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

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 18, 2026

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

Rosie O'Donnell is an American comedian, actress, and talk show host. She gained prominence through Star Search in 1984, leading to various television and film roles. O'Donnell hosted the successful daytime talk show, The Rosie O'Donnell Show, from 1996 to 2002, earning the moniker "Queen of Nice" and recognition for her philanthropy. The show garnered multiple Daytime Emmy Awards.

Sections (5)

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

March 17, 1973: Death of Rosie's Mother

On March 17, 1973, four days before Rosie O'Donnell's eleventh birthday, her mother, Roseann, died from breast cancer.

1999: Contract with Kmart Discontinued

Later in 1999, Rosie O'Donnell discontinued her contract with Kmart as their spokeswoman due to controversy over her gun control stance.

2000: Staphylococcal Infection

In the summer of 2000, Rosie O'Donnell suffered a staphylococcal infection after she accidentally cut a finger, which incapacitated her for weeks and nearly led to her hand being amputated.

2001: Mia Removed From Home

In 2001, the State of Florida removed Mia from Rosie O'Donnell and Kelli Carpenter's home, and O'Donnell has since worked extensively to bring an end to the Florida law prohibiting same-sex family adoption.

September 2002: O'Donnell quits Rosie magazine

In September 2002, Rosie O'Donnell quit Rosie magazine following a dispute over editorial control.

2003: Rosie magazine folded and lawsuits

In 2003, Rosie magazine folded. Later in 2003, O'Donnell and the publishers sued each other for breach of contract. The trial received considerable press coverage, with O'Donnell apologizing for comments made to a former colleague.

February 8, 2004: Taboo closed on Broadway

On February 8, 2004, the musical Taboo closed on Broadway after about 100 performances and "mostly bad" reviews.

August 2004: Marriage Voided

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

May 23, 2007: Heated exchange with Elisabeth Hasselbeck on The View

On May 23, 2007, a heated discussion occurred on The View between Rosie O'Donnell and Elisabeth Hasselbeck. O'Donnell felt betrayed by Hasselbeck's perceived unwillingness to defend her from criticisms regarding her earlier statements about the Iraq War. This led to hurt feelings and a sense of betrayal.

May 25, 2007: O'Donnell and ABC agree to end contract early

On May 25, 2007, Rosie O'Donnell and ABC agreed to cut short her contract agreement, leading to her departure from The View. O'Donnell cited feeling set up by the show's director and producer as a contributing factor to her decision.