Ellen DeGeneres, once the beloved queen of daytime television and an LGBTQ icon, attempted to stage a comeback. However, instead of regaining her former glory, her efforts backfired in the most spectacular way possible. From accusations of workplace toxicity to tone-deaf pandemic comments, Ellen’s attempt to reclaim her spot in the limelight only served as a stark reminder of why so many had turned their backs on her in the first place. The backlash has been swift, brutal, and unrelenting.

A Fall from Grace

Ellen’s troubles began in earnest around 2019 when allegations surfaced that behind her ever-smiling, friendly TV persona lay a toxic workplace environment. Reports from former staffers detailed instances of intimidation, favoritism, and even harassment on the set of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Employees described a culture of fear, with many claiming that Ellen herself was either complicit or willfully ignorant of the conditions behind the scenes.

The controversy only deepened in 2020 when Ellen made comments comparing her experience of being in lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic to being in prison. This statement did not sit well with frontline workers, particularly nurses, who were risking their lives every day while Ellen quarantined in her multimillion-dollar mansion.

One former nurse took to social media to express their outrage:

“I remember working as a frontline nurse during the COVID pandemic and hearing that she was whining about being in lockdown like it was in prison. I actually heard that while I was in a full hazmat suit, taking care of dying patients and afraid for my life while everyone else could sit home safe and sound. For no extra money either. And then getting COVID twice myself and being off for four weeks with no pay! Hearing her (and other celebrities) talk about their stress during the pandemic literally makes me sick.”

This sentiment was echoed by many others, with one user bluntly stating, “You couldn’t pay me to give a shit about Ellen!” The general public, particularly those who faced real hardships during the pandemic, found Ellen’s complaints out of touch and offensive.

Public Perception Has Changed—And Not in Ellen’s Favor

Ellen’s image as a kind and generous talk show host has been permanently tarnished. Many people now view her as just another entitled celebrity who only plays nice when the cameras are rolling. One commenter summed up the shift in sentiment:

“Sometimes the phony drops their disguise. Ellen dropped hers, and her downfall is well deserved.”

Another user pointed out her alleged greed and selfishness:

“This woman could have paid staff wages out of her petty cash, but she didn’t. It shows how money is all she cares about. Awful woman—I’m sorry to say I was one of the people who thought she was a wonderful person.”

Even longtime Hollywood skeptics weighed in, questioning why people idolize celebrities in the first place:

“I think people who put Hollywood folks on a pedestal are silly. We only know what they present, not who they are.”

A Failed Redemption Arc?

Ellen’s attempt to stage a comeback has not only failed but also reignited discussions about her past controversies. Many believe that her efforts to reclaim her career are insincere and that she simply wants to return to the spotlight without taking full accountability for the allegations against her.

Hollywood is known for comebacks, but in the court of public opinion, Ellen’s time may have passed. As one scathing comment put it:

“Celebs matter why? They make their own fancy participation trophies that we are all supposed to applaud.”

With the entertainment industry constantly evolving and a new generation of talent emerging, Ellen DeGeneres might have finally reached the point of no return. Whether she chooses to step away quietly or fight to restore her name, one thing is clear—America is no longer laughing along with her.