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Ellen DeGeneres spent a heartfelt moment honoring Jane Goodall, to say the lives of the much-feted primatologist and her gigantic efforts for conservation and women in science. An excerpt from a past interview between Goodall and DeGeneres regarding the Goodall work was included in the post from DeGeneres’s account. Tributes for Goodall poured in from every corner of the earth at her passing.
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In the heart-wrenching video, Ellen DeGeneres welcomes Dr. Jane Goodall, expressing sincere wishes for good health on the occasion of her 85th birthday. The talk quickly strayed into the central passion of Goodall’s life. “I’ve loved animals since I was a little kid,” she said, recalling how after reading “Dr. Dolittle” and watching “Tarzan,” she supposedly wanted to live with wild animals in Africa. She said that Goodall’s mother had been her only supporter, and nowadays, Goodall passes on her mother’s advice: “If you really want this, you’ll have to work really hard, take advantage of all opportunities, but don’t give up.”
Goodall went on to explain how she and her then-two companions were among the first three women sent by Louis Leakey to study great apes because he felt that women were more patient and observant. She related this to evolution, indicating that women are naturally tuned into “the wants and needs of a non-speaking little creature.” The conversation then gravitated towards the very sad topic of the extinction of species. Goodall said passionately that she did not want her great-grandchildren to learn about animals such as chimps and elephants just from books—that countries were destroying their own future.
Words of praise entered DeGeneres’ comments feed alongside expressions of grief. Goodall is described as “a true legend with a priceless legacy,” a fitting tribute to the esteem in which people held her life and work. Another comment said with poignancy, “She recently said dying would be her next adventure. No doubt she’s on it with a kind heart full of hope.” That reflection on Goodall’s own musing about death really struck a chord for many of the readers, and it also brought to the forefront her ever-glowing optimism.
The fans began coming forward, sharing their own personal connections with the icon. “I share my birthday with an absolute legend. Rest well Dr. Goodall,” stated one person. The enthusiasm to continue work was striking from one fans who said “The world just lost the best spokesperson for wildlife… What a legacy. Let’s keep it going!” This outcry stands as proof to how many feel compelled to carry her torch.
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Together, these responses paint a picture of a woman who crossed the boundary of science and into universal inspiration. She was described as “gentle, loving, calm, and a true fighter for conservation,” while another summed up the feelings completely, “One of THE Greatest Powerhouses for Earth & Animal Rights to ever Rock the Planet.” Ellen DeGeneres’s comment, understated as it was, said it all: “Thank you Jane for all the good you’ve done. You broke barriers for women all over the world. Ellen has also recently been in the news for other reasons, including a memorable segment on her show. In a lighter moment, she joked that she wants to reincarnate as Melissa McCarthy’s child in her next life. Fans also enjoyed seeing her reunite with Sean Hayes for some hilarious banter.