Ellen DeGeneres is finally speaking up about how reports of a toxic workplace environment on her show affected her mental health. In her most recent Netflix special, Ellen DeGeneres: For Your Approval, the comedian reflects on her career, revealing that public accusations took a toll on her.
DeGeneres, whose talk show The Ellen DeGeneres Show aired for 19 seasons between 2003 and 2022, addressed the impact of the workplace allegations in her new special, which premiered on Netflix on Tuesday, September 24.
The charges were originally made public in July 2020 by BuzzFeed News, which accused her show of creating a toxic work environment. Although DeGeneres publicly apologized during the final season of her show, she has yet to adequately explain how deeply the charges upset her.
“I’m happy not being a boss, a brand, or a billboard, just a person,” DeGeneres said on stage, revealing how she’s dealt with the experience. “Just a multifaceted person with different feelings and emotions, and I can be happy and sad and compassionate or frustrated.”
The comedian did not hesitate to acknowledge the challenges that she faced during the controversy. “I have OCD and ADD. I’m honest. I’m generous. I’m sensitive and thoughtful,” she stated in her special. “But I’m tough, and I’m impatient, and I’m demanding. I’m direct. I’m a strong woman.”
The revelations brought cheers from the audience, which replied with a standing ovation. DeGeneres visibly moved, mouthed thank you and said she was proud of who she’s become.