Los Angeles, California – Ellen DeGeneres recently debuted her final standup special on Netflix, where she candidly discussed being “canceled” and the aftermath of facing criticism for allegedly fostering a toxic work environment on her long-running daytime talk show.
Throughout her comedy special, titled “For Your Approval,” DeGeneres shared her experience of seeking therapy to cope with the overwhelming backlash she received. Reflecting on the intense scrutiny she faced, she recalled her therapist questioning her belief that everyone hated her, citing negative media coverage from outlets like The New York Times and Entertainment Weekly as examples.
DeGeneres humorously recounted the moment her therapist advised her to avoid consuming news and media to protect her mental well-being, despite her already steering clear of such content. The comedian humorously described receiving supportive texts from friends during challenging times, highlighting the isolating nature of being embroiled in controversy.
Addressing the cancellation of her long-standing talk show, DeGeneres joked about being effectively “kicked out of show business.” She playfully acknowledged the stark contrast between the persona she projected on air, promoting kindness, and the unfavorable portrayals in the media that emerged following the workplace allegations.
In a self-deprecating tone, DeGeneres poked fun at the discrepancy between her public image and the media narrative surrounding her, suggesting that her sign-off message of “be kind to one another” might have been better received had she adopted a more irreverent persona. The comedian’s raw and introspective reflections on navigating public scrutiny shed light on the complexities of maintaining a public persona in the face of criticism. The standup special serves as a platform for DeGeneres to address her experiences candidly, offering a glimpse into her journey of self-discovery and resilience in the wake of adversity.