Ellen DeGeneres tests positive for Covid-19: ‘Please stay healthy and safe’
The talk show host made an announcement on social media on Thursday.
By Will Stroude
Ellen DeGeneres has tested positive for Covid-19.
The talk show host, 62, announced in a message on social media on Thursday (10 December) that she is following US government guidelines around isolation and is “feeling fine right now”.
“Hi Everyone, I want to let you all know that I tested positive for Covid-19”, DeGeneres said in a statement.
“Fortunately, I’m feeling fine right now. Anyone who has been in close contact with me has been notified, and I am following all proper CDC guidelines.
“I’ll see you all again after the holidays. Please stay healthy and safe. Love, Ellen”.
The news comes in a difficult year for DeGeneres, who was forced to issue an on-air apology during the season 18 premiere of The Ellen DeGeneres Show following allegations of a “toxic” workplace environment.
In July, a number of former employees came forward to claim they were bullied and sexually harassed while working on the hit daytime series.
A Buzzfeed report shared the experiences of workers who described a “toxic” environment marred by intimidation and racism.
Others made accusations of harassment and sexual misconduct against specific producers, which have been denied by the individuals in question.
Addressing the claims on her show in September, DeGeneres explained that an investigation into the allegations had taken place, saying: “I learned things happened here that never should have happened.
“I take that very seriously and I want to say I am so sorry to the people who were affected. I know I’m in a position of privilege and power and I realise with that comes responsibility.
“And I take responsibility for what happens at my show.”