Comedian Ellen DeGeneres has used the return episode of her daytime talk show to address allegations of bullying, racism, and sexual misconduct.
DeGeneres used the season 18 premiere of her program to deliver a 6-minute monologue in which she attempted to apologise for allowing the program to become a toxic workplace.
As part of the carefully worded apology, DeGeneres continued to imply she had been previously unaware of the allegations before they became public this year.
“I learned that things happened here that never should have happened,”
“I take that very seriously, and I want to say I am so sorry to the people who were affected. I know that I am in a position of privilege and power, and I realise that with that comes responsibility, and I take responsibility for what happens at my show.”
This year has seen numerous allegations made about the program regarding bullying, racism, and sexual misconduct among producers and staff. An investigation by WarnerMedia led to three executive producers being fired in August.
“We have made the necessary changes, and today we are starting a new chapter,”
The episode was the first time DeGeneres had been in the studio since the commencement of COVID crisis earlier this year and was filmed in front of a virtual audience.
“If I’ve ever let someone down, if I’ve ever hurt their feelings, I am so sorry for that,”
“If that’s ever the case, I have let myself down and I’ve hurt myself as well, because I always try to grow as a person.”
DeGeneres went on to send a public message the 270 employees that work for her production company,
“All I want is for every single one of them to be happy and to be proud to work here.”
“My hope is that we can still be a place of happiness and joy,”
Ellen went on to conclude her apology by saying,