TV Ratings Drop For 'Ellen'

Ratings for 'The Ellen DeGeneres Shiow" — which is facing ongoing allegations of a “toxic” workplace culture — slipped to a series low last month, snagging a 1.0 Live + Same Day household rating for the week ending July 26, according to The Wrap, which noted that it’s a 9% drop from the previous week and a steep -29% fall from the same period in summer 2019. However, it’s worth noting that other talk shows currently in summer reruns have also faced declines, including “Dr. Oz,” which dropped 22%, and “The Real” and “The Doctors,” which are both down 20%, reports The NYPost.

Since its premiere in 2003, the show has evolved into a cheery showcase for A-list guests, heartwarming stories, prizes for audience members and goofy dance moves by the host. But in recent months, DeGeneres, 62, has faced a public downfall with allegations about behind-the-scenes impropriety that contrast with her sweet on-camera demeanor and encouraging words to “be kind.”

Late last month, dozens of staffers accused top executives of sexual misconduct, harassment and assault against underlings, with some specifically calling out head writer and executive producer Kevin Leman for his behavior.

On July 30, DeGeneres responded to criticism in a memo to staff, saying she was “sorry” and that unspecified changes would take place. However, another of the show’s executive producers, longtime staffer Ed Glavin, was reportedly being shown the door.

“As we’ve grown exponentially, I’ve not been able to stay on top of everything and relied on others to do their jobs as they knew I’d want them done. Clearly some didn’t,” she said. “That will now change and I’m committed to ensuring this does not happen again.”

That came on the heels of reports that WarnerMedia and an independent firm would be interviewing current and former employees about allegations.