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「Ellen」 came out as gay nearly 30 years ago. TV hasn't been the same

Ellen DeGeneres (left) made TV history when her character came out on a 1997 episode of her sitcom "Ellen." Laura Dern guest starred as her love interest. ABC/Getty Images
Ellen DeGeneres (left) made TV history when her character came out on a 1997 episode of her sitcom "Ellen." Laura Dern guest starred as her love interest. ABC/Getty Images

In 1997, “The Puppy Episode” of *Ellen* made history when Ellen DeGeneres and her character, Ellen Morgan, both came out as gay. This groundbreaking moment was a turning point in television history, paving the way for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media. Despite network concerns and backlash, the episode was watched by over 42 million people and received immense support, inspiring many to come out themselves.

The journey began when DeGeneres decided that she wanted her character to be true to her real self. With support from her team and interviews with LGBTQ+ writers, the show carefully crafted Ellen’s coming-out story. The episode humorously and sensitively explored Ellen’s struggles, culminating in the iconic scene where she finally declares, “I’m gay,” inadvertently speaking into a microphone at an airport.Dava Savel (left) poses with Ellen DeGeneres and writers Tracy Newman and Jonathan Stark at the 1997 Emmy Awards. on Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection/Getty Images

The success of “The Puppy Episode” influenced future shows like *Will & Grace* and *Modern Family*, normalizing gay characters on television. Despite the eventual cancellation of *Ellen*, DeGeneres left a lasting legacy. While TV has since evolved, challenges in representing LGBTQ+ identities, particularly lesbian characters, remain. Nonetheless, *Ellen*’s impact is undeniable, forever marking a pivotal moment in the history of television and LGBTQ+ visibility.

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