Ellen thanks Obama for his ‘courage and compassion’ in sentimental send-off

Ellen DeGeneres likely planted the seed for her 21st People’s Choice Award win at next year’s ceremony.

The beloved talk show host honored President Obama and the first lady with a touching tribute during an episode of The Ellen DeGeneres Show airing Thursday.

“Today is the last day that Barack Obama will be our president,” the comedian said while gazing into the camera from her set. “I want to personally thank him for changing my life. I am a legally married woman because of him and so is my wife (actress Portia de Rossi).”

The outgoing POTUS told ABC News that "same-sex couples should be able to get married" in 2012.

“His courage and compassion created equality for everyone,” DeGeneres continued. “He moved us forward and made more happen in the past eight years than I ever dreamed possible. I love him. I love Michelle.”

DeGeneres treated her audience to a montage of the Obamas appearances on her show that included their sweet (and sometimes digitally enhanced) dance moves, the time Barack told Michelle, “I Obamacare about you more than you even know,” and Ellen and the first lady’s unforgettable CVS shopping trip.

“Thank you for everything President Obama and First Lady Michelle,” DeGeneres said in closing. “We will miss you so much.”

Michelle Obama’s touching last Instagram posts as first lady require tissues