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ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: Did you have a big behind-the-scenes role on that show?
ELLEN DEGENERES: I played some part in the coming-out episode [''The Puppy Episode,'' April 30, 1997] because it was very important to me. But for everything else, I just sat back and let everybody else do it. Now I have a say in everything with the talk show.
Tell me about your decision to do a stint as the center square on Hollywood Squares in 2002.
It was a strategic thing. Everyone had forgotten that I had gotten to that point in my career because I was funny. Once I came out, it became all about that. I hadn't worked for three years. Some people lost sight of who I was, so I was trying to gain my fan base back. It absolutely worked. I'm here.
You hosted the Oscars in 2007. Is that a thankless job?
Yes, I think any hosting job is thankless. But it's really not about you, it's about the people who are sitting there, wondering if they're winning or losing. It's about everybody but you. I feel sorry for anybody who hosts anything.
That said, would you host the Oscars again?
I was a little disappointed that I didn't get asked to host this year, but then I was so grateful because it was such a bad year. If it comes [again] and it feels right, I'll do it.
What's on your TiVo?
Most of my things I watch are on Animal Planet, like Escape to Chimp Eden. I also watch bad reality like My Fair Brady and My Big Redneck Wedding.
Is there anything you won't do on your talk show?
I try really hard to stay away from anything judgmental, even with Britney. No matter what the story is, if it involves attacking someone or making fun of something that's happening, I won't do it. I want this show to be a very safe zone and for it to be an hour of feeling good.
Would you ever do a sitcom again?
I'm going to be doing this for a long time, so I can't imagine wanting to do something after; the talk show is pretty much going to be it. When I walk away from this, I'll walk away for good.
And when might that be? Will we see The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2018?
Ten more years is a long time. I could be hovering in a space suit because we should be flying by then. We were supposed to fly a long time ago, according to The Jetsons. The audience wouldn't even be seated in chairs, they'd be in some type of swinging harness and we wouldn't be talking. Instead of applauding and cheering, it'll change to hums, like dolphins. So I'll hum in a certain way to say goodbye. That's probably how I'll sign off.
ANSWERS TO THE ELLEN MINI-QUIZ
1. A (Jennifer Aniston)
2. Oprah Winfrey
3. D (Seinfeld)
4. Dakota Fanning
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