SZA thanks Drew Barrymore for inspiring her on talk show appearance

SZA shared an emotional moment on The Drew Barrymore Show, thanking the actress for inspiring her and the song.

R&B sensation SZA recently appeared on The Drew Barrymore Show and delivered a heartfelt message to the actress, revealing how Drew Barrymore has been a lifelong inspiration to her. 

During Monday’s episode, SZA, holding back tears, told Barrymore that the Ctrl song “Drew Barrymore” was more than just a title.

“It was inspired by you,” the singer shared. “The energy that you carry, even my outfit, is inspired by the way you’ve made me feel my entire life—carefree and authentic.” SZA confessed that she had written a letter to Barrymore years ago but never sent it. “When you’re a younger Black woman, there’s not a lot of examples. You were one of the few lovely white women I looked up to because you were so yourself.”

On her song “Drew Barrymore,” SZA reflects on insecurities and heartbreak, singing lines like, “I’m sorry I’m not more attractive…I’m sorry I don’t shave my legs at night.” She explained to Barrymore that the actress’s willingness to embrace imperfections gave her confidence. “You were quirky. Your smile wasn’t perfect. I have a slight speech impediment, and people laugh all the time. But on you, all those things shine so brightly.”

The two women shared a warm embrace, with SZA adding, “You gave me permission to be myself.”

This emotional moment builds on their shared history. In 2017, Barrymore made a cameo in the music video for “Drew Barrymore,” and SZA expressed her admiration in a viral post. SZA’s recent appearance comes weeks after releasing Lana, an extended version of her album SOS, with more updates expected soon.