In the new trailer for her upcoming Netflix special “For Your Approval,” Ellen DeGeneres offers a tantalizing preview of what promises to be a hilarious and introspective farewell to her illustrious stand-up career. The clip opens with DeGeneres addressing the audience, quipping, “Let me catch you up on what’s been going on with me since you saw me last.” She then proceeds to share her recent foray into gardening and chicken-rearing, before delivering the bombshell: “Oh yeah, I got kicked out of show business.”
Addressing the Controversy Head-On
DeGeneres’ departure from her long-running talk show, “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” was marred by allegations of a toxic workplace culture, a controversy she confronts head-on in the trailer. “The ‘be kind’ girl wasn’t kind, that was the headline,” she acknowledges, before offering her trademark wit as a counterpoint: “Here’s the problem: I’m a comedian who got a talk show and I ended the show every day by saying ‘Be kind to one another.’ Had I ended my show by saying ‘Go f**k yourselves,’ people would’ve been pleasantly surprised to find out I’m kind.”
Exploring Women’s Confidence and Self-Perception
In addition to addressing the controversy, DeGeneres also touches on broader societal themes, particularly women’s confidence and self-perception. “Most women aren’t raised with confidence,” she observes. “We’re too self-conscious, which is why you rarely see a woman playing air guitar.” This candid observation speaks to the deep-rooted societal pressures and expectations that many women face, and DeGeneres’ willingness to tackle such issues head-on promises to make for a thought-provoking and relatable comedic experience.
Healing Through Laughter
Perhaps the most poignant moment in the trailer comes when DeGeneres reflects on her motivations for entering the entertainment industry. “It was about healing my childhood wounds,” she confesses. “I thought, if I can make people happy, then they’ll like me, and if they like me, I’ll feel good about myself. And all I can say about that is, thank god for the money.” This vulnerability and self-awareness, coupled with her trademark humor, underscores DeGeneres’ ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.
“For Your Approval” marks a full-circle moment for DeGeneres, as she returns to her stand-up roots after nearly two decades at the helm of her wildly successful talk show. Directed by Joel Gallen and produced by Ben Winston and Fulwell 73 Productions, alongside DeGeneres and her wife, Portia de Rossi, the special promises to be a fitting capstone to a career that has spanned decades and touched millions of lives.
The Legacy of “The Ellen DeGeneres Show”
Before delving into the details of DeGeneres’ upcoming special, it’s worth reflecting on the incredible impact and legacy of “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.” Spanning 19 seasons and garnering a staggering 64 Daytime Emmy Awards, including 12 for Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show (a record in that category), the show cemented DeGeneres’ status as a cultural icon and beloved entertainer.
Beyond her on-screen accomplishments, DeGeneres’ impact extends far beyond the realm of entertainment. As one of the first openly gay celebrities to achieve mainstream success, she paved the way for greater LGBTQ+ representation and inclusion in the media. Her courage and authenticity in embracing her identity have inspired countless individuals to live their truths unapologetically.
Throughout her career, DeGeneres has been a vocal advocate for kindness and compassion, using her platform to promote positivity and empathy. Her signature sign-off, “Be kind to one another,” became a rallying cry for millions of viewers, reminding us all of the transformative power of simple acts of kindness.
A Multi-Faceted Entertainer
While best known for her talk show and stand-up comedy, DeGeneres’ talents extend far beyond the stage and screen. She has lent her voice to beloved animated films like “Finding Nemo” and “Finding Dory,” hosted numerous award shows with her signature charm and wit, and even dabbled in producing and writing. Her versatility and range as an entertainer have made her a true Renaissance woman in the industry.
The Road to “For Your Approval”
In the wake of her talk show’s conclusion, DeGeneres embarked on a multi-city stand-up tour, kicking off in San Diego in June 2022. The tour, dubbed “Ellen’s Last Stand… Up,” was initially slated to span 27 stops across the United States, but encountered a hiccup in July when several shows in Dallas, San Francisco, Seattle, and Chicago were unexpectedly canceled by Ticketmaster.
Despite the setback, DeGeneres remained undeterred, and during one of her summer tour stops, she hinted at the finality of her comedic endeavors, reportedly stating, “This is the last time you’re going to see me. After my Netflix special, I’m done.”
With “For Your Approval,” DeGeneres promises to delve deep into her stand-up roots, bringing laughter and insight to life’s most absurd and relatable realities. According to the special’s description, audiences can expect DeGeneres to tackle a wide range of topics with her trademark wit and candor, making for a truly unforgettable comedic experience.
More than just a stand-up special, “For Your Approval” represents a celebration of DeGeneres’ resilience, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to her craft. Throughout her storied career, she has faced numerous challenges and controversies, but has emerged time and again as a beacon of hope, laughter, and positivity.
At its core, DeGeneres’ comedic journey has been about using laughter as a powerful force for healing and connection. Whether addressing societal issues, personal struggles, or the everyday absurdities of life, her ability to find humor in even the darkest moments has been a source of solace and inspiration for millions.
A Lasting Legacy of Joy and Empathy
As DeGeneres prepares to bid farewell to the stand-up stage, her legacy as a trailblazer, entertainer, and advocate for kindness and empathy will endure. “For Your Approval” promises to be a fitting farewell to a career that has brought joy, laughter, and a deeper understanding of the human experience to audiences around the world.
In the end, DeGeneres’ impact extends far beyond the realm of comedy. She has challenged societal norms, championed inclusion and representation, and reminded us all of the transformative power of empathy and compassion. As she takes her final bow, her enduring message of kindness and her unwavering commitment to authenticity will continue to inspire generations to come.
