Key Takeaways:
– Renowned TV star Ellen DeGeneres announced her departure from the entertainment world after her Netflix special.
– The TV personality reflects on her past actions and addresses allegations of a toxic work environment.
– DeGeneres faced serious backlash in 2020, culminating in the cancellation of her famous show.
Ellen DeGeneres Steps Away from Showbiz
Well-loved television personality and stand-up comedian, Ellen DeGeneres, recently made headlines by announcing her ceasing from the glam world after her Netflix special. Ellen, who started her career in the early 1980s, had a successful run with her Ellen sitcom, leading to the launch of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. It aired for 19 seasons before closing stages two years ago.
Ellen's Last Stand…Up marks her farewell tour from the industry. On July 1, for her show at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts in Santa Rosa, she created quite stir by expressing, “This is the last time you're going to see me. After my Netflix special, I'm done.”
Ellen Opens Up About Past Allegations
No stranger to acclaim and controversy, Ellen used the stage to address the significant shifts in her life and career since her show ended. The 33-time Daytime Emmy awardee reflected on her experiences over the last two years, including allegations of her being mean. She confessed, “I can be demanding and impatient and tough. I am a strong woman. I am many things, but I am not mean.”
Addressing the accusations that had marked her career, she expressed how the entire ordeal made her realize the importance of public perception. She expressed regret for the times she shrugged off critics during the height of her popularity, and made a humorous jest about the next reason she might be ousted, “for being old, gay, and mean, the triple crown.”
Troubled Times for Ellen
Looking back, DeGeneres' reputation took a significant hit in 2020 due to accusations of fostering a toxic work environment. Her show, known for spreading kindness and humor, suddenly faced backlash following serious allegations from staff.
BuzzFeed News published an explosive article recounting experiences of several former employees. They claimed a hostile work ambiance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, alleging instances of racial microaggressions, fear, and intimidation. The report also cited allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior by senior producers.
Coming to terms with these claims resulted in the firing of three producers, but the show struggled to regain its former glory. It eventually ended after 19 successful seasons. These series of events have eventually led to Ellen's decision to step away from showbiz, thereby marking the end of an era.
While Ellen addressed her past actions and accepted her mistakes, she carefully refrained from a complete apology. Over the years, she acknowledged the rumors about her being mean but never fully admitted to these allegations. Her departure from the world of entertainment will leave a significant void, but her story serves as a crucial lesson about the effects a lapse in esteemed conduct can have on one's career and public image. Ellen's comedic brilliance will be missed, and her legacy will continue to inspire many.
