Earlier this year, several current and ex-employees at The Ellen Show claimed that the show had a “toxic workplace.” Twitter began petitioning for her replacement as the news followed previous unrelated incidents about Ellen’s aggressive behaviour. And now, in the first episode since the allegations emerged, the controversial TV show host Ellen DeGeneres has addressed them.
“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:
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