Following an investigation about her toxic workplace environment, Ellen Degeneres has returned for season 18 of her show with a patchy apology.
Good morning, and welcome back to the tale of privilege gone unchecked, aka the fall of Ellen Degeneres and her less-than-desirable apology. You’ve likely heard of the explosive allegations directed towards The Ellen Degeneres Show, notedly issues of racism, sexual harassment, and psychological abuse.
There were even talks of a James Corden replacement; however, as of now, Ellen has returned for season 18 of her show, with a less than desirable apology.
Here’s the tricky thing. Ellen is, more often than not, a likeable entertainer with a personality to match. However, every now and then, we’ve seen through a crack in her cheery exterior. Beneath this is an individual holding wealth and privilege, who feels entitled to treat others without empathy for entertainment purposes. Her televised humiliating of a fan who stole from her gift shop is just one of many instances…and we don’t even see the extent of what happens behind closed doors.
Anyway, Ellen has claimed in her season 18 introduction speech that “we’re starting a new chapter”. As much as we hope for this to be the case, unfortunately, her apology feels more like a PR manoeuvre, featuring a calculated script aimed at damage control. Littered throughout her dialogue is an assortment of jokes that don’t feel appropriate for a serious apology: “I am especially working on this impatience thing, it’s not going well, because it’s not happening fast enough”. Missing the point a little bit, Ellen.
ellen degeneres be like "im still learning & growing" u are 62 years old
— 😃 (@akira4ty) September 21, 2020
Still, season 18 could well be the turning point for positive change. Ellen has fired multiple accused staff members, which does demonstrate responsibility. However, only time will time if Ellen is just trying to smooth out a bump in her career or ultimately striving to become a more compassionate person. Have a look at the full apology below and decide for yourself.
Today we’re starting a new chapter. pic.twitter.com/PvpZXnXLv5
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) September 21, 2020
