On November 12, 2024, during an episode of “The Drew Barrymore Show,” Martha Stewart, 83, playfully pushed host Drew Barrymore, 49, after an unexpected interaction. The incident occurred as Barrymore inquired about what makes Stewart feel “soft and gooey.”
Stewart appeared slightly puzzled by the question, repeating it to herself before replying that “soft and gooey … treatment” was nice. Barrymore then echoed Stewart’s words, touching her shoulder and saying, “Soft and gooey treatment,” adding, “When you’re treated like a lady.” Stewart agreed, noting it was pleasant, as Barrymore continued to pat her arm and back gently.
The audience laughed, and Stewart responded with a knowing glance toward them. Stewart interrupted Barrymore, remarking that she was “the wrong gender,” and gently pushed her away. In response, Barrymore, appearing disheartened, fell back onto the couch with a look of disappointment.
This interaction highlights Barrymore’s known tendency to engage physically with her guests, a style that has previously drawn both praise and criticism. In August 2024, Barrymore acknowledged the feedback, stating, “I hear you, and I’ll do my best.” She admitted that maintaining physical distance is “not my strong point.”
Although Stewart built a vast lifestyle empire, she has occasionally allowed space for love in her life. She married Andrew Stewart from 1961 until their divorce in 1990, and they share a daughter, Alexis Stewart.
In a 1995 interview with Martha’s mother, Martha Kostyra acknowledged the divorce deeply affected her daughter, suggesting that Martha might never fully move past it.
Martha later reflected on the split in a 2020 interview, saying the divorce was particularly difficult as it was the first in her family. She noted the ongoing pain of not having spoken to Andrew since the separation but expressed her determination to move forward with her life.
Over the years, Martha has been linked to several notable figures, including Anthony Hopkins and former U.S. News & World Report CEO Mort Zuckerman. She also dated Charles Simonyi, the co-creator of Microsoft Word, for 15 years, beginning in 1993 after their friendship grew into a relationship.
In her Netflix documentary Martha, Stewart described Simonyi as a “total genius” and referred to their breakup as a “second divorce,” despite never having married him. The two frequently attended events together, and Simonyi offered her support during her 2004 trial for charges related to a stock trade, from which she was ultimately convicted. They ended their relationship in 2008, with Martha admitting that life felt “less exciting” after her prison term, contributing to the split.
In 2023, Stewart discussed her approach to work and romance on E! Insider Shop With Martha Stewart, explaining that work often precedes her life. While she acknowledged that having a boyfriend was not her top priority, she admitted it “would be nice” to find a balance between work and romance.
The episode continued without further incident, and both Stewart and Barrymore maintained a cordial atmosphere. The audience responded with laughter and applause, indicating that the moment was in good humor.