What Is Ellen Degeneres Doing Now? Many people are asking, and WHAT.EDU.VN is here to provide the answers. After a significant career filled with both acclaim and controversy, the comedian and former talk show host has shifted her focus. We’ll explore her recent activities, including her return to stand-up comedy and future plans. Discover what she’s been up to, including her Netflix special and reflections on her career.
1. What Accusations Did Ellen DeGeneres Face?
In July 2020, Ellen DeGeneres faced significant accusations of fostering a “toxic work environment” on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. These allegations came from anonymous former and current staff members in a report published by BuzzFeed News.
Specific Claims Against Her
- Penalties for Medical Leave: Staff members reported being penalized for taking medical leave, creating an environment where employees felt discouraged from prioritizing their health.
- Racial Microaggressions: Instances of racial microaggressions were reported, contributing to a hostile and uncomfortable atmosphere for some employees.
- Fear of Retribution: Employees expressed fear of retribution for raising complaints, which silenced concerns and perpetuated the alleged toxic culture.
- “Be Kind” Facade: Ex-employees claimed that DeGeneres’ public persona of “be kind” was merely a facade, contrasting sharply with the reality behind the scenes.
Following the publication of the BuzzFeed report, WarnerMedia initiated an internal review of The Ellen Show. DeGeneres also addressed the staff in a lengthy memo, stating that she was “glad the issues at our show were brought to my attention” and that they were “taking steps … to correct” them.
Subsequent Developments
On July 30, BuzzFeed released a second report alleging sexual misconduct and harassment involving top producers at The Ellen Show. Former staff members anonymously accused head writer Kevin Leman and executive producer Ed Glavin of misconduct.
In the aftermath, several celebrities, including DeGeneres’ wife Portia De Rossi and Katy Perry, expressed support for DeGeneres. However, others, such as former DJ Tony Okungbowa, supported his colleagues.
On August 17, DeGeneres issued a second apology to staffers after three top producers—Ed Glavin, Kevin Leman, and Jonathan Norman—parted ways with the show following an internal investigation by WarnerMedia.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749×0:751×2)/ellen-1-93b1899b48d149879680ea66952d1e54.jpg)
2. Why Did The Ellen DeGeneres Show End?
The Ellen DeGeneres Show concluded with season 19, with its final episode airing in May 2022. DeGeneres welcomed back her first-ever guest, Jennifer Aniston, to close out the show, along with Pink and Billie Eilish.
DeGeneres’ Explanation
DeGeneres first announced the show’s end in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter on May 12, 2021, explaining that she needed a new challenge. “When you’re a creative person, you constantly need to be challenged — and as great as this show is, and as fun as it is, it’s just not a challenge anymore,” she stated. She further elaborated on her decision in interviews with Today and Oprah Winfrey.
Addressing the Controversy
During an episode of Today, Savannah Guthrie asked DeGeneres directly about the allegations of workplace toxicity and whether they contributed to her decision to end the show. “Did you feel like you were being canceled?” Guthrie inquired.
DeGeneres responded, “I really didn’t understand it; I still don’t understand it. It was too orchestrated; it was too coordinated.” She maintained that the controversy was not the primary reason for her departure, stating, “If that was why I was quitting, I would’ve not come back this year. I really did think about not coming back because it was devastating.” She emphasized, “I am a kind person… I am a person who likes to make people happy.”
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(824×119:826×121)/ellen-finale-bdba61d4d86248718cc449c56c501e37.jpg)
3. Is Ellen DeGeneres Still Performing Stand-Up Comedy?
Ellen DeGeneres, who began her career in stand-up comedy, has indeed returned to her roots. In December 2018, she released her Netflix special, Relatable, marking her return to stand-up after 15 years.
Recent Stand-Up Performances
In February 2024, DeGeneres teased her return to stand-up with a surprise set at the Largo in Los Angeles during Beth Stelling’s “Beth & Pals” show. She even shared a video on Instagram previewing her routine.
During an April 2024 stand-up set at the Largo, DeGeneres reflected on her talk show and joked about being “kicked out of show business” for being “mean” in reference to the 2020 BuzzFeed News report. She humorously addressed how she became the “most hated person in America” and the challenges she faced during that period.
“Ellen’s Last Stand… Up” Tour
In May 2024, DeGeneres announced the “Ellen’s Last Stand… Up” tour, consisting of 27 shows. However, less than a month after its start in June, she canceled several show dates between July and August, according to Ticketmaster.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(739×188:741×190)/Ellen-DeGeneres-Relatable-051324-25f5c69d973f4640ab237dfe9d6d1af8.jpg)
4. Has Ellen DeGeneres Publicly Addressed the Allegations?
Ellen DeGeneres has indeed addressed the allegations of a “toxic work environment” in various interviews, Q&As, and stand-up routines since the claims surfaced in the 2020 BuzzFeed News report. Most recently, she referenced them in her July 2024 stand-up set during her “Ellen’s Last Stand…Up” tour.
Remarks During Stand-Up Performances
During a performance at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts in Santa Rosa, DeGeneres humorously reflected on her recent experiences, stating, “Let me catch you up on what’s been going on with me since you last saw me. I got chickens. Oh yeah, and I got kicked out of show business for being mean.”
She also admitted, “I used to say, ‘I don’t care what people say about me.’ Now I realize I said that during the height of my popularity.” She then joked, “Next time, I’ll be kicked out for being old. Old, gay and mean, the triple crown.”
Explanations and Reflections
DeGeneres also addressed the potential reasons behind the accusations, acknowledging, “I can be demanding and impatient and tough. I am a strong woman. I am many things, but I am not mean.”
In her 2024 Netflix special, DeGeneres reflected on being “kicked out of show business” for being “mean” and highlighted the double standards in how men and women are perceived. “We have all these unwritten rules based on gender of acceptable behavior, of who we’re allowed to be, and how we’re allowed to act,” she said. “And if we don’t follow those rules, it makes people uncomfortable. And when people get uncomfortable, there are consequences. For those of you keeping score, this is the second time I’ve been kicked out of show business.”
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(714×157:716×159)/Ellen-DeGeneres-during-the-62nd-Annual-Grammy-Awards-2020-052924-0e88d71ce3284af38d860f592f80fc8a.jpg)
5. Where is Ellen DeGeneres Now?
Aside from her stand-up tour, Ellen DeGeneres announced in May 2024 that she would be releasing a Netflix special later that year. This special, her second on the streaming platform after Relatable in 2018, is expected to be her final taped special.
Future Plans and Reflections
In a release shared with PEOPLE, DeGeneres stated, “To answer the questions everyone is asking me — Yes, I’m going to talk about it. Yes this is my last special. Yes, Portia [de Rossi] really is that pretty in real life.”
During the Q&A portion of her July 2024 stand-up routine, DeGeneres was asked about a potential return to fame after reflecting on her past mistakes. However, DeGeneres gave a firm “no,” according to SFGate. She added, “This is the last time you’re going to see me. After my Netflix special, I’m done.”
The special premiered on September 24, 2024, featuring DeGeneres’ reflections on spending “an entire lifetime trying to make people happy.”
“I’ve cared far too much what other people think of me, so the thought of anyone thinking that I’m mean was devastating to me, and it consumed me for a long time. But with time, you gain perspective … with perspective, you realize that caring what people think to a degree is healthy, but not if it affects your mental health,” she concluded.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(865×528:867×530)/Ellen-DeGeneres-021724-01-238a9cadc1354161aca652e630e8a04c.jpg)
6. Ellen DeGeneres: A Timeline of Key Events
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2003 | The Ellen DeGeneres Show debuts, quickly gaining popularity. |
| 2018 | Returns to stand-up comedy with Netflix special Relatable. |
| 2020 | Accusations of a toxic work environment surface, leading to internal investigations. |
| 2021 | Announces the end of The Ellen DeGeneres Show, citing a need for new challenges. |
| 2022 | The Ellen DeGeneres Show airs its final episode. |
| 2024 | Returns to stand-up with surprise performances and announces “Ellen’s Last Stand… Up” tour. |
| 2024 | Releases final Netflix stand-up special, reflecting on her career and addressing past controversies. |
7. Common Questions About Ellen DeGeneres
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What was the main reason for The Ellen DeGeneres Show ending? | DeGeneres stated she needed new creative challenges and the show no longer provided that. |
| How did Ellen DeGeneres address the toxic workplace allegations? | She issued apologies, acknowledged the issues, and mentioned them in her stand-up routines and Netflix special. |
| What is Ellen DeGeneres’ latest Netflix special about? | It’s a reflection on her career, addressing the controversies and her feelings about them. |
| Is Ellen DeGeneres planning to return to television? | As of her statements in 2024, she indicated that she is done with television and stand-up after her final Netflix special. |
| What were the main allegations against The Ellen DeGeneres Show? | The main allegations included penalties for medical leave, racial microaggressions, fear of retribution for complaints, and a discrepancy between her “be kind” persona and the actual work environment. |
| How did celebrities react to the allegations against Ellen DeGeneres? | Some celebrities supported DeGeneres, while others supported the staff members who came forward with the allegations. |
| What did Ellen DeGeneres say about being “kicked out of show business”? | She joked about it in her stand-up routines and addressed the double standards in how men and women are treated in the industry. |
| What is Ellen DeGeneres doing with her time now? | She has been involved in stand-up comedy, releasing a Netflix special, and reflecting on her career and past experiences. |
| What impact did the controversy have on Ellen DeGeneres’ career? | The controversy led to the end of her talk show and a period of reflection, after which she returned to stand-up comedy to address and process the events. |
| How does Ellen DeGeneres feel about her legacy? | She has mixed feelings, acknowledging the impact of the controversies but also reflecting on her career spent trying to make people happy. |
8. Deep Dive: The Impact of the Toxic Workplace Allegations
The allegations of a toxic work environment at The Ellen DeGeneres Show had a profound impact on Ellen DeGeneres’ career and public image. Here’s a closer look at the repercussions:
Immediate Consequences
- Public Scrutiny: The allegations led to intense public scrutiny, with many questioning the authenticity of DeGeneres’ “be kind” persona.
- Internal Investigation: WarnerMedia launched an internal investigation, leading to the departure of several top producers.
- Sponsor Concerns: Some sponsors expressed concerns about the allegations and their association with the show.
Long-Term Effects
- End of the Talk Show: The controversy likely contributed to DeGeneres’ decision to end her long-running talk show.
- Reputation Damage: DeGeneres’ reputation suffered, with many viewing her in a different light.
- Career Shift: DeGeneres shifted her focus to stand-up comedy, using it as a platform to address the allegations and reflect on her experiences.
DeGeneres’ Response
- Apologies: DeGeneres issued multiple apologies to her staff and the public, acknowledging the issues and vowing to do better.
- Reflection: She took time to reflect on her behavior and the work environment she fostered.
- Stand-Up Comedy: DeGeneres used her stand-up routines to address the allegations with humor and candor.
9. Exploring Ellen DeGeneres’ Stand-Up Comeback
Ellen DeGeneres’ return to stand-up comedy has been a significant part of her recent career, allowing her to reconnect with her roots and address the controversies she faced.
Relatable (2018)
Her Netflix special Relatable marked her first return to stand-up in 15 years. In this special, DeGeneres explored themes of fame, wealth, and the challenges of staying relatable to her audience.
“Ellen’s Last Stand… Up” Tour (2024)
This tour was intended to be her final stand-up tour, offering fans a chance to see her live and address her recent experiences. However, some dates were canceled, leaving fans wondering about her future plans.
Comedy Style
DeGeneres’ comedy style is characterized by observational humor, self-deprecation, and a focus on everyday life. She often incorporates personal anecdotes and reflections on her career.
Audience Reception
Her stand-up comeback has been met with mixed reviews, with some praising her honesty and humor, while others criticize her for not fully addressing the controversies.
10. Ellen DeGeneres’ Philanthropic Efforts
Despite the controversies, Ellen DeGeneres has been known for her philanthropic efforts and charitable contributions.
The Ellen DeGeneres Show Initiatives
Throughout her talk show, DeGeneres often highlighted charitable causes and provided financial support to individuals and organizations in need.
Wildlife Conservation
DeGeneres is a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation and has supported various organizations dedicated to protecting endangered species.
LGBTQ+ Rights
As an openly gay woman, DeGeneres has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has used her platform to promote equality and acceptance.
Other Charitable Activities
DeGeneres has also supported disaster relief efforts, educational initiatives, and other charitable causes.
Impact
Her philanthropic efforts have had a positive impact on numerous individuals and communities, highlighting her commitment to making a difference in the world.
11. The Future of Ellen DeGeneres’ Career
While Ellen DeGeneres has stated that she is done with television and stand-up comedy after her final Netflix special, her future career remains uncertain.
Potential Projects
- Producing: DeGeneres may focus on producing television shows or movies, using her experience and connections to support other talents.
- Writing: She could pursue writing, either for television, movies, or books.
- Activism: DeGeneres may dedicate more time to her philanthropic efforts and activism, advocating for causes she believes in.
Opportunities
- Streaming Platforms: With the rise of streaming platforms, there may be opportunities for DeGeneres to create content for these platforms.
- Public Speaking: She could pursue public speaking engagements, sharing her experiences and insights with audiences.
- Brand Partnerships: DeGeneres could partner with brands that align with her values and create content or products together.
Possibilities
- Retirement: DeGeneres may choose to retire from public life and focus on her personal life and interests.
- New Ventures: She could explore new ventures outside of the entertainment industry, such as business or real estate.
- Continued Philanthropy: DeGeneres may continue to support charitable causes and make a difference in the world.
12. What’s Next for Ellen? Final Thoughts
Ellen DeGeneres’ career has been marked by both success and controversy. As she moves forward, she has the opportunity to redefine her legacy and make a positive impact on the world. Whether she chooses to pursue new projects, dedicate more time to philanthropy, or retire from public life, her future remains full of possibilities.
Key Takeaways
- Ellen DeGeneres is known for her contributions to comedy, television, and philanthropy.
- She faced significant allegations of fostering a toxic work environment on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.
- DeGeneres has addressed the allegations in various ways, including apologies, reflections, and stand-up routines.
- She has stated that she is done with television and stand-up comedy after her final Netflix special.
- Her future career remains uncertain, but she has the potential to pursue new projects, activism, or philanthropy.
13. FAQ: Ellen DeGeneres – Addressing Common Inquiries
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is Ellen DeGeneres’ net worth? | Ellen DeGeneres’ net worth is estimated to be around $500 million, accumulated from her successful career in comedy, television, and endorsements. |
| Is Ellen DeGeneres married? | Yes, Ellen DeGeneres is married to actress Portia de Rossi. They have been married since 2008. |
| Does Ellen DeGeneres have any children? | No, Ellen DeGeneres does not have any children. |
| What awards has Ellen DeGeneres won? | Ellen DeGeneres has won numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards for The Ellen DeGeneres Show, People’s Choice Awards, and a Presidential Medal of Freedom. |
| What is Ellen DeGeneres’ connection to New Orleans? | Ellen DeGeneres was born and raised in Louisiana, and she has often spoken about her connection to New Orleans and her love for the city. She has also supported various charitable causes in New Orleans. |
| What is Ellen DeGeneres’ height? | Ellen DeGeneres is approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall. |
| What are some of Ellen DeGeneres’ most famous quotes? | Some of Ellen DeGeneres’ most famous quotes include “Be kind to one another,” “Just keep swimming,” and “Follow your passion.” |
| What is Ellen DeGeneres’ birthdate? | Ellen DeGeneres was born on January 26, 1958. |
| What is Ellen DeGeneres’ political affiliation? | Ellen DeGeneres is known to be a supporter of the Democratic Party and has been involved in various political campaigns. |
| What is Ellen DeGeneres’ connection to the LGBTQ+ community? | Ellen DeGeneres is an openly gay woman and has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career. She came out as gay in 1997, which was a groundbreaking moment for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media. |
14. Learn More and Get Your Questions Answered at WHAT.EDU.VN
Do you have more questions about Ellen DeGeneres or any other topic? WHAT.EDU.VN is here to help. Our platform offers a free and easy way to get your questions answered quickly and accurately.
Why Use WHAT.EDU.VN?
- Free Answers: Get your questions answered without any cost.
- Fast Responses: Our community of experts provides quick and reliable answers.
- Easy to Use: Our platform is simple and intuitive, making it easy to ask questions and find information.
- Diverse Topics: We cover a wide range of topics, from entertainment and current events to education and technology.
How to Get Started
- Visit our website: WHAT.EDU.VN
- Type your question in the search bar.
- Browse existing answers or ask a new question.
- Connect with our community and get the information you need.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us:
- Address: 888 Question City Plaza, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
- WhatsApp: +1 (206) 555-7890
- Website: WHAT.EDU.VN
Don’t hesitate! Ask your questions now and discover the answers you’ve been searching for. WHAT.EDU.VN is your go-to resource for reliable and free information.
Are you struggling to find answers to your burning questions? Do you need quick and reliable information without the hassle? Look no further than WHAT.EDU.VN! Our platform offers a seamless experience for asking any question and receiving prompt, accurate answers from a knowledgeable community. Don’t let your curiosity wait – visit WHAT.EDU.VN today and unlock a world of free and accessible information. We understand the challenges of finding reliable answers quickly and without cost. That’s why WHAT.EDU.VN is dedicated to providing a platform where you can ask any question and receive prompt, accurate answers from a knowledgeable community.
Take action now! Visit what.edu.vn and ask your question today. Join the community of curious minds and get the answers you deserve, absolutely free. Unlock a world of knowledge and discover the ease of finding the information you need, all in one convenient place.
