20 Years Ago Tonight, Ellen Made History
@TheEllenShow (Instagram)
It’s hard to believe 1997 is already 20 years ago. I mean where has time gone?
I guess the world was a different place in 1997. I don’t really remember a time when Ellen DeGeneres wasn’t on my television set.
But everyone remembers where they were when Ellen told the world she was gay.
That’s because 42 million people tuned in to watch her do it, even though she faced backlash and hate.
It was just 5 little words. “I’m Ellen and I’m Gay.” That was it. It was controversial, it was groundbreaking, and it was the hardest thing she’s ever had to do. But we’re so glad she did.
Despite threats from advertisers and religious groups, “The Puppy Episode,” as it was called, was an enormous ratings success, won multiple awards and became a cultural phenomenon.
On Friday’s episode of The Ellen Show, two guest stars from that historic episode joined her to re-live that day. Oprah Winfrey and Laura Dern discussed the progress of LGBT issues since then.
You can watch the opening of yesterday’s show, and even take a look at the full episode of Ellen from this day in 1997 below.
Finally, thank you, Ellen, for making the world a better, funnier, and kinder place.
Today is a very special day. Let’s celebrate equality together. pic.twitter.com/4USP7GbfCA
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) April 28, 2017
You can watch my full coming out episode on ABC online. It means as much to me now as it did then. https://t.co/YFa1MoVqbb
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) April 28, 2017