Telepictures, the company which produces the “Ellen Show”, has addressed the rumors that have been circulating online that the popular program will be cancelled as ratings drop and controversies over its host continue.
The cultural impact and significance of “Ellen” need not be explained. First launched in 2003, the show has invited virtually all the big names from Hollywood, Washington and from around the world on various issues.
One of the greatest appeals of the show was its positive and lighthearted vibe. DeGeneres always had a big smile on her face, and kicked the show off with little dances. The guests, even political figures like the Obamas, would often indulge in much lighter topics.
However, a recent string of controversies have negatively affected the show, especially because so much of the appeal originated from the jovial atmosphere of the show. What was particularly damaging to the host and thus the show’s image was a Twitter thread.
Back in March, a Twitter thread that was started by comedian Kevin Porter went viral, where many people shared stories of DeGeneres behind the scenes which completely contradicted her public persona.
For instance, despite her show supposedly promoting inclusiveness and friendliness to everyone, one user shared how the host would randomly pick one of her crew to bully for a day. The user said that what she disregarded as malicious rumor turned out to be true.
Other stories, such as DeGeneres and her wife being rude and an overall diva backstage during an award ceremony, only exacerbated criticisms of a double standard for a host who ends every one of her shows by urging viewers to be kind.
Another recent event that worsened her public image was the controversy over the staff who produced the show as “Ellen” moved to a virtual platform because of the global pandemic.
From rumors that she deliberately refused to contact crew members who are part of the union to a lack of transparent communication over job expectations, the debacle harmed DeGeneres who openly expressed pro-labor, pro-union stances before.
We will keep our eyes on this story if there are any changes, but as of now, “Ellen” is poised to continue. Share with us your thoughts on this story, and be sure to follow us on Facebook for more stories like this one.
Replaced!