Drew Carey's Generous Support During Writers Strike: A Commitment to Doing the Right Thing
In a touching display of solidarity and support, comedian Drew Carey recently opened up about his role in assisting striking writers during their 148-day work stoppage last year. Speaking at the Writers Guild of America awards ceremony in Los Angeles, Carey shared details of his decision to fund meals for Writers Guild members at popular local eateries, Bob’s Big Boy and Swingers.
During a time when the financial strain of the strike was palpable, Carey’s initiative saw him covering upwards of $67,000 in meals — a figure that humorously ballooned due to some indulgent choices made by the beneficiaries. The cost of these meals highlighted not only Carey’s generosity but also his steadfast commitment to the community that once propelled him to stardom.
The backdrop to this benevolence was a strike fraught with financial worries for many, as articulated by Carey’s recount of his accountant's concern over the escalating bills. Yet, despite the financial pressures, Carey remained resolute, driven by a deep-seated belief in supporting what he consistently referred to as “the right thing to do.” His conviction was so strong that even a three-way call with his publicist and accountant couldn’t sway his dedication to the cause.
Carey’s speech took a poignant turn as he recounted the sacrifices made by others during the strike, including a friend who faced significant personal financial risk. He highlighted these individuals as the true heroes, emphasizing the immense personal costs they bore to uphold their principles.
The emotional peak of Carey’s address came when he acknowledged the essential role writers have played in his career, candidly crediting them for making him a millionaire. This acknowledgment resonated deeply with the audience, earning him thunderous applause. Carey’s recognition of the symbiotic relationship between actors and writers underscored a crucial industry truth: without writers, the stories that captivate audiences and drive television success simply wouldn’t exist.
As the strike wound down, Carey’s final gesture—encouraging writers to enjoy one last meal on his dime—was both a celebration of their resilience and a farewell to a solidarity effort that clearly meant a great deal to him personally. His concluding tweets underscored a heartfelt gratitude towards the writers who played a pivotal role in his success, particularly the team from "The Drew Carey Show."
Drew Carey's actions during the Writers Guild strike demonstrated a powerful blend of empathy, loyalty, and advocacy, serving as a reminder of the importance of community support during challenging times. His willingness to stand with the writers, regardless of the cost, not only helped sustain many through a difficult period but also highlighted the enduring value of kindness and solidarity in Hollywood.