Star Drive-In Owner Slams ‘Hearsay’ About Restaurant Closure

It’s been an emotional week for the owners and employees of the Star Drive-In in East Taunton. After months of swirling rumors, owner Erika Madden confirmed early Friday via Facebook that she will not be renewing the lease for the restaurant’s current location.

Needless to say, the news sparked waves of disappointment among fans of the decades-old drive-in. Social media quickly filled with speculation and dramatic theories about why the restaurant will close in March 2026.

READ MORE: East Taunton's Star Drive-In Announces Emotional Impending Closure

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Rumors Meet Reality

Madden addressed the rumors directly in her Facebook post:

“I would greatly appreciate it if people who know nothing about the situation stop posting conjecture and hearsay! I decided everything will be made public soon," she wrote. "I wanted to stay above the fray, but several statements and letters have been submitted that are 100 percent untrue.”

Fans Speak Out in Support

Her plea was met with outpourings of support from the community. One commenter, Ben Sawdo, wrote:

“We anticipate a promising future… we are confident those who value your contributions will continue to support your future endeavors…”

Mark Lawrence summed it up more bluntly:

“Don’t let anyone get you down. You run an incredible business… ignore the idiots.”

The support was so overwhelming that it moved Madden to tears:

“Just wow! Now I’m crying again. Fourth time today…”

What Happens Next For the Star Drive-In?

Unless something changes between now and March 2026, the Star Drive-In will close its doors forever at the end of the current lease. Madden didn’t go into detail about the reasoning, but she implied that ongoing issues with the landlord and a lack of support from city officials played a role.

Madden said she still plans to share her full story at a later time.

The Star Drive-In was unexpectedly closed today and Madden was unavailable for comment.