The comedian and talk show host became a household name with her 19-season run on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Now, she’s stepping away from the limelight, revealing that her Netflix special, filmed in August 2024, would be her last big project.
Interestingly, the announcement came around the time she and her wife, Portia de Rossi, celebrated their 16th wedding anniversary—a milestone Ellen called ‘both lucky and incredibly special.’
DeGeneres is widely recognized for her groundbreaking career, blending humor, heartfelt stories, and celebrity interviews in her daytime talk show. But her tenure ended in 2022 amidst claims of a toxic workplace environment, including accusations of harassment and discrimination.
The fallout from those allegations marked the end of her long-running show, leading to a quieter few years out of the public eye.
Looking back on her journey and the highs and lows of her career, she said: “This is the last time you’re going to see me. After my Netflix special, I’m done.”
The exposé featured accounts from former and current employees. One of them claimed: “That ‘be kind’ bulls**t only happens when the cameras are on. It’s all for show.”
Another added their take, stating: “It’s her responsibility to go beyond what executive producers tell her.”
However, it was clear the fallout marked a major turning point in her career and public image.
In typical fashion, Ellen has used her stand-up routines to process the events through humor.
She joked about her turbulent career, saying: “This is the second time I’ve been kicked out of show business… Eventually, they’re going to kick me out for a third time because I’m mean, old, and gay.”
She described the entire ordeal as ‘devastating,’ adding that it left a lasting impression on her confidence.
Beyond her professional life, Ellen and Portia have made significant personal changes too.
Known for their love of Montecito real estate, the pair have now relocated to the U.K.
This event prompted Ellen and Portia to take decisive action.
The couple, who have a history of flipping homes in Santa Barbara County, decided to expedite their move after Trump’s victory.
They had already purchased a charming property in the Cotswolds, about two hours from London, before the election.
Trump’s win only solidified their plans to leave the US behind and embrace a new life overseas.
This fresh start could be exactly what Ellen needs after the challenges of recent years, giving her space to focus on healing and rediscovery.
Reflecting on her experiences, Ellen joked during her Netflix special, For Your Approval: “The ‘Be kind’ girl wasn’t kind,” She added with her signature wit: “Had I ended my show by saying, ‘Go f*** yourselves,’ people would have been pleasantly surprised to find out I’m kind.”
