Ellen DeGeneres is one of the most well-known figures in the entertainment industry, but many people often ask, what did Ellen DeGeneres do? From revolutionizing daytime television to facing public controversies, her journey has been full of highs and lows. She built an empire through The Ellen DeGeneres Show, became a voice for LGBTQ+ representation in media, and was celebrated for her philanthropy. However, allegations of workplace misconduct in later years clouded her career, sparking debates about her true legacy. This article explores Ellen’s career milestones, charitable work, controversies, and the lasting impact she left on Hollywood and beyond.
What did Ellen DeGeneres do?
Ellen DeGeneres is a comedian, television host, and philanthropist known for The Ellen DeGeneres Show, her role in Finding Nemo, and her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. She made history as one of the first openly gay TV stars and built a media empire. However, her career faced backlash due to allegations of workplace toxicity on her show, leading to its cancellation in 2022. Her influence remains significant in entertainment and philanthropy.
The Rise of Ellen DeGeneres: A Trailblazer in Comedy and Television
Ellen DeGeneres began her career in stand-up comedy during the early 1980s, performing in small clubs before gaining national recognition. Her observational humor and relatable storytelling led her to appear on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1986, marking a turning point in her career. Soon after, she landed her sitcom, Ellen, which aired from 1994 to 1998.
Her show became groundbreaking when Ellen’s character came out as gay in 1997, making history as the first openly lesbian lead character on primetime television. This revelation was both a bold move and a risk, as it led to backlash from sponsors and networks. However, it also paved the way for greater LGBTQ+ representation in media.
Following the cancellation of Ellen, DeGeneres transitioned into hosting, launching The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2003. The daytime talk show became a massive success, earning multiple Emmy Awards and making her one of the most beloved television hosts in America. Her signature blend of humor, generosity, and heartfelt interviews captivated audiences for nearly two decades.
How Ellen DeGeneres Revolutionized Daytime TV
Bringing Laughter and Joy to Audiences
Ellen’s show stood out due to its lighthearted and entertaining format. Unlike traditional talk shows, she incorporated dance, pranks, and games into her interviews, making celebrity interactions more fun and engaging.
Introducing Viral Moments
One of Ellen’s greatest strengths was creating viral content. Many of her interviews, comedic segments, and giveaways spread rapidly across social media, increasing her influence beyond television.
Generosity and Philanthropy
Ellen was known for her generous giveaways and charity work. From surprising struggling families with life-changing donations to supporting various social causes, her philanthropic efforts were a core part of her show.
Championing LGBTQ+ Representation
As an openly gay public figure, Ellen used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, inspiring many to live authentically and fight for equal rights.
Major Achievements in Ellen DeGeneres’ Career
- Hosting the Academy Awards – Ellen DeGeneres hosted the Oscars twice, in 2007 and 2014, creating some of the most memorable moments in award show history. Her 2014 monologue, filled with witty humor and playful jabs, was widely praised. She also made history by orchestrating the famous star-studded selfie, which became the most retweeted photo at the time.
- Voice Acting in Finding Nemo and Finding Dory – Ellen brought to life the character of Dory, a forgetful yet lovable fish, in Disney-Pixar’s Finding Nemo (2003) and its sequel Finding Dory (2016). Her performance was met with critical acclaim, making Dory one of the most beloved animated characters in film history. The role significantly contributed to her influence in Hollywood and introduced her to younger generations.
- Receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom – In 2016, President Barack Obama honored Ellen with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the U.S. This recognition acknowledged her contributions to entertainment and her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, as she played a key role in promoting inclusivity and acceptance.
- Successful Business Ventures – Ellen expanded her influence beyond television by launching several successful business ventures. Her lifestyle brand, ED by Ellen, offers apparel, home goods, and accessories, while her production company, A Very Good Production, has developed popular television shows.
- Philanthropy and Charitable Contributions – Known for her generosity, Ellen has donated millions of dollars to various causes, including disaster relief, wildlife conservation, and education. She has also used her platform to surprise individuals in need with financial aid, scholarships, and life-changing opportunities. Her charitable efforts have left a lasting impact on many communities worldwide.
What Controversy Did Ellen DeGeneres Face?
- Workplace Toxicity Allegations: In 2020, The Ellen DeGeneres Show came under intense scrutiny after former employees accused the production environment of being toxic. Reports emerged citing instances of workplace bullying, racism, and mistreatment by senior staff members. Employees described a culture of fear where negative experiences were allegedly ignored or dismissed. These allegations shocked fans, as Ellen had built her public image around kindness and positivity. The controversy quickly gained traction, with multiple employees and former guests speaking out about their experiences behind the scenes.
- Ellen’s Public Apology: Following the widespread backlash, Ellen DeGeneres addressed the allegations in a public statement. She expressed regret over the situation and took responsibility as the show’s leader, promising immediate changes to improve the workplace culture. Despite her apology, many critics believed it was too little, too late. Some former employees claimed that her response did not fully acknowledge the extent of the issues. While changes were reportedly made behind the scenes, the damage to Ellen’s reputation was significant, leading to a loss of trust among both fans and industry insiders.
- Declining Viewership and Show Cancellation: The controversy surrounding the show had a direct impact on its ratings. Viewership dropped significantly in the months following the allegations, as many fans distanced themselves from the once-beloved talk show. In 2021, Ellen announced that The Ellen DeGeneres Show would come to an end after its 19th season. The final episode aired in 2022, marking the end of an era in daytime television. While Ellen cited a desire to explore new creative ventures, many speculated that the declining popularity and ongoing backlash played a major role in the decision.
What is Ellen DeGeneres Doing Now?
Since the conclusion of The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Ellen DeGeneres has largely stepped away from the spotlight, choosing to focus on her personal life and philanthropic endeavors. While she is no longer a daily presence in the media, she remains committed to supporting various charitable causes. One of her primary areas of focus has been wildlife conservation, particularly through her Ellen DeGeneres Wildlife Fund, which works to protect endangered species and their habitats.
Beyond conservation efforts, Ellen has also continued her philanthropic work by donating to organizations that support education, disaster relief, and social justice. Over the years, she has used her influence to contribute to numerous charitable initiatives, and even after she departs from television, she remains dedicated to making a positive impact.
Although Ellen has distanced herself from mainstream entertainment, she has hinted at working on new creative projects, though details remain scarce. Instead of maintaining the high-profile presence she once had, she has opted for a quieter lifestyle, spending time with her wife, Portia de Rossi, and focusing on her passions. While her public appearances are now rare, her legacy in television, comedy, and philanthropy continues to influence millions worldwide.
Conclusion
Ellen DeGeneres left an undeniable mark on entertainment. She broke barriers in television, championed LGBTQ+ rights, and used her platform for good. While her career was not without controversy, her impact on comedy, philanthropy, and representation remains significant. Whether she returns to the spotlight or continues her quieter post-show life, her legacy in media will be remembered for years to come.
FAQ’s
Q. Why is Ellen DeGeneres famous?
A. Ellen DeGeneres is famous for her stand-up comedy, sitcom Ellen, hosting The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and her work in LGBTQ+ advocacy.
Q. What was the controversy surrounding Ellen DeGeneres?
A. In 2020, The Ellen DeGeneres Show faced allegations of workplace toxicity, leading to public backlash and a decline in viewership.
Q. Did Ellen DeGeneres retire?
A. Ellen has not officially retired, but after ending her show in 2022, she stepped back from television to focus on philanthropy and personal projects.
Q. What businesses does Ellen DeGeneres own?
A. Ellen has multiple business ventures, including her lifestyle brand, ED by Ellen, and her production company, A Very Good Production.
Q. What did Ellen DeGeneres do for the LGBTQ+ community?
A. Ellen made history as one of the first openly gay celebrities on TV, helping normalize LGBTQ+ representation and advocating for equal rights.
