Ellen DeGeneres issued an apology to the world during her opening monologue for season 18 of her daytime talk show. The comedian had a lot to address concerning the "toxic environment" that former employees had spoken out about. Along with the apology, DeGeneres explained the future of the show and made a big announcement.

DeGeneres first became the center of controversy towards the beginning of quarantine when she hired a new production staff to help her create at-home content while many of her employees remained furloughed. It was around mid-April that crew members spoke out about their frustrations. They went weeks without knowing if they would still receive payments from the show which was still airing content. Communication between crews and the network was little to none.

Following this scuffle, former employees began to come forward online, calling the show a "toxic environment." This was surprising to hear, considering Ellen's motto has always been "be kind."

Soon after, executive producers Andy Lassner, Mary Connelly, and Ed Glavin all parted ways with the studio, amidst a sexual harassment investigation.

Today, for the first time in months, Ellen returned to the studio to kick off season 18 of The Ellen Show.

In her opening monologue she stated:

"As you may have heard, this summer there were allegations of a toxic work environment at our show and then there was an investigation. I learned that things happened here that never should have happened. I take that every seriously and I want to say I am so sorry to the people that were affected. I know that I am in a position of privilege and power, and with that ,comes responsibility, and I take responsibility for what happens at my show."

As for her character, she had this to say:

"The truth is, I am that person that you see on TV. I am also a lot of other things. Sometimes I get sad...I get mad, I get anxious, I get frustrated, I get impatient. And I am working on all of that. I am a work in progress."

DeGeneres then shifted the spotlight over to show contributor Twitch. In the past, Twitch had served as DJ and a featured voice on the show, along with being Ellen's friend of course. Degeneres announced that Twitch will now be stepping up as her new co-executive producer.

'The Ellen Show' has been on air since 2003 and has just begun its 18th season on NBC.