How DeGeneres.
In response to mounting allegations of a toxic work environment at Ellen DeGeneres’ eponymous talk show, Page Six has confirmed that the host is increasing perks for her employees. We’re told staffers will receive increased paid time off—an additional five days to what they were already receiving, which we’re told varies—and a generous medical leave policy.
Executive producers Andy Lassner and Mary Connelly on Monday delivered the news, which we’re told was something DeGeneres and the senior team felt strongly about adding given how they produce more than 170 shows per year.
Clearly, the “Ellen” show isn’t going anywhere despite WarnerMedia’s ongoing investigation, as Lassner previously stated.
The new benefits package, which also includes birthdays off and paid time for medical appointments and family matters, also comes after DeGeneres, 62, emotionally addressed her staff via Zoom on Monday and apologized for the behind-the-scenes incidents. She also admitted she had no idea where the now-infamous no-eye-contact rule came from and encouraged employees to look at her.
Insiders told us that the new perks and a direct address from DeGeneres this week have improved morale on the set, as rehearsals for DeGeneres’ spinoff show “Ellen’s Game of Games” resumed. The talk show team also started to return to work to wake up production offices and sound stages.
A separate source added that DeGeneres will return to set next week and some staffers are excited to “move forward” from the drama.