Biography
Who is Ellen DeGeneres?
Early life and real name
Ellen Lee DeGeneres was born in Metairie, Louisiana, on January 26, 1958. Her parents were Elizabeth Jane Pfeffer, a speech therapist, and Elliott Everett DeGeneres, an insurance agent. She grew up alongside her brother, Vance DeGeneres, who pursued a career as a musician and producer.
After her parents separated, she moved with her mother to Atlanta, Texas. She attended high schools including Grace King High School and Bishop Manogue High School, eventually graduating from Atlanta High School in May 1976. She later attended the University of New Orleans to study communication studies before leaving school to work various jobs.
How Ellen became famous
Ellen DeGeneres began her career performing stand-up comedy in small clubs and coffee houses during the early 1980s. She gained national attention following a 1986 appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Her style of observational humor quickly resonated with audiences across the United States.
In 1994, she starred in the television sitcom Ellen, which achieved big popularity. In April 1997, she publicly came out as a lesbian on the cover of Time magazine and through her character on the show, making television history with a milestone episode.
Career highlights
Ellen DeGeneres launched her syndicated daytime talk show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, in September 2003. The program achieved big critical praise and earned dozens of Daytime Emmy Awards over its long run before concluding in 2021 following workplace allegations and her subsequent retirement from show business in 2024.
In addition to her television work, she voiced the character Dory in the animated Disney and Pixar film Finding Nemo in 2003 and returned for its sequel, Finding Dory, in 2016. Her performance in the first film earned her a Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Family and personal life
Ellen DeGeneres married actress Portia de Rossi. Her previous relationships included partnerships with Anne Heche and Alexandra Hedison. She has also authored four books and launched lifestyle brands alongside her entertainment career.
Standing at a height of 171 centimeters, she has been recognized with numerous accolades throughout her career, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016 and multiple People's Choice Awards.
Birthday and age
Ellen DeGeneres was born on January 26, 1958, which makes Ellen 68 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aquarius sign. Ellen shares the date with 68 other famous people.
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