Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Ellen brings humor and positive messages to daytime.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Ellen DeGeneres Show
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 7 parent reviews
Based on 22 kid reviews
Kids say that the show is a hilarious and positive daytime talk experience that incorporates generosity and kindness while featuring a variety of guests. However, some reviews express concerns about adult humor and political bias, suggesting that parents should be mindful of the content and its appropriateness for younger viewers.
- positive messages
- adult humor
- parental supervision
- entertaining variety
- role model
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW is a daytime talk show series hosted by comedian Ellen DeGeneres, who entertains audiences with her quirky brand of humor, her positive spirit, and her passion for dancing. Each episode features Ellen interviewing various celebrities, including actors like Brad Pitt, singers like Britney Spears, and community leaders like First Lady Michelle Obama. Other segments feature ordinary people doing extraordinary things, and there are various games that require audience participation. In between events, Ellen and the audience dance to the music played by DJs.
Is It Any Good?
This upbeat series has all the elements of a typical talk show, including A-list guests and endless promotions for the products and services offered by its many sponsors. But Ellen's humor and engaging personality also make the show feel relaxed and informal, even if some of the issues she and her guests discuss—such as bullying, domestic violence, sexual assault, smoking, etc.—have the potential to be controversial.
Ellen is open about her sexual orientation on the show, often mentioning her wife (though discussions about queer issues tend to feel oversimplified). Still, Ellen's efforts to raise awareness about bullying, breast cancer, etc.—and to solicit donations for a range of charitable organizations—add to the show's positive nature. Complaints about toxic workplace conditions have marred the show's legacy, but it tried to offer an entertaining and optimistic viewing experience during its time on the air.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about talk shows like The Ellen DeGeneres Show. What makes a talk show successful? Is it the host? The guests? The quirky segments?
Did you know that talk shows are designed primarily to promote celebrities and/or products? Is that an appropriate use of media entertainment? Why, or why not?
How does Ellen address serious issues, like bullying, without making viewers feel uncomfortable? Is the show thought-provoking or simply entertaining?
What do you know about Ellen DeGeneres? Do you consider her a role model? Do you consider her sexual orientation when you decide whether or not she's a role model? And do you consider the controversies around her show's toxic work environment when deciding whether she's a role model?
What are some of your favorite interviews on the show? What makes them worth revisiting?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 8, 2003
- Cast : Ellen DeGeneres , Tony Okungbowa
- Networks : NBC , Syndicated
- Genre : Variety Show
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Integrity
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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