“If you’re watching because you love me, thank you. If you’re watching because you don’t love me, welcome,” the host began, addressing a virtual audience.
“This summer, there were allegations of a toxic work environment at our show and then there was an investigation. I learned that things happened here that never should have happened. I take that very seriously,” she said, going on to apologise to those affected directly.
“I know that I'm in a position of privilege and power and I realise that with that comes responsibility, and I take responsibility for what happens on my show.”
The 62-year-old TV show host then explained that her and the show’s team have made “necessary changes,”—it’s currently unclear what exactly those changes are—before announcing the premiere as the start to a new chapter. Ellen, known for her mantra to “be kind,” also admitted that she isn’t perfect. “I am that person that you see on TV. I am also a lot of other things. Sometimes I get sad. I get mad; I get anxious; I get frustrated; I get impatient, and I am working on all of that.”
“I got into this business to make people laugh and feel good. That’s my favourite thing to do. And now, I’m a boss of two hundred and seventy people, two hundred and seventy people who help make this show what it is. All I want is for every one of them to be happy and to be proud to work here.”
Whether these changes will make a difference and whether this really is the beginning of a new chapter for Ellen, her employees and the show's "toxic" work culture is unclear. For now, you can watch the full video below:
