Daytime talk show host Ellen DeGeneres has received a recent string of accusations that she is not so kind to those behind the scenes of her hit show.
In an exclusive report with US Weekly, a source informed that at first the host “thought this was all just sour grapes from a few haters. But it’s not a passing thing — the hits just keep coming” The source also claims that DeGeneres is at “the end of her rope.”
Speculations begin after YouTuber, Nikkie de Jager (aka NikkieTutorials) described DeGeneres, 62, as “cold and distant.” The YouTuber appeared as a guest on the show in January and discussed her unpleasant interactions. That same month, the host received criticism for joking on-air that quarantining in her $27 million mansion was “like being in jail.”
According to Fox News, DeGeneres also left her staff in the dark by failing to communicate the status of their jobs and pay amid the coronavirus pandemic. A rep on her behalf did not immediately return Fox News’ request for comment.
Adding insult to injury, bodyguard, Tom Majercak, supported accusations of the comedian’s rude behavior. In an interview with Fox News, he branded the host as “sly” and “demeaning” after protecting her for the 2014 Oscars. According to brand expert Eric Schiffer, the recent reports of her rude behavior is “like rat poison” to her brand.
DeGeneres is known for her “happy-to-give-to-others” ways and celebrity friendships. But regardless of her attempts to save face, Schiffer believes her ratings may suffer, especially since she has failed to issue a public apology. As for now, US Weekly reports her ratings continue to soar, which indicates that the backlash has not affected her show.
The Emmy winner has leaned on wife, Portia de Rossi, and trusted pals. “Ellen’s so grateful to have Portia in her life as a soulmate and a sounding board, but that doesn’t mean it’s been easy,” a second source tells Us. “Their home life is strained right now. … Her real friends never ask her to be funny or tell jokes. They accept her as is.” The source believes it will take more than a bodyguard and blogger to change how people feel about her.
As Ellen says before ending every show, “Be Kind to One Another.”
