of stress or anxiety, is a perspective that many are beginning to embrace. In addition to her personal experiences, Barrymore's insights contribute to a larger dialogue about the societal expectations surrounding relationships.

The entertainment industry, in particular, has long been scrutinized for its portrayal of romance and the often unrealistic standards it sets for individuals. By sharing her own experiences and challenges, Barrymore not only humanizes the dating experience but also encourages others to embrace their own journeys, regardless of societal pressures.

Barrymore: Navigating Single Life with Humor and Grace

As she continues to navigate the complexities of single life, Barrymore remains a relatable figure for many. Her ability to approach serious topics with humor and grace allows her to connect with her audience on a deeper level.

Whether discussing her experiences as a mother, her thoughts on dating, or her reflections on personal growth, Barrymore's authenticity shines through, making her a beloved figure in the entertainment world. In conclusion, Drew Barrymore's candid discussions about her dating life and personal experiences serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity and openness in navigating relationships.

Her humorous take on Andrew Garfield's six-month abstinence, her reflections on dating younger men, and her commitment to her role as a mother all contribute to a broader conversation about love, relationships, and the challenges that come with them. As she continues to share her journey with her audience, Barrymore not only entertains but also inspires others to embrace their own stories, fostering a sense of connection and understanding in an often complex world of romance.

Ultimately, Barrymore’s journey is a testament to the fact that dating and relationships are deeply personal experiences that can vary greatly from one individual to another. By sharing her thoughts and experiences, she encourages others to reflect on their own journeys, reminding us all that love and connection can take many forms, and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to navigating the complexities of the heart.

Nobody expects a Garfield abstinence joke to land like a Drew Barrymore reveal.

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