Ellen DeGeneres has addressed the “mean girl” allegations that plagued her talk show, ultimately leading to its end.
In a recent stand-up performance in Santa Rosa, California, the comedian tackled the controversy head-on.
Speaking to a nearly full audience, DeGeneres said, “I am many things, but I am not mean.” Defending herself, she added, “I can be demanding, impatient, and tough. I am a strong woman.”
DeGeneres ended her talk show in 2022 amid accusations from former staffers about a toxic workplace environment. She shared with the audience that the scandal forced her to confront and dismantle some of her personal barriers.
In her latest stand-up gigs, DeGeneres has been more candid about the impact of the controversy. During a performance last month, she spoke about the toll the negative publicity took on her self-esteem, revealing that she had avoided news coverage that portrayed her in a negative light.
