The only person in the world who could possibly say they've enjoyed more success than Ellen DeGeneres is Oprah. Not even Jerry Springer could hold a candle to the success DeGeneres has had either in profile or longevity. And being a talk show host wasn't even her first choice as a career!
DeGeneres first became famous as a comedian and comic actor. As long ago as 1982 she was named the Funniest Person in America by Showtime. That success led into her long running self-titled sitcom 'Ellen', which concluded with her character outing herself as gay. DeGeneres herself then confirmed she was homosexual shortly afterwards in a conversation with Oprah and has been heralded as an icon of the LGBT community ever since. Her bravery in coming out at a time where it was less socially acceptable to do so than today empowered a generation of young gay people, and it may be their support which has contributed to her wealth.