SZA Honors Drew Barrymore: A Role Model and Inspiration
SZA Honors Drew Barrymore: “One of the Few Lovely White Women I Emulate”
Source: SKIMS / SKIMS
SZA Honors Drew Barrymore: “One of the Few Lovely White Women I Emulate”
In her first-ever talk show appearance, SZA opened up about an inspiring figure in her life: Drew Barrymore.
The Grammy-winning artist appeared on The Drew Barrymore Show on January 13, 2025, and shared a deeply personal story about how the actress has been a role model for her since childhood.
SZA, who’s known for her emotionally raw music, reflected on growing up as a Black woman and finding it difficult to find role models who truly resonated with her.
She described how, in a world where diverse representations were often scarce, Barrymore was one of the few white women she could look up to.
“When you’re younger and you’re a Black woman, there’s not a lot of examples all the time,” SZA said. “And one of the few lovely white women that I looked up to so much on television, it was you because you were so yourself.”
SZA admired Barrymore for her quirks and imperfections—qualities she often felt self-conscious about in her own life.
“You were quirky, your smile wasn’t perfect,” she added, speaking to the authenticity that Barrymore exuded on and off-screen.
For SZA, Barrymore’s unapologetic individuality was a source of inspiration, a reminder that it’s okay to embrace one’s unique traits and flaws.
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The connection between SZA and Barrymore goes beyond words.
In fact, the singer was so moved by Barrymore’s influence that she named a song on her 2017 album Ctrl after the actress: “Drew Barrymore”.
During the interview, SZA explained that the song was not just a tribute, but a reflection of how Barrymore’s presence in her life had shaped her self-acceptance.
“The song is inspired by the way you’ve made me feel my entire life,” SZA shared. “It gave me permission to be myself and feel like this is so cool.”
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Barrymore, visibly touched by SZA’s words, expressed her deep admiration for the singer in return.
She recalled her cameo in SZA’s Drew Barrymore music video in 2017, a moment that solidified their mutual appreciation for each other.
“It just reminds me of all the things about myself that make me nervous, but on you it shines so brightly,” SZA continued, adding that Barrymore’s authenticity had given her the courage to embrace her own.
The interview marked a significant moment for SZA, not only because of the deep emotional connection between the two women but also because she’s preparing to make her acting debut in the film One of Them Days, alongside Keke Palmer.
Produced by Issa Rae, the buddy comedy follows SZA and Palmer’s characters as they navigate eviction while maintaining their friendship.
SZA’s tribute to Drew Barrymore reflects the power of representation, authenticity, and the lasting impact that role models can have on a person’s life.
For SZA, Barrymore wasn’t just a celebrity—she was a guiding light who helped her embrace her own quirks and insecurities with confidence.
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