WarnerMedia actions Ellen investigation
Media giant to look into allegations around toxic workplace culture at Ellen's talk show.
- Published by David Knox
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An investigation into alleged workplace misconduct on The Ellen DeGeneres Show is underway in the US.
Various allegations around the production have swirled for some time (and been republished incessantly) but WarnerMedia has now actioned an investigation.
Buzzfeed has previously detailed employee accusations of racism, unjust termination, inappropriate comments, retribution for bringing up concerns about problematic language, pushback for time off to attend funerals or medical leave and a “culture of fear” …all of which contradicts the genial presentation of the show.
“That ‘be kind’ bullshit only happens when the cameras are on. It’s all for show,” one former employee told BuzzFeed News. “I know they give money to people and help them out, but it’s for show.”
Executive producers Ed Glavin, Mary Connelly and Andy Lassner have previously said, “Over the course of nearly two decades, 3,000 episodes, and employing over 1000 staff members, we have strived to create an open, safe, and inclusive work environment.
“We are truly heartbroken and sorry to learn that even one person in our production family has had a negative experience. It’s not who we are and not who we strive to be, and not the mission Ellen has set for us.”
They added, “For the record, the day to day responsibility of the Ellen show is completely on us. We take all of this very seriously and we realize, as many in the world are learning, that we need to do better, are committed to do better, and we will do better.”
Source: Hollywood Reporter
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4 Responses
The irony of the show’s famous catchphrase “Be kind to one another”. From on-screen, it was not only Dakota Johnson interview, but also the prison joke backlash. To be fair, some of the criticism of Ellen might have been unwarranted or politically motivated, such as the George W. Bush friendship criticism.
I think the criticism of her friendship with George W is warranted.
I’m not sure. I know Michelle Obama is also friends with George W. Bush and has also spoken favourably of him.
I don’t think any workplace does not suffer from issues that have surfaced from within the Ellen show in some form or another. The added pressure of creating a show that appears to be sugar and spice will take its toll no matter what. Nothing Ellen does on this series like many others comes out of her pocket, everything is “promoted”, nothing is “real” no matter what the intention. I suppose if social media was more prominent look what may have come out behind the scenes of Oprah. WarnerMedia would be fully aware of issues from within if not first hand or at least the rumor mill that would engulf any studio. You just need to look at the recent issues with Will & Grace to see what impact this can have on a series due to production “bullying” or the recent Rise of the Murdoch Dynasty to see what is hidden from view or manipulated.