In a recent episode of The Kelly Mantle Show, comedian Margaret Cho opened up about her long-standing and uncomfortable dynamic with former talk show host Ellen DeGeneres. Cho described how DeGeneres consistently acted as if they were strangers during their many professional encounters, despite having crossed paths for decades. She recounted an awkward moment involving David Bowie, who praised her flamboyant outfit on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, only for the segment to be mysteriously cut from the final airing. Cho’s reflections come amid ongoing scrutiny surrounding DeGeneres' past workplace controversies, which led to the end of her iconic show after nearly two decades. In her stand-up special, DeGeneres humorously acknowledged the backlash, admitting that her public persona didn’t always align with reality.

Cho Reflects on Distant Encounters and On-Air Omissions

Dating back to the 1980s when Margaret Cho served as an opening act for Ellen DeGeneres at comedy clubs, the two shared numerous professional settings. However, in later years—particularly during Cho's appearances on *The Ellen DeGeneres Show* in the 2000s—DeGeneres reportedly acted as though they had never met. During a candid conversation on *The Kelly Mantle Show*, Cho expressed confusion over this recurring coldness, describing it as unsettling and unexplained. One particular memory stood out: legendary artist David Bowie, appearing on the show shortly after attending one of his concerts where Cho wore an extravagant "Chinese emperor" costume, publicly praised her attire. Yet, the exchange was mysteriously removed from the aired version. A producer friend later informed Cho that Bowie had been effusive in his praise, adding that even “God said your name.” While Cho couldn't confirm any malicious intent behind the edit, she admitted she took it personally.

This anecdote unfolded against the backdrop of broader criticism aimed at DeGeneres’ once-beloved daytime empire. In 2020, investigative reports by BuzzFeed News revealed allegations of toxic workplace culture, including claims of racism and intimidation by senior producers. As a result, three producers were dismissed, and DeGeneres issued a public apology. Further controversy came in 2022 when singer Greyson Chance, signed under DeGeneres’ label, labeled her as manipulative and self-serving in an interview with *Rolling Stone*. That same year, *The Ellen DeGeneres Show* concluded its 19-season run. On stage and in her Netflix special *For Your Approval*, DeGeneres addressed the fallout with dry humor, acknowledging the irony of being known as the “Be Kind Girl” while struggling to live up to that image.

As a journalist observing this unfolding narrative, what stands out is the complexity of public personas versus private behavior. Margaret Cho’s personal recounting highlights how even within tightly knit entertainment circles, relationships can remain distant or strained. Her experience also underscores the power dynamics in media—how moments can be edited, erased, or recontextualized for presentation. DeGeneres’ journey from America’s sweetheart to a figure of controversy illustrates the fragile nature of celebrity image. This story serves as a reminder that behind every polished broadcast lies a human story—one often hidden beneath layers of production, editing, and carefully curated kindness.