A seemingly routine event featuring renowned actress Drew Barrymore took an unexpected turn on Monday night at the 92nd Street Y in New York City. As she engaged in an interview with actor-singer Reneé Rapp, a disruptive incident unfolded, causing Barrymore to make a hasty exit from the stage.
The occurrence took place while Barrymore and Rapp were engaged in their discussion at the Upper Manhattan venue. In an unexpected turn, an audience member, later recognized as Chad Michael Busto, abruptly stormed onto the stage, disrupting the ongoing proceedings with a strong exclamation of “Drew Barrymore!” Startled by the sudden interruption, Barrymore’s response reflected her surprise, saying, “Oh my God, yes? Hi!” The rapid and unexpected intrusion appeared to momentarily catch her off guard as the individual approached her.
Identifying himself as Chad Michael Busto, he asserted, “I’m Chad Michael Busto, you know who I am. I need to see you at some point while I’m here in New York.” Responding to the unexpected intrusion, security personnel from the 92nd Street Y swiftly intervened, forming a protective barrier around the audience member and directing him to “back up.” Rapp, the actor-singer who had been engaged in the interview, also played a role in escorting Barrymore to safety offstage.
In the aftermath of the interruption, both Drew Barrymore and Reneé Rapp managed to regroup, returning to the stage to continue their conversation. The focus of their discussion was Rapp’s recently released debut album “Snow Angel.” Despite the jarring beginning, the exchange resumed smoothly, with both Barrymore and Rapp handling the situation with remarkable poise. Entertainment journalist McKenzie Morrell praised their composed response, sharing on Twitter, “It was such an amazing time despite the alarming hiccup in the beginning with Drew’s stalker. Both handled it like bosses, and recovered quickly to continue an awesome conversation.”
As of now, representatives for Drew Barrymore, Reneé Rapp, and the 92nd Street Y have not provided official statements regarding the incident. The event was originally publicized on the 92nd Street Y’s website as a conversation between actress and singer-songwriter Reneé Rapp and Drew Barrymore. The discussion aimed to delve into Rapp’s debut album “Snow Angel,” exploring its creation, the personal inspirations behind its tracks, and more.
Rapp, who recently released her inaugural album, made a shift from the Max comedy series “The Sex Lives of College Girls” in its third season to fully focus on her music career. Additionally, she is set to appear as Regina George in the upcoming movie musical adaptation of “Mean Girls.” Meanwhile, Drew Barrymore is currently in the midst of filming the third season of her variety talk show, “The Drew Barrymore Show,” which is produced in New York City.
