Ellen DeGeneres Considers Returning to Talk Show Hosting, Reflects on Past Allegations

Ellen DeGeneres is not ruling out the possibility of hosting another talk show, though she doubts the current format’s relevance in today’s media landscape. During a live interview with broadcaster Richard Bacon, the 67-year-old comedian expressed her longing for the experience of hosting her own show but admitted the format may not align with modern viewing habits. She noted that audiences are increasingly consuming content through mobile devices rather than traditional television, which may make the traditional talk show model less viable.

Since relocating to England in November 2024, DeGeneres has been contemplating her next career move, stating she is making the transition ‘very carefully.’ While she remains open to various possibilities, she emphasized her desire to ‘have fun’ and engage in something that brings her joy. DeGeneres mentioned that while she enjoys her chickens, she admitted to feeling a bit ‘bored’ with her current routine, hinting at a potential shift in her professional trajectory.

DeGeneres’ 19-season talk show, which aired from 2003 to 2022, concluded in 2020 following allegations of a toxic work environment. Despite the controversy, she addressed the criticisms during the opening monologue of her 18th season, offering an on-air apology and acknowledging her ‘direct’ and ‘blunt’ nature. She expressed frustration with the persistent rumors that she is ‘mean,’ stating that she ‘hate[s] that people think that,’ and noted that even if she were to address the issue directly, it could not ‘get rid of’ the perception.

The comedian reflected on the end of her talk show as ‘certainly an unpleasant way’ to conclude her career in the medium. She also shared that her decision to move to England was influenced by President Donald Trump’s election victory. She and her wife, Portia de Rossi, had originally planned to split their time between the UK and the United States, but their plans changed after the election. DeGeneres recalled waking up to the news of the election result and deciding to remain in England, stating, ‘We’re staying here.’ She described the UK as a place where ‘everything here is just better,’ citing the beauty of the city, the care for animals, and the ‘simpler way of life.’ She also noted that they had sheep for about two weeks, adding a personal touch to her relocation story.