Reel 6711

(Wed., ABC)

(A&E) docu.

Ellen (Wed., ABC) Considering all the things it could have been—coy, cloying, self-congratulatory or just plain silly—Ellen's coming-out episode is a triumph. It's hilarious, cathartic and celebratory all at once. Sensing a yen for a new acquaintance (played by guest star Laura Dern), beleaguered Ellen Morgan overcompensates, single-mindedly pursuing "manwoman sex." Later, she gamely visits a gay coffeehouse. "Ellen!" a pal yelps. "Eight o'clock! There's a lesbian staring at you!" The episode takes gay humor, which can often have an exclusionary, inside feel, and makes it everybody's humor. My score: 9

(A&E) docu.

Episode (Wed, ABC) Considering all the things it could have been—my, crying self-examination or just plain silly—Ellen's coming-out episode is a triumph. It's hilarious, emotional and celebrating all at once. Sending a yen for a new acquaintance (played by guest star Laura Dern), he longed for Ellen Morgan over compassionate, single-mindedly pursuing "non-woman sex." Later, she gently visits a gay coffeehouse. "Ellen" and yelps, "Right on! There's a lesbian sitting at you!" The episode takes gay humor, which can often have an exclusionary, insider feel, and makes it everyone's humor. Episode 9

docu.

(Wed., ABC) Considering all the things it could have been—coy, cloying, self-congratulatory or just plain silly—Ellen's coming-out episode is a triumph. It's hilarious, cathartic and celebratory all at once. Sensing a yen for a new acquaintance (played by guest star Laura Dern), beleaguered Ellen Morgan overcompensates, single-mindedly pursuing "man-woman sex." Later, she gamely visits a gay coffeehouse. "Ellen!" a pal yelps. "Eight o'clock! There's a lesbian staring at you!" The episode takes gay humor, which can often have an exclusionary, inside feel, and makes it everybody's humor. My score: 9

(A&E) docu.

(Wed., ABC)

(A&E) docu.