Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres is an American comedian, television host, and actress. DeGeneres began her career in stand-up comedy in the early 1980s. Later, she starred in her own sitcom, "Ellen," which made television history when her character came out as gay, paralleling DeGeneres' own coming out as a lesbian. Despite initial controversy, DeGeneres became a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation in the media. She later found immense success as the host of "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," which quickly became a daytime television phenomenon. She is also a notable advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and humanitarian causes, using her platform to promote kindness and acceptance.

Ellen started out as a comedian, and her stage-holding ability still makes her one of the most popular faces of the US entertainment industry.

• Ellen Lee DeGeneres was born on January 26, 1958, in Metairie, Louisiana, USA.
• Attended Grace King High School in Metairie.
• Graduated from the University of New Orleans with a major in communication studies.
• Started performing stand-up comedy in local clubs and coffee houses during her college years.
• Moved to New Orleans and later to New York City to pursue a career in comedy.
• Won Showtime's "Funniest Person in America" competition in 1982, marking a significant milestone in her comedy career.
• Came out publicly as a lesbian in 1997, both on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" and through her character on the sitcom "Ellen," making her a pioneering figure for LGBTQ+ representation in entertainment.

Ellen DeGeneres's focus has been primarily on her television career and philanthropic efforts, while she maintains a balanced public profile regarding her personal life and family details.

• Ellen DeGeneres married actress Portia de Rossi on August 16, 2008.
• Her father, Elliott DeGeneres, is an insurance agent, and her mother, Elizabeth Jane "Betty" Pfeffer, is a speech therapist.
• Ellen has one brother, Vance DeGeneres, who is also involved in entertainment as a producer, musician, and comedian.
• Known to own multiple properties, including homes in Los Angeles and Montecito, California.
• Ellen and Portia are known for their love of animals and have several pets, including dogs and cats.
• Actively involved in various charitable causes, including animal rights, disaster relief, and humanitarian efforts.