Was The Ellen Show never a good place to work? DJ Tony Okungbowa was there on air with Ellen from the beginning, from 2003 for three years, and then from 2007- 2013. He was a very buoyant pleasant Ed McMahon/Doc Severinsen foil for Ellen and helped create her whole “dance” persona that really lifted her up in the ratings.
But now Tony says on Instagram and Twitter that it was all an act, and calls out the show for its “toxicity of environment.” What he doesn’t say is why he left for four years, why he returned, and left again after six years. But his statement leaves a lot to the imagination. What a shame. All that dancing looked so happy.
Tony writes:
“Hey Guys,
I hope you are all keeping safe out there during these trying times. I have been getting calls asking me about the Ellen Degeneres Show and I would like to address the time I spent there. I was on air talent from 2003-2006 and from 2007 -2013. While I am grateful for the opportunity it afforded me, I did experience and feel the toxicity of the environment and I stand with my former colleagues in their quest to create a healthier and more inclusive workplace as the show moves forward.”
