Ellen DeGeneres is confronting the fallout from her talk show in her new Netflix comedy special, “For Your Approval.” Released on September 25, 2024, the special marks DeGeneres’ return to stand-up and directly addresses the controversies that plagued the final years of “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.” The show, which concluded after 19 seasons in May 2022, faced significant backlash starting in 2020, with accusations of a toxic work environment, bullying, racism, and even sexual harassment from former employees and guests.
The “Mean” Reputation
The special delves into the public perception of DeGeneres as “mean,” a label that gained significant traction following a viral social media thread and a BuzzFeed News report detailing allegations from former staffers. DeGeneres acknowledges the impact of these accusations, admitting that the idea of being seen as “mean” was “devastating.” She uses humor to address the situation, joking that she “got kicked out of show business” because “you can’t be mean and be in show business.”
Addressing the Toxic Workplace Allegations
In “For Your Approval,” DeGeneres also touches upon the allegations of a toxic work culture on her show. Following widespread reports, including those from former employees, WarnerMedia launched an internal investigation. DeGeneres has since apologized to her staff, acknowledging that she “wasn’t perfect” and that she is a “multilayered person” trying to learn from her mistakes. The show also saw the termination of three producers amid the allegations.
Career Reflections and Looking Forward
The Netflix special features DeGeneres reflecting on her entire career, from her early days to her stint as the voice of Dory in “Finding Nemo,” and ultimately, the end of her talk show. She shared that initially, she didn’t think she would be able to find humor in the situation or return to stand-up, but found the process “healing.” DeGeneres expresses a desire to be remembered as someone “beloved” rather than “mean,” and finds happiness in shedding the responsibilities of management and her personal brand.
Notable Guest and On-Air Moments
Throughout its nearly two-decade run, “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” featured thousands of guests and countless memorable moments, some of which became points of contention. Instances like Dakota Johnson’s awkward interview in 2019, where DeGeneres was accused of not being invited to a party, went viral. Other moments included Katy Perry’s surprise at DeGeneres forgetting she was married, and Mariah Carey’s discomfort when DeGeneres announced her pregnancy on air, which was particularly sensitive as Carey later experienced a miscarriage. Sofia Vergara also addressed an instance where DeGeneres appeared to mock her accent, though Vergara defended it as a comedic skit.
The End of an Era
“The Ellen DeGeneres Show” concluded on May 26, 2022, after 19 seasons and 64 Daytime Emmy Awards. The finale featured a star-studded lineup of guests, including Michelle Obama, Kim Kardashian, and Diane Keaton, who shared memories and favorite moments from the show’s history. Despite the controversies, DeGeneres’ impact on daytime television remains significant, with the show often praised for its focus on positivity, kindness, and connecting with celebrity guests.
FAQ
What is Ellen DeGeneres’ new Netflix special called?
Ellen DeGeneres’ new Netflix comedy special is called “For Your Approval.”
When did “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” end?
“The Ellen DeGeneres Show” concluded its 19-year run on May 26, 2022.
What were the main controversies surrounding “The Ellen DeGeneres Show”?
The main controversies included allegations of a toxic work environment, bullying, racism, and sexual harassment from former employees and producers, as well as public perception of DeGeneres being “mean.”
