Ellen DeGeneres, now living a quieter life in the English countryside, has rarely spoken publicly about current events in the U.S. – but she recently made a rare statement regarding the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis.
Ellen Speaks Out
The 67-year-old comedian addressed the tragedy for the first time since Good, 37, was shot in the head by ICE officer Jonathan Ross on January 7, shortly after dropping off her six-year-old child at school.
In an Instagram video directed at Minneapolis residents, DeGeneres reflected on her personal connection to the city, noting that she filmed her 2024 Netflix special, Ellen DeGeneres: For Your Approval, there.
“Hey everybody, I just wanted to say I am so sorry for what is happening in Minneapolis and in our country, really, but especially in Minneapolis right now,” she said.
“I filmed my special there, and the people couldn’t have been more lovely. They say it’s the happiest city in America – and I found that to be true.”
DeGeneres went on to express support for peaceful protests and concern for anyone hurt while exercising their right to protest:
“My thoughts and prayers are with everyone, and I’m proud of all those standing peacefully. I’m sorry for anyone harmed while doing what they should be able to do – speak out and protest.”
She concluded the message simply, saying:
“Anyway, I am just sending love.”
Tribute to Renee Nicole Good
Alongside the video, DeGeneres shared a photo of Renee Good, adding her own words to a tribute originally written by author and former presidential candidate Marianne Williamson:
“I’m so sad, and so angry, and so worried.”
The post referenced a letter from Renee’s wife, Becca Good, published by Minnesota Public Radio, describing Renee’s radiant kindness:
“If you ever met my wife, Renee Nicole Macklin Good, you know she was above all else kind. Renee sparkled – literally. Not with glitter, but it seemed like she had sparkles coming out of her pores. Her family would say the same. She was made of sunshine.”
Footage and Incident Details
Video from January 9, shared by Alpha News, shows the incident from the officer’s perspective. Renee is behind the wheel of her SUV, and Becca records the encounter while speaking to the person filming:
“And just so you know, it will be the same plate when you come talk to us later. That’s fine. You want to come at us? Go get yourself some lunch, big boy.”
Moments later, commands can be heard:
“Get out of the car. Get out of the car. Get out of the f—ing car.”
Renee attempts to drive forward while Becca urges her:
“Drive, baby, drive — drive!”
Multiple gunshots then ring out, followed by a voice shouting a profanity. Bystander footage confirms that ICE officer Ross, masked at the scene, fired into the vehicle, causing it to crash.
Support for Minneapolis Protesters
Since the shooting, federal agents have maintained operations in Minnesota, prompting protests. On January 19, DeGeneres shared another video expressing solidarity with demonstrators resisting federal enforcement, captioned simply:
“Hold on.”
Ellen DeGeneres’ rare public statements highlight her concern for justice and civil rights while drawing attention to ongoing events in Minneapolis following the tragic death of Renee Nicole Good.