On April 30, 1997, Ellen DeGeneres made history. On this day, the comedian came out both on her hit sitcom, Ellen, and in her real life. This groundbreaking moment, featured in the third episode of CNN’s TV On the Edge: Moments That Shaped Our Culture, attracted over 40 million viewers and paved the way for accurate gay representation on primetime television.
The episode, titled “Ellen Comes Out,” explores how DeGeneres’ bold move influenced and continues to influence cultural norms and societal perceptions. By sharing her truth, DeGeneres not only broke barriers but also ignited a spark that has illuminated the path toward more inclusive and diverse storytelling on the small screen.
The documentary looks into the far-reaching impact of this pivotal moment.
TV On the Edge: Moments That Shaped Our Culture – Ellen Comes Out airs on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 9:00 p.m. on CNN.