Ellen DeGeneres Returns to Stand-Up - Fama

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Ellen DeGeneres, the beloved comedian and former talk show host, made a triumphant return to the stage for a three-night stand-up show in Santa Rosa last week. On Monday, July 1, the 66-year-old entertainer performed at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts, marking her "Ellen’s Last Stand Up" tour.

This tour aimed to update her fans on her life two years after the cancellation of her iconic talk show. According to SFGate, DeGeneres did not hold back when discussing her departure from the limelight.

"Let me catch you up on what’s been going on with me since you last saw me,"

DeGeneres began, sharing personal anecdotes and humor. "I got chickens. Oh yeah, and I got kicked out of show business for being mean." Her candid approach to discussing her exit from the spotlight was both refreshing and humorous.

DeGeneres opened up about the impact of the drastic change, especially after her talk show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," which ran for an impressive 19 seasons. She acknowledged a newfound sensitivity, admitting, "I used to say, ‘I don’t care what people say about me.’ Now I realize I said that during the height of my popularity."

Balancing Humor and Seriousness

While maintaining her signature humor, DeGeneres did not shy away from addressing serious topics. She joked, "Next time, I’ll be kicked out for being old. Old, gay and mean, the triple crown."

This lighthearted comment resonated with the audience, showing her ability to find humor even in difficult situations.

DeGeneres also delved into the origins of the accusations against her. "I can be demanding and impatient and tough," she explained. "I am a strong woman. I am many things, but I am not mean." She emphasized that her intentions were never to be mean, even if her actions were sometimes perceived that way.

Looking Forward: DeGeneres' Future in Showbiz

When asked if she would consider returning to the spotlight after reflecting on her past mistakes, DeGeneres gave a firm "no."

She stated, "This is the last time you’re going to see me. After my Netflix special, I’m done." Her decision seemed final, indicating a desire to move on from her public persona.

In July 2020, a BuzzFeed News report revealed allegations from anonymous former and current staffers about a toxic work environment on her show. These claims included penalization for taking medical leave, racial microaggressions, and fear of retribution for raising complaints.

The Burden of Public Scrutiny

DeGeneres admitted that the negative headlines affected her deeply. "The hate went on for a long time and I would try to avoid looking at the news," she shared during an April stand-up show in Los Angeles. She also acknowledged the disparity between her public image and private actions, noting, "The 'be kind' girl wasn't kind. That was the headline."

Despite the criticisms, DeGeneres reflected on her show's legacy, where she ended each day on set by saying, “Be kind to one another.” She humorously noted that this led to her being perceived as a "one-dimensional character who gave stuff away and danced up steps."

Recently, DeGeneres canceled four upcoming show dates just one month after kicking off her stand-up tour. Ticketmaster provided no details for the cancellations, leaving fans curious about her future plans.