The scenic Cotswolds, known for its celebrity residents like the Beckhams and British royalty, has recently welcomed another notable figure: former Hollywood superstar Ellen DeGeneres. After decades in the limelight, Ellen has chosen this tranquil English countryside as her new home.
Ellen DeGeneres was a household name on both sides of the Atlantic, renowned for her long-running daytime talk show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Premiering on September 8, 2003, the show entertained millions with celebrity interviews, dancing, and Ellen’s signature message to “be kind to one another.” Over its nearly 20-year run, the show earned 61 Daytime Emmy Awards from 171 nominations—a testament to its popularity and influence.
However, in July 2020, Ellen’s career faced a major setback when allegations of a toxic workplace environment surfaced. Former employees accused the show of bullying, creating a culture of fear, and even misconduct by producers. These revelations severely damaged Ellen’s reputation. Adding fuel to the fire was a widely discussed 2019 interview with actress Dakota Johnson, who contradicted Ellen’s claim about not being invited to her 30th birthday party, highlighting growing tensions beneath Ellen’s friendly image.
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The fallout was swift and severe. Fan support dwindled, the show’s ratings plummeted, and several sponsors severed ties. Ultimately, after 19 seasons, The Ellen DeGeneres Show was cancelled in 2022. Ellen publicly apologized to those affected, but the damage to her public image was irreparable.
In the wake of these events, Ellen and her wife, Portia de Rossi, relocated to the peaceful Cotswolds countryside. The couple purchased a sprawling estate estimated to be worth around £20 million, embracing a quieter, more private lifestyle. They’ve been seen enjoying local spots like Jeremy Clarkson’s The Farmer’s Dog pub in Burford. Ellen has shared glimpses of their home on social media, showcasing an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space with floor-to-ceiling windows offering picturesque views of lush greenery. The interior is elegantly understated, featuring muted tones, leather chairs, glass tables, and tasteful rugs.
Despite this retreat, Ellen attempted a comeback in 2024 with a Netflix stand-up special and a farewell comedy tour. During her performances, she openly addressed the controversies, admitting, “I got kicked out of show business for being mean.” Unfortunately, the comeback was met with critics who deemed her act self-pitying rather than redemptive, causing her efforts to regain public favor to falter.
By 2025, Ellen, now 68, has officially retired from show business. She remains in the Cotswolds, living away from the public eye and reflecting on a career marked by spectacular highs and challenging lows.