The Strict Guidelines You Must Follow As An Ellen Audience Member

Published on 04/18/2023

There is no doubt that The Ellen DeGeneres Show is the most popular American talk show. Unfortunately, tickets for the show are difficult to come by! However, many who were fortunate enough to be in the crowd have spoken about their experiences. Here are the studio guidelines they had to obey…

The Strict Guidelines You Have To Follow When You Are An Audience Member On Ellen

The Strict Guidelines You Must Follow As An Ellen Audience Member

You Can’t Take Pictures

To be clear, taking photos of Ellen on stage is not permitted. You may only take photos while buying at the Ellen Shop or waiting in line to enter the studio. Do not dare to be a member of the audience! A member of the production crew will approach you and instruct you to delete them.

You Can't Take Photos

You Can’t Take Pictures

There Isn’t Enough Time To Sign Autographs

If you go to a recording and expect the host to autograph a photo or a book, you should reconsider. The show has a very tight timetable, so she doesn’t have much opportunity to socialize with the audience members. Keep in mind that if she signs an autograph for you, she will also need to sign autographs for over 300 other people in the audience.

No Time To Sign Autographs

There Isn’t Enough Time To Sign Autographs

Items You May Not Bring Inside

To be truthful, the majority of the objects on this list are deemed strange. The majority of people do not carry them on a daily basis. However, audience members should be in mind that sharp devices such as scissors, firearms, and even knitting needles are not permitted. The recording screening is similar to airport security procedures. If you can’t bring it on a plane, don’t bring it to the studio!

The Items You Can't Bring Inside

Items You May Not Bring Inside

You Have To Follow A Dress Code

It makes perfect sense to have a clothing code during a television show taping. After all, the show’s aesthetic will be influenced by the audience members. The coordinating staff is only concerned with the audience’s performance. Remember that you will be on national television, so tidy up!

You Have To Follow A Dress Code

You Have To Follow A Dress Code

No Logos On Clothes

You are not permitted to wear apparel containing logos, for example. You shouldn’t even wear anything with Ellen’s name on it! The team suggests wearing bold, solid colors. Audience members, on the other hand, are discouraged from wearing busy designs such as paisley and polka dots since they seem to move onscreen, buzz, or distract viewers. If you ever wear something with these on, you will be seated in the rear to avoid being caught on camera.

No Logos On Clothes

No Logos On Clothes

Limited Bathroom Breaks

There are restrooms available while you wait to check in for the taping. You’ll need to plan ahead of time because there are just a couple of toilet breaks until you get to the stage. If you ever need to use the restroom while the cameras are rolling, you will miss some of it.

Limited Bathroom Breaks

Limited Bathroom Breaks

During The Breaks, The Audience Is Required To Dance

Everyone knows how much dancing takes place on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Did you realize you had to dance during commercials? In fact, you may be unable to sit during these periods. If you are confident in your dance abilities, this is the time and place to show them off. There is always some form of dance competition to find the most talented individual in the audience!

The Audience Has To Dance During Breaks

During The Breaks, The Audience Is Required To Dance

Food And Drinks Are Not Allowed

You are not permitted to bring alcohol or food into the discussion show’s soundstage. After all, when you’re drinking or eating, it’s quite easy to produce a mess. Nobody wants to watch that on national television! Furthermore, it can be quite distracting in more ways than one. Can you image watching Ellen interview your favorite celebrity while hearing chomping in the background?

Food And Drinks Are Not Allowed

Food And Drinks Are Not Allowed

The Celebrity Guests Are Kept A Secret

This one is quite intriguing. The celebrity guests who attend the recording are never announced by the coordinating crew. The only information on the tickets is the time and date of filming. The celebrity visitors are not revealed until the day of filming. This is done in the event that the original visitor is unable to attend.

The Celebrity Guests Are Kept A Secret

The Celebrity Guests Are Kept A Secret

Enthusiastic Guests Get To Play

If you wish to participate in one of the show’s games, you must demonstrate your passion. Before the cameras start filming, everyone who participates in the games is pre-selected. The production team searches for potential contenders as audience members check in. They will approach potential candidates and ask them to audition. When the moment comes, those with the greatest pep are chosen.

Enthusiastic Guests Get To Play

Enthusiastic Guests Get To Play

Your Gift Might Make It To Ellen

When they attend a recording, many individuals bring various presents for the talk show presenter. Stuffed animals, baked goods, stuffed animals, and thank you cards are typical gifts. After the show, these items are gathered and categorized. The crew must guarantee that none of them are hazardous!

Your Gift Might Make It To Ellen

Your Gift Might Make It To Ellen

Shouting Is Not Allowed

There is a warm-up performer who works the audience into a frenzy. When Ellen and her guests take the stage, the audience is encouraged to go wild! However, this is the only time you are permitted to yell. If you do this after the introductions, you may be escorted out. It doesn’t matter if you’re just trying to compliment Ellen or the other guests.

Shouting Is Not Allowed

Shouting Is Not Allowed

They Are Going To Search You

An unnamed insider described what it was like to be a member of The Ellen DeGeneres Show audience. The story on News.com.au discussed the experience of attending a talk show taping. One of the findings was the stringency of the security measures. According to the insider, everyone must pass through a metal detector before entering the plane.

They Are Going To Search You

They Are Going To Search You

Get Ready For The Cold Temperature

Given how bright the studio is, we can understand why you’d expect it to be hot in there. Ellen actually insists on running the air conditioner at full blast while filming! Members of the audience are encouraged to arrive prepared and dressed appropriately. Even if this is the case, we’re sure the tourists would appreciate the chilly air after busting out their dance moves.

Get Ready For The Cold Temperature

Get Ready For The Cold Temperature

Bring A Large Vehicle

Another piece of suggestion for audience members would be to bring the largest vehicles possible. After all, you never know what kind of goodies the program will provide. People who were there during the 2017 Mother’s Day episode left with a large pile of gifts. They were allowed to bring strollers, high chairs, car seats, and even Amazon Echoes home.

Bring A Big Car With You

Bring A Large Vehicle

You Need To Arrange Your Accommodation

There are audience members that reside not far from the Warner Bros. set. Many visitors, however, must take a plane to join the audience of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. If you are the latter, don’t anticipate any guidance or favors from those behind the scenes. You will have to find your own lodging and plan your own trip.

You Need To Arrange Your Accommodation

You Need To Arrange Your Accommodation

Fans With Special Requirements Need Two Weeks’ Notice

The Ellen DeGeneres Show strives to be as welcoming and accessible as possible. Those with particular needs, however, must inform the show’s organizers two weeks in advance. This will allow the team plenty of time to organize whatever that needs to be done. It’s wonderful to hear that they try to provide a pleasant experience for all of their guests.

Fans With Special Requirements Need Two Weeks’ Notice

Fans With Special Requirements Need Two Weeks’ Notice

No One Below 14 Years Old

Unfortunately, if you are under the age of 14, you are not permitted to be a member of the audience. You should also not try to sneak in! If you do not appear to be of legal drinking age, you must present a legal document proving your age. If you have a young face, don’t forget to bring a proper ID!

No One Below 14 Years Old

No One Below 14 Years Old

Friends And Family Members Might Not Be Seated Together

Some showgoers are fortunate enough to get tickets not just for themselves, but also for their loved ones. While you are welcome to attend the studio together, please in mind that you may not be seated next to each other. The staff cannot guarantee that your entire group will remain intact.

Friends And Family Members Might Not Be Seated Together

Friends And Family Members Might Not Be Seated Together

Every Row Needs To Choreograph A Special Dance Move

A News.com journalist described what it was like to be a member of the talk show’s audience. No one was surprised to learn that dancing consumed a significant amount of time during the taping. In fact, one reporter said that fans had to play choreographer on the show’s set as well! The warm-up person had each row of fans invent a unique dancing motion and then perform it for the cameras.

Every Row Needs To Choreograph A Special Dance Move

Every Row Needs To Choreograph A Special Dance Move

Front-Rowers Must Know Current Songs

You could be the biggest fan of the talk show presenter, but that won’t get you a wonderful spot on stage. You must also be conversant with the latest Hot 100 hits in the United States! People on the “Dance Row” must perform double duty. They must not only do their best movements, but also sing along to whichever music is playing when Ellen appears.

People In The Front Row Need To Be Familiar With Current Songs

Front-Rowers Must Know Current Songs

Studio Rules Prohibit Gum Chewing

If you chew a lot of gum, they might not let you into the studio! Chewing gum, it turns out, is a big no-no on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. We assume it has something to do with how nasty it seems on the television screen. Furthermore, it will prevent audience members from singing along to pop hits when Ellen takes the stage.

Chewing Gum Is Forbidden In The Studio

Studio Rules Prohibit Gum Chewing

You Are Going To Wait In Line

You must remain in line if you want to appear on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. The ticket specifies the time you should arrive for check-in. You should be aware that each filming usually involves more than 300 persons. After everyone has checked in, there will be a few announcements before the guests form lines to enter the stage. As you may expect, this will take some time!

You Are Going To Wait In Line

You Are Going To Wait In Line

Rain Or Shine, The Taping Will Go On

The show’s start time fluctuates throughout the week, so it’s critical to know what the weather will be like. Even while Southern California is mostly sunny, it does get rain on occasion. You may have to wait outside without a roof, so plan ahead of time. The coordination staff will do their best to make you comfortable, but they cannot control the weather.

Rain Or Shine, The Taping Will Go On

Rain Or Shine, The Taping Will Go On

You Should Not Take Advantage Of Her Generosity

Most people are aware that Ellen is generous with her show’s prizes. You should not, however, take advantage of this! Each person in the audience only gets one of each item. If you try to take more than that, the host will make fun of you! Nancy has firsthand knowledge of this.

You Should Not Take Advantage Of Her Generosity

You Should Not Take Advantage Of Her Generosity

Obtaining Tickets Is Difficult

Getting tickets to The Ellen DeGeneres Show is extremely difficult. Because so many individuals apply, it is not an exaggeration to state that it may take years! Others have not yet achieved success. Continue to try and don’t give up! You still have time because the show has at least three more seasons.

It Is Not Easy To Get Tickets

Obtaining Tickets Is Difficult

The Team Always Overbooks The Taping

The coordinating staff has a habit of overbooking the audience. They do this so that there would be individuals to fill the seats of those who were unable to attend. After all, having a lot of empty seats does not look good! They most likely wish to dodge questions from individuals watching from their homes. After all, they’d undoubtedly like to know why they didn’t acquire tickets when there are empty seats.

The Team Always Overbooks The Taping

The Team Always Overbooks The Taping

Ellen Does Occasional Q & A Segments With The Audience

Ellen occasionally finds herself with additional time on her hands, which does not happen very often. She has taken use of this occasion to conduct a question-and-answer session with members of the audience. There are occasions when it makes the cut, but it also happens off-camera. You should seize this opportunity if it presents itself! However, do not request selfies, autographs, embraces, or special tickets.

Ellen Does Occasional Q & A Segments With The Audience

Ellen Does Occasional Q & A Segments With The Audience

Tickets Cannot Be Obtained On The Same Day

It is not true that tickets can be obtained on the day of filming. There is a number for this event on the website of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. However, these days, this phone number is mostly utilized as a last resort. We’re sure this was a lot more useful in the show’s early seasons. It was not as large at the time as it is now.

You Can't Get Tickets On The Same Day

Tickets Cannot Be Obtained On The Same Day

You Should Leave Your Schedule Open On The Day Of Taping

How long does it take to tape the show? It appears to vary. Normally, it runs like a well-oiled machine. Let us not forget that it has been on the air for nearly two decades. When a technical issue occurs or a famous guest arrives late, there are still some delays. However, a taping typically lasts an hour, though it can last much longer.

You Should Leave Your Schedule Open On The Day Of Taping

You Should Leave Your Schedule Open On The Day Of Taping

No One Is Allowed To Stand Up

Members in the audience should remain seated throughout filming. During filming, no one is permitted to stand or wander around. This is a safety danger because crew members and personnel are moving heavy equipment back and forth. If there is an emergency, you must wait for a commercial break before someone can assist you.

No One Is Allowed To Stand Up

No One Is Allowed To Stand Up

Ellen Is Going To Surprise Or Shock You

Ellen enjoys scaring and surprise her guests. If you ever go to a filming, keep in mind that the worst can happen. Usually, there is a surprise guest or a pleasant freebie for the audience members. It’s a good thing Ellen prefers to frighten her famous visitors and producers!

Ellen Is Going To Surprise or Shock You

Ellen Is Going To Surprise or Shock You

The Audience Members Cannot Watch The Rehearsals

Before the episode is taped, there are rehearsals. Ellen usually practices her opening monologue, while the musical guests practice their songs and the production team plays games. The audience is not permitted on the soundstage while this is taking place. It means that if the rehearsals last longer than intended, audience members may have to sit outside for a longer period of time.

The Audience Members Cannot Watch The Rehearsals

The Audience Members Cannot Watch The Rehearsals

You Should Only Bring A Small Bag Or Purse

If you bring a handbag or bag, it should fit beneath the seat. After all, a big one will be a tripping danger with all the dancing during the commercial breaks! Aside from that, celebrity guests make their way through the back of the house and down the aisle. We’re sure no one wants to inadvertently damage a celebrity like that!

You Should Only Bring A Small Bag Or Purse

You Should Only Bring A Small Bag Or Purse

The Show Sometimes Goes Ahead Of Schedule

Ellen prefers to stick to the schedule when taping the show, but she also prefers to go ahead of it. On short notice, they will sometimes move the filming to an earlier time period. You should be cautious about your arrangements before the tape to guarantee that you will have enough time if the timetable changes.

The Show Sometimes Goes Ahead Of Schedule

The Show Sometimes Goes Ahead Of Schedule

Visit The Ellen Shop Before Or After Your Taping

Everyone seems to like the show’s goods! Ellen’s Shop is located on the soundstage in the area known as “The Riff-Raff Room.” If you are a VIP visitor, you will have plenty of time to browse before they begin taping. This is an excellent idea because it allows you to avoid big queues! Everyone else must wait until the taping is finished before they can leave.

Go To The Ellen Shop Before Or After Taping

Visit The Ellen Shop Before Or After Your Taping

Don’t Think About Sneaking Your Cellphone In With You

Constantly using your cellphone is a harmful habit that has become all too popular in recent years. Now, if you were in the Ellen audience, she would be overjoyed. Worse, imagine if your phone went off while you were shooting. There will be no recording, selfies, or Instagram updates. Save it for after the performance!

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Don’t Think You Can Sneak Your Cellphone In With You

You Need To Keep Up With Kardashians’

If you know Ellen, you know how much she adores the Kardashians – and you should, too! The Kardashians and Jenners have appeared on Ellen numerous times, so you might be in trouble if you don’t know what’s going on in their life. They are without a doubt her favorite celebrity family, as she not only constantly mentions them, but they also keep her happy and the audience entertained.

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You Need To Keep Up With Kardashians’

No Snacks Allowed!

As previously stated, no food is permitted on set. The same is true for snacking! The no-snacking restriction is strictly enforced, and fans and audience members are instructed to bring their own food or snacks to eat before the event begins. There is also the option of purchasing food from adjacent restaurants. If you are discovered nibbling during the show, you may be asked to leave.

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No Snacks Allowed!

Hands Off! Only 1 Freebie Allowed

Everyone is well aware of Ellen’s generosity, not just to her visitors but also to her audience members. With all of the amazing products and free prizes, Ellen’s audience is regarded as one of the luckiest in the world. People can normally take home one freebie as a souvenir from the Ellen Store, although that is only on camera. However, there are rigorous regulations that must be followed; each member can only take home one freebie!

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Hands Off! Only 1 Freebie Allowed

No Black Or White Clothing Permitted

The Ellen DeGeneres program is intended to provide joy and happiness to everyone. As a result, a ‘happy clothing code’ would be included. People who appear on the show must dress nicely and wear vivid colors. Ellen has stated that wearing black or white is acceptable, but it must be coupled with something vibrant or colorful. You’re fine as long as you look fashionable!

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No Black Or White Clothing Permitted

The Show’s Details Are Kept Under Secret

When people go onto the set of The Ellen DeGeneres Show, they usually have a notion of what to expect: games, celebrity cameos, a heartwarming tale, and, of course, some type of surprise. The concept is that people do not know what will happen or who will appear until they arrive at the show. Essentially, much of it is kept secret because the producers want the program to have an element of surprise, which leads to increased excitement. However, many elements can change at any time, and they don’t want to disappoint anyone. Whatever the case, audience members will always have a great time!

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The Show’s Details Are Kept Under Secret

Clapping Is Choreographed As Well

As previously stated, Ellen’s program is all about being happy and cheerful, which is why there is a lot of music, singing, and dancing, all of which is choreographed. What else has been choreographed? The applause! So, if you thought the yelling, applauding, and cheering was entirely spontaneous, think again! The staff tells the audience exactly when to do what.

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Clapping Is Choreographed As Well

You Can’t Sell Your Tickets

It turns out that the old adage “money can’t buy happiness” isn’t true. People from all around the world will not be able to attend the live-action filming and will do anything they can to obtain a pair of tickets. However, we have some terrible news…if you intend to buy tickets from someone else, this is not possible. Tickets cannot even be auctioned off for charitable purposes. If your name is not on the ticket you bring, you will be sent home.

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You Can’t Sell Your Tickets

No Group Co-Ordination Outfits

With Ellen’s energy, you’d assume that anything goes when it comes to fashion. With all of these laws in place, there’s no way. If you and your friends decide to appear in matching or coordinated outfits, please be aware that this is prohibited and you may not be permitted to sit in the audience. Furthermore, despite the fact that Ellen has her own clothing brand, you are not able to wear any of it when the show is being recorded. Doesn’t that seem a little crazy?

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No Group Co-Ordination Outfits

Don’t Ask For An Autograph

Ellen will not sign her name for any of her audience members to remember. If you’re lucky, you might be able to sneak in a selfie–but only when asked. According to the staff, presenting her autograph to each individual would take hours due to time constraints. And we all know Ellen has no time for that. There are a lot of people in the audience, so autograph seekers, you’re out of luck!

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Don’t Ask For An Autograph

No Hugging

So, while Ellen is more than glad to hug celebrities she knows well, there are rigorous ‘no hugging’ guidelines in place for audience members. Guests are instructed to follow her lead, so if she doesn’t lean in for the embrace, you shouldn’t either. Many people have stated that she simply does not enjoy physical contact, so be prepared that you may be kicked out if you even attempt to touch her.

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No Hugging

Make Repeat Appearances

The lucky celebs whom Ellen adores are frequently featured on the show. Off-screen, these celebrities may appear to be her greatest buddies, but they are only close friends. Naturally, her wife, Portia, appears frequently on the show, as do many of her ‘inner circles’ pals, performers, and socialites. So, who has appeared on the show the most? To be honest, there are plenty, including Oprah Winfrey (of course), Justin Bieber, Jennifer Aniston, and the Kardashians.

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Make Repeat Appearances

You Don’t Follow The Rules – You’re Out!

Ellen is an expert at holding her calm and getting her way. She can not only direct conversations in the direction she desires, but she can also calmly call out those who do not behave appropriately. Ellen has imposed numerous rules and limitations on both her show’s viewers and her guests. And she’s made it obvious that if you don’t follow them, you’ll be kicked out!

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You Don’t Follow The Rules – You’re Out!

Provide Complete Information About Your Personal Life

Many of Ellen’s guests trust her because she knows them personally. She always attempts to learn as much about their personal life as she can, whether it’s through an interview or a game. Whether it’s the difficulties of newlywed life or the inside scoop amongst the Kardashian sisters, attendees should be prepared for everything.

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Provide Complete Information About Your Personal Life

Respect Ellen’s Workplace

While these guidelines may appear ludicrous to some, they are totally understandable to others. After all, this is Ellen’s domain, and she has the authority to demand decent behavior and respect…we all know how insane certain fans can be. We’ve all seen the too exuberant lady who ends up getting too rowdy, or the strange guy in the back with his mother’s face on his t-shirt. So the moral of the story is, if you’re lucky enough to secure a ticket to the show, don’t be a fool by misbehaving.

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Respect Ellen’s Workplace