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 an American comedian, actress, and talk show host who gained prominence through 'Star Search' in 1984. She achieved widespread recognition hosting 'The Rosie O'Donnell Show' from 1996 to 2002, earning multiple Daytime Emmy Awards and the nickname 'Queen of Nice' for her positive and philanthropic image. Prior to her talk show success, she appeared in various TV and film roles, solidifying her place in the entertainment industry.

Sections (5)

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

1997: Response to 'Unkissable' Designation

In 1997, after Procter & Gamble designated Rosie O'Donnell as "unkissable" in a promotion for Scope mouthwash, she partnered with Warner-Lambert's competitor Listerine, who donated bottles of mouthwash to the studio audience and donated $1,000 to charity every time a hosted guest would kiss her, resulting in over $350,000 donated.

April 19, 1999: Advocating for Gun Control

On April 19, 1999, following the Columbine shootings, Rosie O'Donnell stated on her talk show that private gun ownership should be illegal.

May 1999: Interviewing Tom Selleck About NRA

In May 1999, Rosie O'Donnell interviewed Tom Selleck about his work for the National Rifle Association of America (NRA) on her talk show.

1999: Discontinuing Contract with Kmart

In 1999, Rosie O'Donnell discontinued her contract with Kmart due to controversy over her gun control stance and Kmart's sale of firearms.

May 2000: Bodyguard Applies 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.

March 14, 2002: Diane Sawyer Interview

On March 14, 2002, Diane Sawyer interviewed Rosie O'Donnell on PrimeTime Thursday about Florida's ban on gay adoption and O'Donnell's life. She discussed a case involving two gay men in Florida who were at risk of losing their foster child due to the state's ban on gay adoption.

September 2002: O'Donnell Quits Rosie's Magazine

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

February 24, 2003: Comments on Catholic Church Scandal

On February 24, 2003, Rosie O'Donnell commented on the sexual abuse scandal in the Catholic archdiocese of Boston and suggested the church should be sued.

2003: Rosie Magazine Folds and Lawsuits Begin

In 2003, Rosie magazine folded, and Rosie O'Donnell and the publishers sued each other for breach of contract. The trial received considerable press coverage.

February 26, 2004: Marriage to Kelli Carpenter

On February 26, 2004, Rosie O'Donnell married Kelli Carpenter in San Francisco after Mayor Gavin Newsom authorized same-sex marriage licenses. The marriage was a show of defiance against President George W. Bush's support for the Federal Marriage Amendment.

November 2006: Comments on Kelly Ripa and Clay Aiken

In November 2006, Rosie O'Donnell commented on Kelly Ripa's complaints about Clay Aiken on Live with Regis and Kelly, leading to a discussion about homophobia.

Loading Video...

December 5, 2006: Controversial Imitation of Chinese Newscasters

On December 5, 2006, Rosie O'Donnell imitated Chinese newscasters using a series of 'ching chongs,' drawing criticism from Vanessa Hua of the San Francisco Chronicle. Hua expressed disappointment given O'Donnell's LGBT rights advocacy.

December 2006: Criticism of Donald Trump

In December 2006, Rosie O'Donnell criticized Donald Trump for reinstating Miss USA Tara Conner after Conner violated pageant guidelines. O'Donnell questioned Trump's moral authority due to his marital affairs and bankruptcies, leading to a media feud and threats of a lawsuit from Trump.

2006: Moderator on The View

In 2006, Rosie O'Donnell became the moderator on the daytime talk show The View, which led to controversies and public feuds.

Loading Video...

April 19, 2007: Discussion on Abortion and Supreme Court

On April 19, 2007, Rosie O'Donnell discussed abortion and the Supreme Court's ruling in Gonzales v. Carhart on The View, leading to accusations of anti-Catholic bigotry.

Loading Video...

May 17, 2007: Controversial Statements on Iraq War

On May 17, 2007, Rosie O'Donnell questioned who the terrorists were in relation to the Iraq War, stating that if the United States invaded another country and killed citizens, the U.S. would be considered terrorists. This led to criticism from conservative commentators.

May 23, 2007: Heated Exchange with Elisabeth Hasselbeck

On May 23, 2007, Rosie O'Donnell had a heated discussion with Elisabeth Hasselbeck on The View, stemming from O'Donnell's perception that Hasselbeck was unwilling to defend her from criticisms regarding her statements about the Iraq War. O'Donnell felt betrayed, which contributed to her decision to leave the show.

2007: Comments on 9/11 Terrorist Attacks

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

2007: Controversies on The View

In 2007, Rosie O'Donnell experienced a controversial run as moderator on The View, including public disputes with Donald Trump regarding the Bush administration's policies on the Iraq War.

Loading Video...