7 Shocking Reasons Why Drew Barrymore And Justin Long’s ‘Hedonistic’ Love Story Still Matters Today
The unique, on-again, off-again romance between Drew Barrymore and Justin Long remains one of Hollywood’s most captivating and relatable love stories, even over a decade after their split. While both actors have moved on—Long is now married to actress Kate Bosworth, and Barrymore is focused on her career and family—their enduring bond continues to be a major topic of discussion, especially following their deeply emotional reunion on *The Drew Barrymore Show* in 2022. As of December 18, 2025, their story serves as a rare example of exes maintaining a profound and public friendship, proving that some loves simply evolve rather than disappear entirely.
Their relationship, which Drew Barrymore herself described as "hedonistic" and a time of "pure delight," spanned from 2007 to 2010 and produced two memorable romantic comedies. But it is the candid, tearful exchange they shared on live television that has cemented their place in pop culture history, offering a blueprint for navigating breakups with grace, affection, and mutual respect. This article dives deep into the timeline, the films, and the current dynamic that keeps fans rooting for this iconic pair.
The Essential Profile: Drew Barrymore and Justin Long
To understand the depth of their connection, it is important to first look at the unique lives and careers of the two stars who found a temporary, powerful connection in the late 2000s.
Drew Blyth Barrymore: The Hollywood Royalty
- Born: February 22, 1975, in Culver City, California.
- Family Lineage: A member of the legendary Barrymore family of actors, she is the granddaughter of John Barrymore.
- Career Start: Gained global fame as a child star at age seven in Steven Spielberg’s E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982).
- Major Roles: Transitioned successfully into adult roles with films like Poison Ivy, The Wedding Singer, Never Been Kissed, and the *Charlie's Angels* franchise.
- Current Role: Host and executive producer of the nationally syndicated daytime talk show, *The Drew Barrymore Show* (launched 2020).
- Personal Life: Has two daughters, Olive and Frankie, with ex-husband Will Kopelman. Her dating history includes relationships with Corey Feldman and Luke Wilson.
Justin Jacob Long: The Versatile Character Actor
- Born: June 2, 1978, in Fairfield, Connecticut.
- Education: Graduated from Vassar College, where he was a member of the comedy group, LaughingStock.
- Career Start: Known for early roles in horror films like *Jeepers Creepers* (2001) and comedies like *Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story* (2004).
- Major Roles: Became a recognizable face in Hollywood, starring in films such as *Live Free or Die Hard*, *Accepted*, and the surprise horror hit *Barbarian* (2022). He was also famously the "Mac" in the "Get a Mac" advertising campaign.
- Current Role: Continues acting in film and television, and hosts the popular podcast, *Life is Short with Justin Long*.
- Personal Life: After dating high-profile actresses like Amanda Seyfried, he married actress Kate Bosworth in 2023, whom he met while filming *The Barbarian*.
The Hedonistic Timeline: An On-Again, Off-Again Love (2007-2010)
Drew Barrymore and Justin Long first met and began dating in 2007, quickly becoming one of Hollywood's most talked-about couples. Their relationship was characterized by a playful, intense, and often public chemistry that seemed to mirror the romantic comedy roles they were known for.
The Co-Starring Years: From Breakup to Box Office
Their professional lives became intertwined with their personal lives, leading them to star opposite each other in two films, both of which were released during their on-again, off-again period:
- He's Just Not That Into You (2009): Although they did not play a couple in this ensemble film, the movie was a major box office success and featured them both in prominent roles alongside stars like Jennifer Aniston, Ben Affleck, and Scarlett Johansson.
- Going the Distance (2010): This romantic comedy was the true vehicle for their chemistry, as they played a couple navigating a challenging long-distance relationship. The film’s plot mirrored some of the real-life struggles of maintaining a relationship under the Hollywood spotlight, further fueling public fascination.
The pair ultimately ended their romantic relationship around 2010, but unlike many Hollywood splits, their separation was not the end of their story. They managed to transition from romantic partners to genuine, affectionate friends, a rarity that has inspired countless fans.
The Emotional Reunion: A Testament to Enduring Affection
The most significant and recent chapter in the Drew and Justin saga occurred in September 2022, when Justin Long appeared as the first guest on the season three premiere of *The Drew Barrymore Show*. The reunion was immediately tearful and raw, capturing the public's attention and confirming the deep, lasting love they still share, albeit platonically.
Key Moments and Quotes from the 2022 Interview
The conversation was a masterclass in emotional vulnerability and healthy co-existence after a breakup. Drew Barrymore was visibly emotional from the moment Long walked out, tearfully embracing him.
- A "Hedonistic" Love: Drew described their time together as a "very hedonistic, fun, happy, love-filled time." She confessed that she "will always love" him, to which Long responded in kind, sharing a moment that resonated with anyone who has maintained a deep bond with an ex.
- The Need for Distance: Long acknowledged the initial difficulty of the breakup, stating, "I love Drew, and I'll always root for her. I’m so happy for her." He also noted that while the interview was "so not weird" for them, they had not seen each other in two years prior to the taping, suggesting that initial distance was necessary for their friendship to thrive.
- The Power of Friendship: The interview highlighted a theme of mutual support. Barrymore expressed her relief and joy that Long had found happiness, stating, "I'm just so happy because you deserve to be happy."
Why Their Love Story Still Captivates in 2025
More than a decade after their split and years after their emotional television reunion, the Drew Barrymore and Justin Long dynamic continues to be a subject of fascination. This is largely due to the maturity and respect they model for modern relationships.
1. The "Deep Affection" That Transcends Romance
Justin Long has been candid about his feelings, even after marrying Kate Bosworth in 2023. In a 2024 podcast appearance, Long reflected on his relationship with Drew, stating he has a "deep affection" for her that "endures." He explained that his love for Drew is different from his love for his wife, Kate, but no less significant, providing a nuanced view of how love can change forms. This openness challenges the traditional notion that exes must cut all ties.
2. A Hollywood Blueprint for a Healthy Breakup
In an industry notorious for acrimonious splits, Drew and Justin offer a refreshing counter-narrative. Their ability to co-star, reunite on a talk show, and speak warmly of each other publicly provides a powerful blueprint for maintaining a positive relationship. Drew even hosted Kate Bosworth on her show, further demonstrating a level of emotional intelligence and maturity that is rare.
3. The Chemistry That Was Too Big for One Relationship
Their on-screen chemistry in *Going the Distance* was undeniable because it was real. Fans who watched their "hedonistic" period now see that same intense connection channeled into a lasting, supportive friendship. The relationship was perhaps too intense or "pure delight" to be sustainable as a romance, but it laid the foundation for a permanent bond.
In conclusion, the story of Drew Barrymore and Justin Long is not about a couple who got back together; it is about two people who genuinely loved each other and chose to honor that love by remaining in each other's lives as friends. Their journey, marked by laughter, tears, and profound respect, ensures that their Hollywood romance will continue to matter, year after year, as a symbol of enduring, evolving love.
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