Comedian and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres recently revealed a painful chapter of her early life—sexual abuse by her stepfather starting in her teenage years. Speaking candidly in a series of interviews, including a deeply personal conversation with David Letterman for his Netflix show My Next Guest Needs No Introduction, Ellen shared how this trauma impacted her life and shaped her perspectives.
The abuse began when Ellen was about 15 or 16, during a time her mother was battling breast cancer. Her stepfather used the illness as a guise to manipulate and sexually assault her, convincing her it was necessary due to concerns about her mother’s health.
Ellen initially kept the abuse secret out of fear and confusion. When she finally told her mother, the revelation was met with disbelief, and her mother remained with her abuser for 18 more years. This rejection and betrayal added layers of emotional pain and complicated healing.
Over the years, Ellen has become an outspoken advocate for survivors of abuse, hoping her voice encourages others to speak out and seek help. She expressed anger at those who doubt victims, emphasizing that memories of trauma are often fragmented and painful, but undeniably real.
Ellen’s story is a courageous reminder of the complexities of abuse, the importance of belief and support for survivors, and the possibility of healing despite profound hardship.
