Margaret Cho Says Ellen DeGeneres Was ‘Not Nice’ to Her for ‘Most’ of Her Career and Acted ‘Like a Mean Girl’
In a candid discussion on *The Kelly Mantle Show*, acclaimed comedian Margaret Cho shed light on her challenging experiences with Ellen DeGeneres throughout her career. Cho did not hold back, describing DeGeneres as “not nice” for most of their interactions and likening her behavior to that of a “mean girl.” This revelation opens up a dialogue about the complex and often hidden dynamics in the entertainment industry.
Early Encounters: A Tense Professional Relationship
Margaret Cho’s experiences with Ellen DeGeneres date back to the late 1980s when she served as an opening act for DeGeneres in various comedy clubs. During this period, Cho was still honing her craft and seeking opportunities to establish her presence in the comedy world. Unfortunately, the camaraderie she expected did not materialize as she recalled feeling dismissed and unappreciated by DeGeneres. According to Cho, these early encounters set the stage for a tumultuous relationship moving forward.
Fast forward to the 2000s, and Cho would make appearances on *The Ellen DeGeneres Show*. Rather than rekindling their connection, Cho felt that DeGeneres behaved as if they were mere acquaintances, which only added to Cho’s feelings of frustration and alienation. For someone who had opened for her during the early days of her comedy career, the lack of warmth in those interactions was disheartening. Cho expected at least a semblance of acknowledgment from DeGeneres, someone whom she had respected over the years.
Editing Out: A Snub from the Late David Bowie Incident
One notable incident that Cho highlighted involved an appearance by the legendary musician David Bowie on DeGeneres’s show. In this episode, Bowie publicly praised Cho’s outfit, a compliment that should have been celebrated. However, Cho was upset to discover that segments of the interview—including Bowie’s commendation—were edited out before broadcast. This decision left her questioning whether there were personal motives behind it, although she was aware that time constraints could also be factors in such editing decisions.
Regardless of the reasons, the absence of acknowledgment from DeGeneres during these moments is indicative of a broader pattern in their interactions. Cho’s perspective provides a glimpse into the politics of showbiz, where relationships and professional dynamics can be complex and fraught with unresolved tensions.
Reflecting on DeGeneres’s Reputation and Impact
As Ellen DeGeneres has recently faced significant scrutiny regarding her workplace environment and accusations of fostering a toxic atmosphere on her show, Cho’s remarks take on even deeper meaning. Many former employees and guests have come forward with similar reflections, sharing their uncomfortable experiences from working with DeGeneres. These allegations have altered the public’s perception of her, revealing a stark contrast to the lighthearted, approachable persona she cultivated on-screen.
Cho’s insights bring to light the often-unspoken challenges entertainers face, particularly women and minorities, in navigating their careers alongside established figures in the industry. It raises questions about mentorship, support, and the nature of competition within the entertainment space. Given these revelations, Cho’s reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of kindness and solidarity, especially among those who share similar aspirations and experiences.
Conclusion
Margaret Cho courageously shared her truth about her experiences with Ellen DeGeneres, shedding light on a relationship that represents a larger narrative in the entertainment industry. Her story underscores the importance of fostering supportive spaces rather than perpetuating unkind behavior, which can have lasting implications on careers. If you’re interested in exploring more stories that highlight the complexities of the entertainment industry, be sure to follow our blog for more insights and updates.
