As weeks grew into months since the pandemic first hit the United States, 2020 couldn’t seem to have gotten any more chaotic; that is, until a public figure who was presumed one of the most generous women in Hollywood was exposed for a toxic work environment and racism towards staff.
With over 200 million followers on all social media platforms combined, the once beloved Ellen Degeneres, known for her role as a host on the Ellen Degeneres Show, has been under fire for the past few months because of these allegations. The catastrophic media rampage stemmed from a Buzzfeed Article published July 16, which featured the jaw-dropping “confessions” of former Ellen Show Employees.
One of the revelations detailed Ellen’s facade when it came to being a charitable person on screen and off screen. “That ‘be kind’ bull**** only happens when the cameras are on. It’s all for show,” an anonymous ex-worker stated. “I know they give money to people and help them out, but it’s for show.”
Another employee of African American descent claimed that racism was a common issue in the workplace, and one that was never addressed by producers and writers. She mentioned the lack of respect writers had for her ideas, and eventually, after finding out another worker was being given a higher salary doing the same job, she had reached her boiling point, and decided to notify the manager. According to the source, she never received a response.
Recently, Degeneres had come out with an apology on behalf of her and her head management, stating that she does take accountability. However, she feels her past actions do not define the person she is today, but rather, are mistakes she can learn and grow from.
It came as a shock to many that a celebrity as well known and liked as Ellen would have a not-so-kind side. With many movements, demands for equality and tension build-ups in this nation, many Hollywood stars are getting called out for their past actions, leaving an imprint on social media, and in this case, people’s livelihoods. Oftentimes, what may seem like great television really is just great television; nevertheless, that doesn’t excuse the alleged distasteful behaviors of Ellen and her management.
