In her Netflix special “For Your Approval,” Ellen DeGeneres returned to the spotlight for the first time since her daytime talk show ended in 2022. The special, which was taped earlier this year, opened with DeGeneres confronting negative headlines following her 2020 workplace scandal, in which her show was accused of creating a toxic environment. In the introduction, DeGeneres reflected on what it felt like to be “fired from the entertainment industry” and addressed the backlash that tarnished her public image.
Taylor Swift ‘copycat’ accusations
However, the special quickly sparked controversy online. The opening, which featured a series of negative headlines and social media posts criticizing DeGeneres, drew comparisons to the opening of pop star Taylor Swift’s 2018 Reputation Tour, also highlighting negative media coverage. X (formerly Twitter) users pointed out the similarities, with a post about the similarities racking up more than 12 million views.
One X user said the intro was “ridiculous,” while another commented, “This is a copy of the Reputation tour intro.” Another quipped, “Reputation (Ellen’s Version),” a reference to Swift’s popular album re-release project.
insert creepy meme i’m too lazy to search
— Stephen Ford (@StephenSeanFord) September 24, 2024
Fans defend DeGeneres amid criticism
Despite the copycat accusations, DeGeneres still receives support from fans.
Several viewers have spoken out about X, defending her against the backlash. One fan praised her for being candid on the special, saying, “Talking about her struggles really helps people.”
Ellen’s special made me feel so many emotions 🥹
Cancel culture sucks, and we saw what it did to Taylor 💔
Talking about her struggles would really help people ❤️ her talking about OCD is something I can really relate to so thank you @EllenDeGeneres ❤️
— Joe | eras philly & ldn 💜 (@joewilliams_cal) September 25, 2024
@EllenDeGeneres I will remember you as loved-loved-loved-loved… for being loved. Thank you. I am grateful. I am blessed. I love you.
— Jasonhausen 🎃🎃 (@PositivelyJC) September 25, 2024
DeGeneres on Cancel Culture and Moving Forward
During the special, DeGeneres directly addressed the challenges of cancel culture. While she insisted her talk show did not end because of negative press, she admitted that the show had taken an emotional toll on her, while still displaying the irreverent humor that made her famous.
“I’m here because I love stand-up comedy, I miss it, I love making people happy, and I care about what people think,” she shared with the audience.
This article originally appeared on Enstarz.
Tags Ellen DeGeneres, Taylor Swift