The Ellen DeGeneres Show Season 7 Episode 24 Jason Bateman, Judy Shepard
- October 9, 2009
Jason Bateman, star of the hit Netflix show "Ozark," and Judy Shepard, an LGBTQ+ activist and the mother of Matthew Shepard, visited the set of The Ellen Degeneres Show for season 7 episode 24. Ellen started off the episode by praising Jason for his work on "Ozark" and jokingly asking if he was tired of filming in the Ozarks yet. Jason responds that it's actually quite beautiful there and that he's enjoyed filming there over the years.
The conversation then shifts to Judy Shepard, who lost her son Matthew to a hate crime in 1998. She speaks about the Matthew Shepard Foundation, which works to promote acceptance and equality for LGBTQ+ individuals. Judy also talks about her work with the Human Rights Campaign and shares stories of how she's seen progress in LGBTQ+ rights over the years, but acknowledges that there is still much work to be done. Ellen and Judy then discuss the importance of education and understanding when it comes to promoting acceptance and fighting hate.
The topic then turns back to Jason, who shares a hilarious story about a fan who thought he was Conan O'Brien. He then talks about his experience directing an episode of "Ozark" and how he had a "get out of jail free" card to make mistakes because he was also acting in the scene. Ellen also asks Jason about his experience working on "Arrested Development" and how he balances his roles as both an actor and director.
Next, Ellen brings out a surprise guest for Jason - his father, Kent Bateman. Kent comes out to the set and shares stories about Jason's childhood and how proud he is of his son's success. The two also discuss their shared love for horses.
The show ends with Ellen and Judy bonding over their mutual love for baseball and attending games together. Ellen and Jason also take a fun photo with Judy and her husband, and Ellen encourages viewers to learn more about the Matthew Shepard Foundation and support their work.
Overall, season 7 episode 24 of The Ellen Degeneres Show was a heartfelt and entertaining episode featuring interviews with Jason Bateman and Judy Shepard. The topics discussed on the show ranged from LGBTQ+ rights to directing and acting, and even included a surprise appearance from Jason's father. The episode was a great reminder of the importance of acceptance, understanding, and family.