They say all “good things must come to an end”, and that includes Daytime talk show Ellen, hosted by Ellen Degeneres. Since the show began in 2003, Ellen has gained a huge following for the show’s witty and creative take on lifestyle, entertainment, and current events.
Just recently, Ellen celebrated its 3,000th episode, so it was a drastic change of pace when Degeneres announced that the 19th season of the show would be her last. Degeneres is not the first talk show host to leave her namesake programming, others have gone before her such as Oprah Winfrey and David Letterman. The biggest difference however is that Ellen has stood as a source of inspiration for different groups of people especially the LGBTQ community.
Watch the 3000th Episode Milestone Monologue
Watch the Greatest Moments on Ellen from 3000 Episodes
Why stop after 19 seasons?
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Degeneres expressed how she was no longer being challenged with her daytime show.
“When you’re a creative person, you constantly need to be challenged – and as great as this show is, and as fun, as it is, it’s just not a challenge anymore. I need something new to challenge me” she said.
Ellen Announces Season 19 will be her last
In 2020, allegations were made against the show, citing instances that point to a toxic work environment such as racism, sexual harassment, and abuse of power from the show’s management. Three producers were let go in the process: executive producer Ed Glavin, co-executive producer Jonathan Norman, and head writer Kevin Leman. Degeneres made a public apology on her show but has made it clear, however, that despite being heartbroken regarding the matter, this was not the reason for her exit.
Ellen Degeneres Makes a Public Apology During Her Opening Monologue
She further explained that this was a decision that she had made back in 2019 when the show was renewed for 3 more seasons. It’s clear that she has always been adamant and clear to stop after 19 seasons. Comedy is at the core of Degeneres’ heart and she couldn’t contain herself to deliver humorous references related to the number 19.
What to Expect for the Last Season?
The show has become a phenomenon, so how do you conclude such an amazing run? Degeneres has an amazing Season 19 in store for fans which serves as a thank you letter for everyone’s continuous support. Furthermore, she has stated that each episode of the last season will be a celebration as we all look back at the best of Ellen and look forward to the bright future in store for Degeneres.
As Ellen, the talk show ends, Degeneres assures that her career isn’t over yet, and we completely agree with that. Looking ahead, Degeneres is already thinking of diving back into films or sitcoms — a true testament to her passion and creativity. In one of her more recent episodes, Ellen invited Oprah Winfrey who served as her guest and also took time to interview the host. Having these two powerhouses gave us goosebumps all over and served as a reminder that indeed when one door closes many more opportunities are just waiting around the corner. For fans of the show watch the last season of Ellen for a huge dose of nostalgia and an out-pouring of different emotions. Be sure to get that box of tissue ready just in case.
Check out Ellen’s interview with Oprah Winfrey
