AceShowbiz - Kevin Hart is defending Ellen DeGeneres amid accusations she turned her back on toxic workplace culture behind the scenes of her chat show.

The TV favourite has faced a barrage of criticism in recent weeks from staff members past and present, who have reported misconduct, racism and sexual harassment - and now some former fans are calling for her to be replaced.

Now the "Ride Along" star is voicing his support for the TV personality, taking to Instagram on Tuesday (04Aug20) to accuse those rallying against her of spreading "negativity."

"It's crazy to see my friend go thru what she's going thru publicly," Hart posted. "I have known Ellen for years and I can honestly say that she's one of the dopest people on the f**king planet. She has treated my family and my team with love and respect from day 1."

"The internet has become a crazy world of negativity... we are falling in love with peoples down fall. It's honestly sad... When did we get here? I stand by the ones that I know and that I love. Looking forward to the future where we get back to loving one another... this hate s**t has to stop. Hopefully it goes out of style soon..."

He added: "This post is not meant to disregard the feelings of others and their experiences... It's simply to show what my experiences have been with my friend. Love you for life Ellen..."

Ironically, Ellen stood by Hart after he stepped down as host of the 2019 Oscars following controversy linked to old tweets featuring derogatory homophobic words he had once posted. The chat show host tried to convince Kevin to reconsider his decision and front the Academy Awards.

Katy Perry has also come to Ellen's defence on Twitter, explaining to fans that the 62-year-old has always treated her with kindness.

"I know I can't speak for anyone else's experience besides my own but I want to acknowledge that I have only ever had positive takeaways from my time with Ellen & on the @theellenshow," Katy wrote. "I think we all have witnessed the light & continual fight for equality that she has brought to the world through her platform for decades."

Ellen has spoken out about the controversy and vowed to work with WarnerMedia bosses to "correct the issues" raised, like claims of intimidation and racism.