Ellen DeGeneres was once one of the most beloved personalities in American entertainment. Known for her quick wit, kindness-first mantra, and groundbreaking achievements, she built a media empire with The Ellen DeGeneres Show, a daytime talk show that ran for nearly two decades. But by the end of its run in 2022, Ellen’s legacy had shifted from bubbly host to controversial figure. With allegations of workplace toxicity, public criticism, and a surprising move to the UK in 2024, fans and critics alike have been asking: What happened to Ellen DeGeneres?
From Beloved Host to Public Scrutiny
Ellen rose to fame as a stand-up comedian and actress in the 1990s. She broke barriers when she came out as gay on national television in 1997, both in real life and through her character on the sitcom Ellen. Her courage made her a pioneer for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media.
After a brief career lull, she returned stronger than ever with The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2003. The show became a massive success, praised for its humor, celebrity interviews, giveaways, and focus on kindness and generosity. For years, Ellen was considered “America’s sweetheart.”
But behind the scenes, a very different narrative was unfolding.
Toxic Workplace Allegations
In 2020, BuzzFeed News published a series of investigative reports citing former and current employees of The Ellen DeGeneres Show who described a toxic work culture. The allegations included:
- Bullying and intimidation from senior producers
- Racism and microaggressions towards staff of color
- Sexual misconduct allegations against some high-ranking producers
- Retaliation against employees who complained or took medical leave
While Ellen herself wasn’t directly accused of abusive behavior, many claimed she turned a blind eye or created an atmosphere where toxicity flourished.
The irony was stark: a host who ended every show urging people to “be kind” was now at the center of an unkind work environment.
Ellen’s Response and the Fallout
Ellen issued an apology both in a memo to staff and publicly during the show’s Season 18 premiere in September 2020. She acknowledged that things happened “that never should have happened” and took responsibility as the leader of the program.
Despite the apology, the damage to her public image was significant. Ratings plummeted. Longtime fans turned skeptical. Advertisers grew wary. While three top producers were let go, many believed Ellen’s response was too little, too late.
In 2021, she announced that the show would end in 2022 after its 19th season, claiming it was simply time to move on though few doubted the allegations played a major role in the decision.
Life After the Show
After The Ellen DeGeneres Show ended in May 2022, Ellen kept a relatively low profile. She remained active in animal rights and philanthropy, but her public appearances became sparse. She continued to live with her wife, actress Portia de Rossi, in their California estate, dabbling in real estate (a longtime hobby) and launching a docuseries on gorilla conservation.
But in 2024, a new chapter began one that few saw coming.
Moving to the UK
In early 2024, it was reported that Ellen and Portia had quietly relocated to the United Kingdom. The move, initially rumored to be temporary, has since been confirmed as a more permanent lifestyle change.
Why the UK?
Several sources close to the couple cited a few key reasons for the relocation:
- Privacy and Distance from U.S. Media:
The backlash from the workplace scandal had taken a toll. The move allowed Ellen to escape the constant media scrutiny and aggressive paparazzi coverage in Los Angeles. - A “Soft Reset”:
Living abroad offered a chance for a fresh start. Ellen reportedly found the UK public less intrusive and judgmental, providing a calmer environment for both her personal and professional life. - New Opportunities:
Ellen was rumored to be in talks for UK-based media and charity work. There has even been speculation about her launching a wildlife or travel show for a UK network, possibly reflecting her shift away from comedy toward advocacy and nature. - Portia’s Heritage:
Though born in Australia, Portia de Rossi has strong ties to the UK through business and philanthropic connections, which also influenced their decision.
Public Perception Today
Ellen’s public image has been permanently altered. While some fans still cherish her past contributions to comedy and LGBTQ+ visibility, others feel her legacy is tainted by hypocrisy and mistreatment behind the scenes.
She has not returned to the spotlight in any major way since her move to the UK. There have been no new talk shows, comedy tours, or memoirs. Instead, she seems content with a quieter, more introspective life.
That said, some believe that Ellen is slowly laying the groundwork for a rebrand one that steers away from celebrity culture and toward environmental advocacy, philanthropy, and behind-the-scenes media work.
Conclusion
So, what happened to Ellen DeGeneres? In short: a fall from grace. Once one of the most beloved figures on television, she faced a wave of credible allegations that shattered the illusion of her public persona. Her show ended, her reputation dimmed, and she left the American media landscape entirely choosing instead to live a more private life in the UK.
Whether Ellen makes a return to the public eye remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: her story is a reminder that in the era of social accountability, even the most untouchable celebrities can face consequences when the spotlight turns inward.
