Ellen DeGeneres Expresses Desire to Return to Talk Show Hosting
Ellen DeGeneres, the beloved comedian and former talk show host, recently revealed her longing to return to the talk show circuit during a candid conversation with English broadcaster Richard Bacon. In a live discussion on July 20, 2025, DeGeneres, now 67, shared that she misses many aspects of her iconic show, “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” which aired from 2003 until its conclusion in 2022. However, she expressed uncertainty about whether the traditional talk show format would resonate with audiences today. “I mean, I wish it did, because I would do the same thing here. I would love to do that again, but I just feel like people are watching on their phones, or people aren’t really paying attention as much to televisions, because we’re so inundated with information and entertainment,” DeGeneres stated, as reported by BBC. This reflection highlights the evolving landscape of entertainment consumption, where streaming and social media have transformed how audiences engage with content. Despite her nostalgia for her talk show days, DeGeneres emphasized that she is approaching her next career move with caution. “I just don’t know what that is yet,” she admitted. “I want to have fun, I want to do something. I do like my chickens but I’m a little bit bored.” This sentiment resonates with many fans who have followed her journey from daytime television to her recent endeavors, including her final Netflix stand-up special. In her Netflix special, DeGeneres opened up about the challenges she faced during her time on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” including allegations of fostering a toxic workplace environment. She described the experience as “devastating,” but noted that she has moved past worrying about public opinion. “The truth is, I am that person that you see on TV. I am also a lot of other things. … I am a work in progress,” she shared during a monologue when her show returned in 2020. Reflecting on her departure from television, DeGeneres acknowledged the impact of the scandals that surrounded her show. Following an internal investigation into workplace behavior, she pledged to implement changes. “I will tell you that,” she remarked, indicating her commitment to personal growth and improvement. As DeGeneres contemplates her future, she remains optimistic about the possibilities ahead. “I want to do something that brings me joy,” she reiterated, hinting at her desire to explore new avenues in her career. While she may not have a concrete plan just yet, her fans are eager to see what the next chapter holds for this iconic figure in entertainment. In her stand-up special, DeGeneres also addressed the accusations of being “mean,” a label that has followed her throughout her career. “No matter what, any article that came up, it was like, ‘She’s mean,’ and it’s like, how do I deal with this without sounding like a victim or ‘poor me’ or complaining?” she reflected. Her candidness about the challenges of navigating public perception reveals a deeper understanding of the complexities of being a public figure. Moreover, DeGeneres challenged the societal expectations placed on women in the entertainment industry, stating, “How dare us have any kind of mood, or you can’t be anything other than nice and sweet and kind and submissive and complacent.” Her remarks resonate with many who have experienced similar pressures in their own lives, highlighting the importance of authenticity and self-acceptance. As fans look forward to what DeGeneres will do next, her journey serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability required in the entertainment industry. Whether she returns to television or embarks on a new adventure, one thing is clear: Ellen DeGeneres remains a beloved figure whose impact on comedy and television will not be forgotten. In conclusion, Ellen DeGeneres’s candid reflections on her career and future aspirations offer a glimpse into the mind of a talented entertainer navigating the complexities of fame. While she may be uncertain about her next steps, her passion for connecting with audiences and her commitment to personal growth will undoubtedly guide her in whatever direction she chooses to take. Fans can only hope that a return to the talk show format is in the cards, as her unique blend of humor and heart has always resonated with viewers across the globe.