Ross Mathews, co-anchor of “Drew’s News” on The Drew Barrymore Show, celebrated the show’s debut on KOMO-TV in Seattle, marking a special homecoming for the Mount Vernon native.
Why it matters: The move of The Drew Barrymore Show to KOMO at 2 p.m. weekdays is a notable upgrade from its previous time slot, enhancing accessibility for local viewers.
Season 7 of The Drew Barrymore Show launched on September 14, 2026, featuring guests like Olivia Rodrigo, Jaclyn Smith, and Kate Jackson.
Mathews, who grew up watching KOMO, has come full circle, now co-hosting a show that airs on the network.
The show aims to deliver feel-good stories and timely lifestyle tips, echoing with the local audience.
Driving the news: Mathews visited Seattle late last month to promote the show’s new time slot, engaging with fans and sharing his memories of growing up in the area.
During his visit, Mathews handed out locally grown flowers at Pike Place Market, celebrating the community he cherishes.
He also visited Lumen Field, where he reminisced about bonding with his father and brother over Seattle Seahawks games.
Mathews expressed his excitement about the show’s new chapter, emphasizing the importance of connecting with local audiences.
State of play: Mathews’ career has been marked by serendipitous moments, leading him to unexpected opportunities in television.
His start in show business came during his senior year at the University of La Verne when he interned at The Tonight Show With Jay Leno.
Mathews quickly transitioned from intern to featured guest, becoming known as “Ross the Intern.”
His role evolved significantly on The Drew Barrymore Show, where he now serves as a producer and co-anchor.
The big picture: Mathews’ personal story intertwines with his professional life, highlighting his growth as a performer and individual.
He recalls his early aspirations of making his mother proud by becoming a talk-show host, a dream that began at age 7.
Mathews’ experience on The Drew Barrymore Show has allowed him to share vulnerable moments, including personal losses and milestones.
He noted that Barrymore has created an environment where he can be authentic, a rarity in the entertainment industry.
What they're saying: Mathews has openly expressed gratitude for the opportunities he’s received throughout his career.
“What started as something fun to do has turned into nearly a decade of working with my best friend,” Mathews said, highlighting his bond with Barrymore.
He emphasized the importance of vulnerability in his role, stating, “Drew’s allowed me to be a fully formed human.”
This supportive dynamic contrasts with his past experiences, where he often felt pressure to deliver punchlines rather than share personal stories.
By the numbers: Mathews’ transition to The Drew Barrymore Show reflects broader trends in television programming and audience engagement.
The show airs at 2 p.m. weekdays on KOMO, a strategic move to capture afternoon viewers looking for lighthearted content.
Over its six seasons, the show has evolved from a pandemic-era production to a staple of daytime television.
Mathews’ involvement has grown from guest appearances to a key production role, underscoring his impact on the show’s success.
What's next: As The Drew Barrymore Show settles into its new time slot, Mathews looks forward to continuing to connect with viewers.
The show plans to feature more celebrity guests and lifestyle segments, aiming to resonate with a diverse audience.
Mathews’ commitment to delivering feel-good stories and engaging content remains a priority as the show moves forward.
Fans can expect exciting developments in upcoming episodes, as Mathews continues to bring his unique flair to the program.
With the debut of The Drew Barrymore Show on KOMO, Ross Mathews is not just celebrating a new time slot but a return to his roots, embodying the spirit of Seattle and the joy of connecting with audiences.