Last updated on: January 27, 2025
Elliott DeGeneres was the father of Ellen DeGeneres, a famous comedian and TV host. Although Elliott wasn’t a public figure like his daughter, he played an important role in shaping Ellen’s life and career. Let’s learn more about him.
Quick Facts About Elliott DeGeneres
| Full Name | Elliott Everett DeGeneres |
| Birthdate | January 1, 1925 |
| Occupation | Insurance Salesman |
| Husband/Wife | Betty DeGeneres (m. 1952–1974), remarried later |
| Died | January 2018 |
| Age at Death | 93 years |
| Parents | Ruth Elodie Martin, Elliott Everett DeGeneres |
| Siblings | Not Known |
| Children | Ellen DeGeneres (daughter), Vance DeGeneres (son) |
| Net Worth | Estimated around <$1 million (from his career in insurance) |
Early Life and Career
Elliott DeGeneres was born on January 1, 1925. He worked as an insurance salesman for most of his life. Elliott was married to Betty DeGeneres (née Pfeffer), a speech therapist. They had two children together: Ellen and her older brother, Vance. Elliott and Betty divorced when Ellen was just 16 years old.
Elliot was a believer in Christian Science. He never went to a medicine man and used no medicines at all. His children were also taught the same, so they never received any vaccinations or normal medical treatment. This was against the trend followed by many others, but he was strict with his principles.
Relationship with Ellen DeGeneres
Ellen DeGeneres often spoke well of her dad, full of affection and endearment. She described him as kind and accepting. Ellen still had a strong bond with her father during these difficult times after divorcing.
She told a lot of Elliott about her childhood. One particular story that she has always remembered to this day was their visit to the Warner Bros. studio. Ellen loved and cherished the visit, and as a result, she would be talking about it for a very long time. She recalled the pride that made Elliott feel during her successful sojourn in television. Ellen noted that he became very supportive even after she grew old.
When Elliott passed away in 2018, Ellen posted a very heartfelt tribute. She remembered the most touching moment after talking to her father when a rainbow appeared over her studio. Ellen considered this as a sign that her father was still with her. It was a beautiful reminder of their strong connection.
Elliott’s Later Life and Second Marriage
After his divorce from Betty, Elliott remarried. His second wife had two daughters from a previous relationship, making them Ellen’s step-sisters. However, things became difficult when Ellen publicly came out as a lesbian. Some members of Elliott’s second family did not approve of her lifestyle, which caused tension. Despite this, Elliott remained a supportive figure in Ellen’s life. He always loved his daughter and was proud of her, even during the tough times.
READ ALSO: Ellen DeGeneres Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Elliott’s Legacy
Although not a public figure like his daughter, the influence of Elliott DeGeneres is quite evident. He taught Ellen the importance of living a life without judgment and authentically. These are lessons that Ellen carried with her as she matured and became a renowned voice for LGBTQ+ rights. She often speaks out on kindness and acceptance through her platform, virtues that her father instilled in her.
Elliott passed away in 2018 at the age of 92. Ellen talks about how sad it was to lose him; however, that there is still so much love and lessons he left behind. His memory is what continues to mold her life and work.
Source: celebs.infoseemedia.com
