The Ellen DeGeneres Show
Ellen brings humor and positive messages to daytime.
Parents say
Based on 7 reviews
Kids say
Based on 23 reviews
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this daytime talk show, hosted by Ellen DeGeneres, varies widely in content and some segments might be completely appropriate for young viewers, while others could introduce subjects kids aren't ready for. The show features lots of celebrity interviews, endless promotional devices, and wacky audience participation segments, plus lots of positive messages about helping others in need, and loving and respecting one another. Some celebrity interviews address themes like divorce, addiction, and other mature themes. Bullying and other strong issues are discussed, but within the context of raising awareness and stopping negative behaviors. While the host is open about her sexual orientation, it is not a major theme in the show. Occasionally wine, cigarettes, and blurred nudity are visible or discussed as part of gags.
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What's the Story?
THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW is a daytime talk show series featuring comedian Ellen DeGeneres as she entertains audiences with her quirky brand of humor, her positive spirit, and her passion for dancing. Each episode features Ellen interviewing various celebrities like actor Brad Pitt, singers like Britney Spears, and community leaders like First Lady Michelle Obama. Adding to the fray are segments about ordinary people doing extraordinary things, and various games that require audience participation. In-between events, she and the audience dance to the music played by D.J. Tony Okungbowa.
Is It Any Good?
The upbeat series features all the elements of a typical talk show, including A-list guests and endless promotional devices for products and services offered by its many sponsors. But Ellen's humor and engaging personality also makes the show feel relaxed and informal, even if some of the issues she and her guests are discussing have the potential of being controversial.
Ellen is open about her sexual orientation on the show, but issues pertaining to gay community are contextualized as issues that relate to all people. Meanwhile, her efforts to raise awareness about bullying, breast cancer, and other issues, and to solicit donations for a range of charitable organizations, add to the positive nature of the show. Ultimately, it's a show that attempts to offer an entertaining and optimistic viewing experience.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about talk shows. 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 it appropriate to use them as a platform to promote causes and/or organizations, too? How does a show like this one address serious issues, like bullying without making viewers feel uncomfortable?
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?
TV Details
- Premiere date: September 8, 2003
- Cast: Ellen DeGeneres, Tony Okungbowa
- Networks: NBC, Syndicated
- Genre: Variety Show
- Topics: Great Girl Role Models
- Character Strengths: Compassion, Integrity
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: February 25, 2022
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