In the early 90s, Ellen was the star of an ensemble TV sitcom patterned after a Seinfeld episode which was retooled by ABC into the sitcom Ellen and lasted four seasons during which time she garnered two Emmy nominations. In April 1997, Ellen's character became the first lead in sitcom history to openly admit being gay. The Ellen episode generated high ratings and considerable controversy. An ABC affiliate in Birmingham, Alabama, refused to air the episode. Some of the show's sponsors withdrew advertisements and the show was cancelled.