Ellen DeGeneres Reflects on Career Exit in New Stand-Up Special: 'I Was Kicked Out'

2025-07-31
Ellen DeGeneres Reflects on Career Exit in New Stand-Up Special: 'I Was Kicked Out'
The Independent

Ellen DeGeneres is back on stage, and she's not holding back. A new trailer has dropped for her upcoming Netflix stand-up special, Relatable, and it promises a candid look at her life and career – including her surprising departure from daytime television.

In the trailer, DeGeneres directly addresses the perception that she was “kicked out of show business,” a sentiment that gained traction following the abrupt cancellation of The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2022. The cancellation came after years of controversy surrounding the show's workplace environment, with numerous allegations of a toxic atmosphere and bullying.

“They say why did you leave? I said I was kicked out,” DeGeneres quips in the trailer, delivering her signature brand of self-deprecating humour. The teaser then cuts to snippets of her performance, showcasing her observational comedy and witty commentary on everyday life, relationships, and aging. While the trailer doesn’t delve into the specifics of the controversies that plagued her show, it heavily implies that she will be tackling the subject with honesty and comedic insight.

The Ellen DeGeneres Show, which ran for 19 seasons, was once a daytime television powerhouse, known for its celebrity interviews, elaborate dance sequences, and generous giveaways. However, the show’s reputation took a significant hit in 2020 when former employees came forward with allegations of discrimination, harassment, and a generally toxic work environment. These accusations led to investigations and a decline in viewership, ultimately contributing to the show's cancellation.

DeGeneres has largely remained out of the public eye since the show’s end, though she has occasionally made appearances and spoken about the experience. This Netflix special marks a significant return to the spotlight, offering her a platform to address the past and showcase her comedic talent once again. The trailer suggests a show that's both introspective and hilarious, blending personal reflection with her trademark observational humour.

Relatable arrives on Netflix on February 29th, and it's poised to be a highly anticipated event. Will DeGeneres be able to win back some of the audience she lost? Or will the ghosts of her past continue to haunt her career? Only time will tell.

Watch the trailer here: [Insert Trailer Link Here - Placeholder]

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