Hollywood Squares Reboot EP at Center Square Drew Barrymore

“Hollywood Squares” is back for a new generation. The game show, which originally aired in 1966 and has seen several reboots since, is back with a new centerpiece: Drew Barrymore.

Executive producer Jesse Collins told TheWrap that he wanted to bring the game show back for years, but it wasn’t until longtime fan of the show Barrymore signed on that the project really took off.

“Drew’s Rolodex is insane. Having her in the center spot for all 20 episodes just made everyone feel like this is definitely a safe place for me to come and show my knowledge or lack thereof and just generally have fun,” told “Rhythm + Flow” producer. TheWrap.

Collins also joked that the show has probably never seen a center seat sit in other people’s seats as much as the “50 First Dates” actress. “It’s that need to hug,” he said. Host Nate Burleson said that “it’s hard for her to sit still.”

The game is simple. It’s tic-tac-toe, but in each square sits a different comedian, actor, athlete or special guest. Host Nate Burleson poses a question to the celebrity occupying the slot, and each contestant must either agree or disagree by putting an X or O on the game board.

Although the concept is straightforward, “Hollywood Squares” have been making audiences laugh for generations. With quick jokes from comedians or even flirtatious banter between the contestants and celebrities, the show keeps people on their toes.

“The game is important, but really it’s about seeing celebrities at their best with their knowledge or lack thereof,” Collins said. “It was like Nate hosting the party at Drew’s house was the way we thought about it and everyone was welcome.”

The 2025 iteration of the series is no different. Laughter was the key component to making the show resonate.

Burleson, former NFL wide receiver, hosts the show. The football commentator said he felt lucky to have a front row seat to some of his favorite stars. The host discussed how he balanced letting the comedians riff but keeping the show on track.

“You realize you’re better off sitting in the driver’s seat and letting everyone in the car lose their minds while paying attention to the road than trying to participate in the conversation, because that’s where it’s going to crash,” he told The Wrap.

Burleson said a show like “Hollywood Squares” is needed now more than ever. The intersection of fierce competition and spicy comedy makes this show a must-watch.

“When you try to get shows or events that bring us together, it’s usually concerts, comedy shows, stand-ups, sporting events, and this show gives you a little bit of everything,” the host and football commentator shared. TheWrap. “One thing we can all do together without our divisiveness wedged in the middle is laugh, and that’s what our show does.”

“Hollywood Squares” will air a special episode this Sunday after the AFC Divisional Playoff Game on CBS at 10:00 PM ET/PT. The game show will then air on Thursday, January 23, before returning to regularly scheduled programming, airing weekly on Wednesdays at 10 p.m. ET.