Ellen: Big Bird Costumes, Mini iPad & Talia Castellano Update

Ellen: ‘Sexy Big Bird’ Costume

Ellen began her show with what is “clearly the most important issue facing our country today.” Nope, it’s not the economy, or homeland security, or women’s rights: it’s Big Bird! The beloved Sesame Street character recently became caught in the crossfire between President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney when Romney said that he would end funding for PBS.

Because of this, Big Bird is more popular than ever, and now “Sexy Big Bird” is one of the year’s most popular costumes for Halloween. It’s pretty disturbing, and Ellen believes that making beloved childrens’ characters appear so trashy just isn’t right.

“The only character on Sesame Street who should look trashy is Oscar, because he lives in a trash can,” Ellen said. Take a look below at more of her thoughts on too-sexy Halloween costumes.

Ellen: Lisa in Haunted Hallway

Also take a look at the terrible fright that Ellen gave one audience member, Lisa, when she led her into the Haunted Hallway!

Ellen: Mini iPad and Facebook Updates

Ellen had some technology news to share. Apple is apparently developing a ‘Mini iPad,’ and Ellen just so happened to have a protoype! The audience was pretty excited, until they realized that it was a sticker placed on Ellen’s finger. “Woops, there goes $500!” she said as she ‘accidentally’ dropped it.

Additionally, Facebook is making some changes to its format. You already know about the ‘Like’ button, but now, you can also click the ‘Want’ button in order to share new products. Other buttons will include the “I like your baby, but I don’t need to see 800 pictures of it,” button!

Ellen: Message For Talia Castellano

Weeks ago, Ellen had the chance to meet a truly inspiring young lady, Talia Castellano. Talia is a 13-year-old cancer patient whom Ellen made an honorary Cover Girl. Unfortunately, Talia has not been doing too well, and is currently in the hospital. Ellen took a moment to let Talia know that everyone is thinking of her and sending her lots of love.

I know I speak for all Ellen fans when I second that notion! Please feel better soon, Talia!

Ellen: Thomas and Brittany

Ellen also had the chance to meet two audience members, Thomas and Brittany, and give them a huge surprise. They are both big Ellen fans and so is their son, three-year-old Brody. All on his own, he decided that he wanted to participate in an Ellen Dance Dare, and then send in the video to the show. The clips of Brody dancing were unbelievably cute, with a capital C!

But while they maintain a fun, positive attitude on the outside, Thomas and Brittany’s family are struggling through some tough hardships. They also have a six-week-old baby, Channing, and recently lost their home. They moved into a two bedroom town home, but they do not have the money to furnish it. Thomas is currently making just $4 an hour as a server, and they’ve discussed pawning Brittany’s wedding rings just to pay their bills.

Thomas and Brittany both love Ellen because her laughter and positivity help them forget about their financial troubles–even if just for an hour a day. So because Ellen has a generous heart when it comes to her fans, she decided to help the young family out. Thomas and Brittany were shocked when Ellen presented them with a $20,000 Ikea Gift Card to help them furnish their home. Below you’ll find more on the amazing surprise.