Ellen DeGeneres Reflects on the End of Her Talk Show in New Stand-Up Set
Ellen DeGeneres has embarked on her “Ellen’s Last Stand…Up Tour,” marking her first major endeavor since wrapping up “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” in 2022. During her stand-up set at the Coronet Theater in West Hollywood, Ellen candidly addressed the conclusion of her daytime talk show, describing it as being “kicked out of show business.”
The comedian humorously reflected on her transition from hosting a beloved talk show for 19 seasons to facing criticism and allegations of fostering a toxic work environment. Ellen acknowledged the irony of being known as the host who gave away prizes and danced up steps, contrasting it with the accusations of misconduct that surfaced in 2020. With a touch of self-deprecation, she joked about how surprising it would have been if she had ended her show with an expletive-laden farewell instead.
Ellen DeGeneres also referenced her past experiences with adversity in show business, recalling how her sitcom “Ellen” was canceled in 1998 shortly after she came out as gay. She humorously noted that this was now the second time she had been “kicked out of show business,” teasing the possibility of a third expulsion due to her perceived attributes of being mean, old, and gay.
The conclusion of “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” was overshadowed by allegations from former employees, who spoke out about experiencing a toxic work environment rife with racism, intimidation, and sexual harassment. These allegations sparked a scandal that tarnished the reputation of both the show and its host.
Former employees described a workplace culture characterized by bullying, belittlement, and discrimination, with allegations of racism and sexual harassment being pervasive behind the scenes. Complaints about such behavior were reportedly ignored or dismissed by HR, fostering a culture of silence and fear among staff members.
In response to the allegations, Ellen issued a statement apologizing for any pain or discomfort experienced by her employees and announced an internal investigation to address the issues raised. However, the controversy surrounding the workplace environment of “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” continues to cast a shadow over Ellen’s legacy in the entertainment industry.
As Ellen navigates this new chapter in her career with her stand-up tour, her candid reflections on the challenges and controversies surrounding the conclusion of her talk show offer insight into her resilience and willingness to confront difficult topics with humor and humility.