Ellen DeGeneres is quietly purging her private home art collection.
The embattled talk show host is putting about $10 million worth of art up for auction, Bloomberg reported.
Some of the items being unloaded appeared in the background of her home while she filmed her talk show remotely during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic. Bloomberg noted that Ellen is ridding herself of several sheep sculptures, which are reportedly valued at around $500,000 to $1 million each. A few of them have already been scooped up by deep-pocketed art collectors.
Ellen is also getting rid of two pieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat and a mobile sculpture by Alexander Calder.
Different items are being auctioned off by Sotheby's Gallery and through the Van de Weghe Fine Art Gallery.
Thus far, 2020 has seen quite a bit of change for Ellen, particularly in the court of public opinion. Throughout the summer, she was battered with reports of rude behavior and allegations that she perpetuated a toxic production environment.
Earlier this week, she returned to her talk show to launch her 18th season and immediately addressed the allegations.
"I learned that things happened here that never should have happened. I take that very seriously and I want to say I am so sorry to the people that were affected," she said. "I know that I am in a position of privilege and power and with that comes responsibility and I take responsibility for what happens at my show."
Ellen also joked about her "Be Kind" motto, something she says at the end of every show.
"Being known as the 'be kind' lady is a tricky position to be in," she said. "So let me give you some advice out there if anybody's thinking of changing their title or giving yourself a nickname, do not go with the 'be kind' lady. Don't do it. The truth is I am that person that you see on TV."