Comedian Ellen DeGeneres is facing backlash after commenting on the ongoing protests in Minneapolis, describing the city as the “happiest in America.” She made the remarks from her home in the English countryside, where she now lives with her partner, Portia de Rossi.
In a video posted online, DeGeneres said, “I just wanted to say I am so sorry for what is happening in Minneapolis and our country, really, but specifically Minneapolis right now. It’s where I shot my last stand-up special, and everyone there couldn’t have been more lovely.” She added, “I shot it there because they say it’s the happiest city in America, and I found that to be true.”
DeGeneres also expressed support for peaceful protestors, saying her thoughts were with those affected and apologizing for anyone hurt while exercising their right to protest.
Reactions to her comments were mixed. Some users praised her for showing empathy:
- “Love will always outweigh hate!”
- “Peace through unity, even with differing political views.”
- “As a Minnesotan, thank you. It’s rough here.”
Others criticized her remarks or questioned her understanding of the situation:
- “Ellen has no clue what’s going on out there.”
- “Ellen, you should ask these illegal immigrants to cooperate with ICE so no one has to protest.”
- “Why don’t these people stay home and let ICE do the job we voted for?”
- “You really think anyone cares what you think now? Dream on.”
DeGeneres and de Rossi relocated to the U.K. after former President Donald Trump’s re-election in November 2024. The couple sold their Montecito home in August 2024 and are reportedly living in the Cotswolds region, although their exact location has not been confirmed. They were recently seen enjoying the countryside lifestyle with friends at The Farmer’s Dog.
