Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Rosie O'Donnell

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Rosie O'Donnell.

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

1997: Scope Promotion Backlash

In 1997, Procter & Gamble's designation of O'Donnell as "unkissable" in a promotion for Scope mouthwash was awarded top prize as a PR blunder. O'Donnell then partnered with Listerine, who donated to charity every time a guest kissed her, raising over $350,000.

April 19, 1999: Gun Control Advocacy

On April 19, 1999, during her talk show, Rosie O'Donnell advocated for stricter gun control, stating her controversial views on gun ownership.

May 1999: Interview with Tom Selleck

In May 1999, Rosie O'Donnell interviewed Tom Selleck on her talk show, questioning him about his involvement with the National Rifle Association of America (NRA) and his views on assault weapons.

1999: Contract Discontinuation with Kmart

Later in 1999, Rosie O'Donnell discontinued her contract with Kmart as their spokesperson, amid controversy over her gun control stance and Kmart's sale of firearms.

March 14, 2002: Diane Sawyer Interview

On March 14, 2002, Diane Sawyer interviewed O'Donnell in an episode of PrimeTime Thursday. O'Donnell chose to talk to Sawyer because she wanted an investigative piece on Florida's ban on gay adoption.

February 24, 2003: Comments on Catholic Church

On February 24, 2003, during an episode of Phil Donahue's talk show, Rosie O'Donnell made controversial comments about the Catholic Church and the sexual abuse scandal in the Archdiocese of Boston.

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 26, 2004: Marriage to Kelli Carpenter

On February 26, 2004, Rosie O'Donnell married Kelli Carpenter in San Francisco. This decision was motivated by then-President George W. Bush's stance on the Federal Marriage Amendment and Rosie's desire to advocate for gay marriage.

November 2006: Commentary on Kelly Ripa and Clay Aiken Incident

In November 2006, Rosie O'Donnell commented on Kelly Ripa's complaints about Clay Aiken on Live with Regis and Kelly, sparking a discussion about homophobia and the context of the incident.

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December 5, 2006: Imitation of Chinese Newscasters

On December 5, 2006, Rosie O'Donnell imitated Chinese newscasters using a series of "ching chongs", which led to disappointment expressed by Vanessa Hua from the San Francisco Chronicle, considering O'Donnell's support for LGBT rights.

December 2006: Criticism of Donald Trump

In December 2006, Rosie O'Donnell criticized Donald Trump for reinstating Miss USA Tara Conner after she violated pageant guidelines. O'Donnell questioned Trump's moral authority, citing his marital affairs and bankruptcies. This led to a media blitz by Trump threatening to sue O'Donnell, although he never did.

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2006: Moderator on The View

In 2006, Rosie O'Donnell began a controversial run as the moderator on the daytime talk show The View.

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April 19, 2007: Discussion on Abortion Ban Act

On April 19, 2007, The View panel, including Rosie O'Donnell, discussed the Supreme Court's ruling in Gonzales v. Carhart, leading to controversial statements about religion and politics.

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May 17, 2007: Questioning the Iraq War and U.S. Media Coverage

On May 17, 2007, Rosie O'Donnell questioned the Iraq War and criticized the U.S. media's coverage compared to the rest of the world, leading to heated exchanges with co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck. O'Donnell rhetorically asked who the terrorists were considering the civilian deaths in Iraq.

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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2007: 9/11 Conspiracy Theory

In 2007, O'Donnell announced her opinion concerning the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, in which she questioned the NIST conclusions, and alleged the U.S. government's involvement in the attacks.

2007: Controversial Run on The View

In 2007, Rosie O'Donnell's controversial run as moderator on The View continued, marked by a public feud with Donald Trump and on-air disputes regarding the Bush administration's policies with the Iraq War.

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