Drew Barrymore ushered away after man ‘rushes stage’ during live event
‘50 First Dates’ actor was giving a talk with the actor and singer Rapp in New York City
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Drew Barrymore was escorted to safety during a live event in New York on Monday (21 August), after a man appeared to rush towards the stage she was speaking from.
The 50 First Dates star, 48, was in conversation with actor and singer Reneé Rapp at the 92nd Street Y in New York City, when the incident took place.
In a TikTok recording, a member of the audience can be heard shouting “Drew Barrymore”, causing her to look up in shock.
“Oh my god, yes? Hi!,” she said, looking over at the side of the stage.
The man went on to identify himself as “Chad Michael Busto”, telling her: “You know who I am. I need to see you at some point while you're in New York.”
Rapp appeared concerned by the man’s behaviour, and quickly stood to place herself in front of Barrymore before walking with her off the stage. A grateful Barrymore can be seen putting her arm around Rapp’s waist in the footage.
Meanwhile, an on-stage security guard quickly intercepted the man, while a second security guard helped lead him away.
A spokesperson for the New York City Police Department told The Independent that no complaints had been filed over the incident at the time of writing.
The Independent has contacted Barrymore’s representative for comment.
After a pause in the event, Barrymore and Rapp returned to the stage, with the musician praising Barrymore for her calm demeanour.
“They’re like, ‘Do you need anything, do you need us to stay?’” she told the audience. “[Barrymore] was like oh no, I got it, I’m good!’”
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days
New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled
Barrymore responded: “Well, I got a new definition of your sexiness, it’s that level of protectiveness. That went full bodyguard!”
She joked: “You are my Kevin Costner!”
Barrymore and Rapp were in conversation to discuss the singer’s debut album, Snow Angel. The event was later followed by a special live performance from Rapp.
The Charlie’s Angels star is well-known for her smooth handling of fans. In another viral moment last month, the actor was commended for stopping her Drew Barrymore Show to comfort a crying audience member.