Drew Barrymore Steps Down as Host of MTV Movie & TV Awards In Solidarity with Writers' Strike

May 4, 2023

LOS ANGELES – Drew Barrymore has stepped down as host of the MTV Movie & TV Awards set for Sunday, in solidarity to the striking Writers Guild members, she said.

The actress/producer, however, said has also agreed to return and host next year.

MTV Movie & TV Awards will still continue, but will now take place without a host, the network said as producers move to a strike contingency plan as they wait and see who among their presenters, nominees and guests would still be willing and able to appear on the telecast. They also announced there will no longer be a red carpet or talent interviews before the show.

“I have listened to the writers, and in order to truly respect them, I will pivot from hosting the MTV Movie & TV Awards live in solidarity with the strike,” the actress said in a statement. “Everything we celebrate and honor about movies and television is born out of their creation. And until a solution is reached, I am choosing to wait but I’ll be watching from home and hope you will join me. I thank MTV, who has truly been some of the best partners I have ever worked with. And I can’t wait to be a part of this next year, when I can truly celebrate everything that MTV has created, which is a show that allows fans to choose who the awards go to and is truly inclusive.​”