Ellen DeGeneres announces final Netflix special amid show business exit

Ellen DeGeneres is preparing to release her final stand-up comedy special, 'For Your Approval,' on Netflix, scheduled for September 24, 2024. This special marks a significant moment in her career as it addresses the fallout from her popular daytime talk show, 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show,' which ended in 2022. The show faced a decline in viewership and criticism following a 2020 report detailing allegations of a toxic workplace environment, which impacted her reputation and career trajectory. In the trailer for the special, DeGeneres humorously reflects on her life post-show, mentioning activities like gardening and raising chickens, while also joking about being 'kicked out of show business.' This self-deprecating humor highlights her acknowledgment of the controversies that have surrounded her, particularly the backlash she faced after the allegations of mistreatment of staff. DeGeneres has expressed that her intention in entering show business was to bring joy to others, not to accumulate wealth, although she humorously acknowledges the financial benefits she has received. Her recent tour, 'Ellen’s Last Stand… Up,' has also been framed as a farewell to her fans, reinforcing her commitment to stepping away from the spotlight. As she prepares for this final performance, DeGeneres's career serves as a reflection of the complexities of fame, the impact of public perception, and the challenges faced by those in the entertainment industry. Her decision to exit the public eye marks the end of an era for a comedian who has significantly influenced daytime television.