Drew Barrymore and Kelly Clarkson Vie for Daytime Talk Show Dominance

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Drew Barrymore and Kelly Clarkson, two of daytime television’s biggest stars, are locked in a fierce battle for ratings supremacy, with their once-friendly relationship reportedly strained by the competition. Sources reveal that both hosts are determined to claim the coveted daytime talk show crown, a title long held by Ellen DeGeneres.

Barrymore, 43, has seen a 25 percent increase in viewership for her show in 2024, while Clarkson, 42, maintains a slight edge in the ratings. Despite their professional rivalry, insiders say the two are avoiding personal attacks. “Drew and Kelly are locked in a pretty heated battle for the daytime talk show crown,” a source told RadarOnline.com. “Even though Kelly has a mild edge in the ratings, Drew is still more famous, and her lifetime of industry friends and contacts has allowed her to create viral moments pretty regularly.”

The competition has reportedly cooled their once-close friendship. “There was a time, especially when Drew was just starting out, that she and Kelly spoke a lot,” an insider shared. “Drew let it be known how much she admired Kelly, and they got very chummy, but that’s all stopped now. They both want to win this battle and be the top dog, and that unfortunately makes things very awkward, so they just don’t talk at all anymore.”

Barrymore is also joining the reboot of *Hollywood Squares*, where she will occupy the coveted center square. Sources suggest this move is part of a broader strategy to attract viewers from Middle America, a demographic where Clarkson excels. “Drew is hoping that when viewers see her on *Hollywood Squares*, they’ll be moved to sample her talk show, even if they’re loyal to Kelly,” the insider said. “She’s trying to find a way to appeal to Middle America, which is where Kelly really shines.”

Clarkson, meanwhile, has been working tirelessly on her show while navigating personal challenges. Her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, has been living lavishly in a $1.8 million home in Butte, Montana, following their divorce settlement. Clarkson was required to pay Blackstock $1.3 million and over $45,000 a month in child support for their two children, River and Remington.

Despite the intense competition, insiders emphasize that both women are equally ambitious. “Make no mistake, they’re both chasing the same daytime talk show crown – and the generational wealth that comes with it,” a source said. The battle for ratings continues, with both hosts determined to come out on top.