With the upcoming “Ellen” episode airing tomorrow, there has been much comment and criticism on whether or not prime time television should air such “controversial” material.The sitcom will guest star Oprah Winfrey as Ellen’s therapist, Laura Dern, as Ellen’s potential romantic interest, and the usual cast of Ellen’s friends.From these characters, a plot will ensue revealing Ellen’s sexual preferences, with her usual comical antics.But all things aside, no one can ignore the attention “Ellen” is receiving from something as private as sexuality.What is so unnerving to the vast public about this television show to spawn such ridiculous controversy?This certainly isn’t the first time when a gay man or woman has appeared in a television show. For example, the character Matt, played by Doug Savant, on “Melrose Place” has been on the show from its birth, generating little if any noticeable controversy.But “Ellen” is the first show with a woman in the leading role who will reveal her sexuality on television.The question is not about Ellen revealing her sexual orientation on national television but rather what does this say about American society that it is so intolerant of a person straying from the norm.Granted, in a country which spouts “family values” as its politically correct flavor of the day, the controversy might not surprise many who view “Ellen”‘s lesbian preferences as deviating from “traditional norms.”Advertising, which pays to promote their products on ABC’s Wednesday 8:30 time slot, has probably generated the most attention. With Wendy’s withdrawing their ads and local ABC affiliates making editorial decisions about gay advertisements, it is little wonder that Ellen’s sexuality could be the marketing coup of the century.Even though the show might have lost some potential advertisers, the attention it has generated could not be bad for “Ellen”‘s popularity.And with sweeps week rapidly approaching, “Ellen” might be experiencing some new-found luster with ABC executives.So, perhaps the question is should a person’s sexuality be so blatantly used to promote a show?Maybe the Nielsens will shed some light on how valuable it is to have a show make a statement like “Ellen” is doing.