Ellen DeGeneres is ‘done’ with fame after Netflix special: ‘This is the last time you’re going to see me’

Ellen DeGeneres, the iconic comedian and talk show host, has announced her retirement from the entertainment industry, marking the end of an era. This decision comes after a celebrated career spanning decades, during which DeGeneres became a household name and an influential figure in the world of television and comedy.

The recent years have not been without their fair share of drama for DeGeneres. In 2020, current and former employees of her eponymous talk show spoke out about the alleged toxic work environment, citing incidents of bullying, racism, and a general lack of care for the well-being of her staff. This revelation shook the foundations of the “be kind” image that DeGeneres had carefully cultivated over the years, leading to a public relations crisis that she has struggled to recover from. DeGeneres has not shied away from addressing the controversy, acknowledging her shortcomings and mistakes. In a recent stand-up performance, she admitted, “I got kicked out of show business for being mean.” She also recognized that her previous claim of not caring about what people said about her was false, stating, “Now I realize I said that during the height of my popularity.”

Despite the tumultuous events, DeGeneres has maintained that her decision to end her iconic talk show and retire from the entertainment industry is not directly related to the behind-the-scenes drama. Instead, she cites a desire for a new challenge, stating, “When you’re a creative person, you constantly need to be challenged – and as great as this show is, and as fun as it is, it’s just not a challenge anymore.”

Throughout her illustrious career, DeGeneres has left an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape. Her groundbreaking talk show, which ran for 19 seasons, became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing her signature brand of humor, warmth, and advocacy for important causes. She has also been recognized with numerous accolades, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

As DeGeneres prepares to bid farewell to her fans, the entertainment world is left to ponder the legacy she will leave behind. While the controversies that have plagued her in recent years may have tarnished her reputation to some degree, her contributions to the industry and her ability to connect with audiences on a deep level are undeniable.

The retirement of Ellen DeGeneres marks the end of an era, a testament to the power of resilience and the complexities of navigating the ever-changing landscape of fame and public perception. As she steps away from the spotlight, her story serves as a reminder that even the most beloved figures in entertainment can face challenges, and the true measure of their legacy lies in how they confront and overcome them.

In her final Netflix special, DeGeneres reflects on her career and the journey that has brought her to this pivotal moment. Her departure from the public eye is not just an end but also a new beginning, as she seeks out new challenges and opportunities beyond the realm of fame and entertainment. While fans will miss her daily presence on television, the impact of her work and the memories she has created will endure, leaving a lasting legacy that transcends the controversies and celebrates the essence of her contributions to the world of entertainment.