The comedian, best known for her groundbreaking role on the ‘90s sitcom Ellen, really made a name for herself during that era. After the show’s success, she went on to host the widely popular daytime talk show The Ellen DeGeneres Show, which became a cultural phenomenon over the years. Ellen has also built an impressive film resume, appearing in movies like Mr. Wrong, EDtv, and The Love Letter. But one of her most beloved contributions to entertainment is her voice work—she brings the forgetful yet endearing Dory to life in both Finding Nemo and its sequel, Finding Dory, performances that have resonated with audiences of all ages.
Before all the fame and spotlight, Ellen had a much more down-to-earth lifestyle. She worked a variety of jobs just to get by, including being a bartender, a house painter, and even a waitress at TGI Friday’s—a far cry from the glamorous stages she’d later command. In her personal life, Ellen was in a high-profile relationship with actress Anne Heche from 1997 to 2000, followed by a relationship with Alexandra Hedison from 2001 to 2004. Eventually, she found lasting love with Portia de Rossi, whom she married on August 16, 2008, marking a joyful milestone in Ellen’s journey. Throughout it all, Ellen has remained a trailblazer, using her platform to inspire and connect with people around the world.
Back in 1996, she came out with a live comedy album titled Ellen DeGeneres: Taste This, which really showcased her unique humor and stage presence. Ellen DeGeneres brought her signature wit to the project, and fans loved how authentic and engaging she was throughout the performance. It was a solid moment in her career, proving once again that Ellen DeGeneres had a real gift for connecting with audiences through laughter. Ellen DeGeneres truly made her mark with that release.