Ellen DeGeneres returned to the air for the 18th season of her daytime talk show on Monday.
Speaking from her studio to a virtual audience, DeGeneres kicked off the season premiere by addressing the allegations of a toxic work environment that “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” has faced in recent months, according to CNN.
“I learned that things happened here that never should have happened,” DeGeneres said, according to CNN. “ I take that every seriously and I want to say I am so sorry to the people that were affected.”
“I know that I’m in a position of privilege and power,” DeGeneres continued, according to the New York Times. “And I realized that with that comes responsibility, and I take responsibility for what happens at my show.”
Earlier this year, former and current employees of the “Ellen” show told BuzzFeed News that they had experienced mistreatment, racism and toxicity on the set, the Deseret News previously reported.
As a result of the allegations, the show was investigated by WarnerMedia and three top producers parted ways with the show in August, according to the Deseret News.
On Monday’s show, DeGeneres also discussed her “be kind” brand and said that “being known as the ‘Be Kind Lady’ is a tricky position to be in,” according to Entertainment Weekly.
“The truth is I am that person that you see on TV,” said DeGeneres, according to EW. “I am also a lot of other things. I 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.”
A source told People magazine that DeGeneres’ opening monologue was appreciated by the crew, who applauded when she walked off set.
“It was an emotional moment for everyone; she thanked everyone,” the source told People.
Monday’s show also featured DeGeneres introducing DJ Stephen “tWitch” Boss as a new co-executive producer, as well as a visit with actress Tiffany Haddish, according to the New York Times.