Ellen: I was ‘hurt’ and ‘isolated’ by some reactions to my decision to come out as gay
US television host Ellen Degeneres has reflected on some reactions to her decision to come out as gay, saying her “feelings were hurt” by some, and that she “felt isolated”.
Speaking to People Magazine, the host said: “I didn’t think it was going to be that much of a surprise. What hurt was this: Does that label, that word, change my talent, my kindness, my heart, my intention for entertaining people? The bottom line is as simple as this, my feelings were hurt. I just gave up and moved to Ojai [California] and sat in my house as long as I could until I ran out of money. Then I started over again.”
Ellen came out as gay in 1997, and is now married to Portia Di Rossi. She is one of the best known personalities on US television.
“Looking back, I did feel isolated, I did feel rejected, but now I look at it as a movie that I saw that someone went through. I only experience the amazing life that I have right now,” she continued.
The 56-year old went on: “I’m so blessed in many ways, but I’m not always funny. I’m not always happy. I’m a human being, I don’t want to be expected to be funny all the time. It’s not real. I’m constantly learning and growing and trying to be better … Talking for a living makes you really, really love peace and quiet. When I’m done for the day, I like quiet. I talk all day long, so driving home I don’t’ talk. I just listen to the radio … Sometimes Portia and I sit and talk or go for a long walk with the dogs. I try to be quiet and meditative before bed.”
