Challenges in the Life of Rosie O'Donnell in a Detailed Timeline

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Rosie O'Donnell. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Rosie O'Donnell is a multifaceted American entertainer, known as a talk show host, comedian, and actress. She gained initial recognition on Star Search in 1984 before transitioning to television and film roles. O'Donnell achieved widespread fame as the host of The Rosie O'Donnell Show from 1996 to 2002, earning Daytime Emmy Awards and the moniker "Queen of Nice" due to her positive demeanor and charitable work. Her career encompasses stand-up comedy, acting, and hosting, establishing her as a prominent figure in American entertainment.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

March 17, 1973: Death of O'Donnell's Mother

On March 17, 1973, four days before O'Donnell's 11th birthday, her mother died from breast cancer, an event that significantly impacted her life.

1973: Death of Roseann Teresa O'Donnell

In 1973, Roseann Teresa O'Donnell, Rosie O'Donnell's mother, passed away, impacting Rosie's early life.

May 2000: Bodyguard Applied for Firearm Permit

In May 2000, Rosie O'Donnell's bodyguard applied for a concealed firearm permit due to threats against her and her family.

September 2000: Rosie's McCall's Magazine Launch

In September 2000, Rosie O'Donnell launched Rosie's McCall's magazine as a competitor to Oprah Winfrey's O magazine. In the September 2000 issue, Rosie shared her lifelong struggle with depression and decision to start medication.

September 2002: O'Donnell Quits Rosie's McCall's

In September 2002, O'Donnell quit Rosie's McCall's magazine due to a dispute over editorial control, stating that her name and brand must align with her vision.

2003: Brings Taboo to Broadway

In 2003, O'Donnell brought the musical Taboo to Broadway, hiring Charles Busch to rewrite the book. The show closed after about 100 performances and "mostly bad" reviews.

2003: Rosie Magazine Folds and Lawsuits Begin

In 2003, Rosie magazine folded. Later that year, O'Donnell and the publishers sued each other for breach of contract. The case was dismissed by the judge, Ira Gammerman of the New York Supreme Court in Manhattan, ruling that neither side should receive damages.

February 8, 2004: Taboo Closes on Broadway

On February 8, 2004, the musical Taboo, which Rosie O'Donnell brought to Broadway, closed after about 100 performances.

August 2004: Marriage Voided

In August 2004, Rosie O'Donnell's marriage to Kelli Carpenter was voided by the California Supreme Court.

May 23, 2007: Heated Discussion with Elisabeth Hasselbeck

On May 23, 2007, a heated discussion ensued between Rosie O'Donnell and Elisabeth Hasselbeck on The View, stemming from O'Donnell's perception that Hasselbeck was unwilling to defend her from criticisms. This disagreement contributed to O'Donnell's decision to leave the show.

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May 25, 2007: Agreement to Cut Short The View Contract

On May 25, 2007, Rosie O'Donnell and ABC agreed to cut short her contract agreement on The View. This followed heated arguments and O'Donnell's feeling that the show's production was setting her up negatively. Her arguments with Hasselbeck brought the show its best ratings ever. O'Donnell was replaced by Whoopi Goldberg as the moderator.

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August 2012: Heart Attack

In mid-August 2012, Rosie O'Donnell suffered a heart attack and had a stent inserted. She later promoted a whole foods, plant-based diet to reverse her heart disease.

2014: Return to The View

In 2014, Rosie O'Donnell returned to The View, leaving after a brief five-month run due to personal issues.

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February 6, 2015: Second Exit from The View

On February 6, 2015, Rosie O'Donnell confirmed her second exit from The View, citing health reasons and the need to focus on her personal life.

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February 2015: Filing for Divorce

In February 2015, Rosie O'Donnell filed for divorce from Michelle Rounds after two years of marriage.

August 2015: Daughter's Disappearance

In August 2015, Rosie O'Donnell tweeted that her 17-year-old daughter, Chelsea, had gone missing from their home in Nyack, New York, along with her therapy dog.

September 15, 2017: Death of Michelle Rounds

On September 15, 2017, Michelle Rounds, Rosie O'Donnell's ex-wife, died by suicide.

September 2024: Chelsea's Arrest in Wisconsin

In September 2024, Rosie O'Donnell's daughter, Chelsea, was arrested in Marinette County, Wisconsin on multiple charges, including child neglect, domestic abuse, maintaining a drug trafficking facility, and drug possession, after her child was found in unsafe living conditions.

October 2024: Second Arrest of Chelsea

In October 2024, Chelsea, Rosie O'Donnell's daughter, faced another arrest in Oconto County, leading to charges including bail jumping and drug possession.