Ellen DeGeneres Says She’s Happier, Healthier Since Leaving the U.S.—And She Might Never Come Back

Ellen DeGeneres has long been known as America’s smiling daytime queen, the woman who danced her way into millions of living rooms and hearts. But now, two years after walking away from the spotlight, she’s found peace far from the place she once called home — and she’s not sure she wants to return.

In a surprising and emotional update shared with close friends — and later confirmed by sources familiar with her inner circle — the 66-year-old talk show legend says she’s “never felt better” since leaving the United States. The comedian, whose signature line “be kind to one another” once defined daytime TV, has quietly relocated overseas and has been living a life well away from Hollywood’s harsh glare.

“Ellen feels free,” one longtime friend told Entertainment Weekly. “She’s sleeping better. She’s smiling more. It’s like she finally exhaled after holding her breath for years.”

From Fame to Fallout

DeGeneres became one of the most beloved figures in American entertainment thanks to The Ellen DeGeneres Show, which ran from 2003 to 2022. Her influence extended far beyond daytime TV — she hosted the Oscars, launched fashion lines, signed brand deals, and even received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.

But the final years of her show were marred by controversy. In 2020, allegations of a toxic workplace behind the scenes — including claims of racism, intimidation, and sexual misconduct by senior producers — rocked her empire. Though Ellen apologized publicly and pledged to do better, the damage had been done. Ratings dropped, headlines turned critical, and her reputation took a major hit.

When the show ended in May 2022, Ellen quietly disappeared from the limelight. No big farewell tour. No next project. Just silence.

And now, we know why.

“I Don’t Feel Comfortable in America Anymore”

According to people close to DeGeneres, she left the U.S. in early 2024 and has since been living between Portugal and New Zealand — two countries she has described as “peaceful, private, and full of kindness.” In quiet towns and coastal retreats, Ellen has reportedly taken up nature walks, meditation, and long-distance hiking.

“She told us she just doesn’t feel safe or supported in America anymore,” one source said. “She knows millions of fans still love her, but the energy has changed. She doesn’t recognize the country she once worked so hard to entertain.”

In private conversations, Ellen has cited rising political division, public shaming culture, and an overall loss of empathy as reasons for not wanting to return.

A Changed Woman

Though she remains inactive on social media, DeGeneres occasionally sends messages to close friends and colleagues. One recent note simply read: “The peace I’ve found outside the U.S. is something I didn’t know I needed. I’m not angry. I’m just done.”

Her wife, actress Portia de Rossi, is said to be fully supportive of the move and has joined Ellen abroad. The couple is reportedly spending their time renovating a farmhouse, growing their own food, and volunteering with local animal shelters.

“She’s doing yoga every morning. She’s not on her phone all the time. She’s healing,” a family friend said. “She’s Ellen again. Just without the cameras.”

Fans Miss Her — But Understand

Despite her retreat from public life, Ellen’s fans haven’t forgotten her. Online forums and social media threads frequently include messages like:

“Daytime TV hasn’t been the same without her.”

“She gave us so much joy for so many years. She deserves peace.”

“Ellen, if you’re reading this, we still love you.”

A recent fan-run campaign on X (formerly Twitter) called #ComeBackEllen has trended multiple times, though sources say DeGeneres has no plans to re-enter television.

“She’s not planning a return — not right now,” one insider said. “But she hasn’t completely ruled it out. If she ever did, it would be on her terms, and maybe not in America.”

A Legacy That Endures

Though Ellen’s exit was quiet, her legacy is not. Her impact on LGBTQ+ visibility, philanthropy, and pop culture remains immense. She came out on national television at a time when few dared. She built one of the most successful talk shows in history. And for nearly two decades, she brought laughter to millions every afternoon.

“She changed lives,” said one former producer. “Even in the end, when the headlines turned, the people who worked with her knew her heart.”

Whether or not she returns to the U.S. or the public eye, one thing is clear: Ellen DeGeneres is finally living life on her own terms.

And after decades of giving, maybe it’s her turn to simply be.