Drew Barrymore and Bill Maher face backlash for returning to air despite ongoing strike by writers and actors.

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) has publicly condemned the decision by television personalities Drew Barrymore and Bill Maher to resume their shows amid the ongoing writers’ strike. AOC expressed her strong disapproval on social media, stating, “I don’t support people who break picket lines,” a comment that highlights the growing tension surrounding the ongoing industrial action in Hollywood.

The writers’ strike, which has been ongoing for several months, involves thousands of screenwriters and other industry professionals advocating for better pay and improved working conditions. The strike has seen widespread support from unions, including the Writers Guild of America (WGA), and has resulted in a significant disruption to the entertainment industry, with many shows pausing production or going into reruns.

Drew Barrymore and Bill Maher, both of whom have long-running talk shows, made headlines this week with their announcements to return to air despite the ongoing strike. Barrymore’s decision to resume filming her show in defiance of the picket lines sparked immediate backlash from both fans and industry workers. Maher, whose show Real Time with Bill Maher also plans to return, similarly faced criticism for his stance.

AOC, known for her advocacy on workers’ rights, joined the growing chorus of voices condemning the return of these shows during such a critical time for workers in the entertainment industry. “It’s important to stand in solidarity with those fighting for fair wages and better conditions,” she said, emphasising that public figures like Barrymore and Maher should be supporting the efforts of the striking writers and actors rather than undermining their cause.

The decision to return to production has sparked a wider debate within the entertainment industry about the ethics of crossing picket lines. Supporters of the strikes argue that such moves show a lack of solidarity with the workers fighting for fair compensation, while others contend that resuming production is necessary to keep the industry afloat amid the prolonged strike action.

As the strike continues, the debate surrounding the resumption of TV shows is likely to intensify, with many watching closely to see how other prominent figures in the industry will respond.