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. She gained recognition on Star Search in 1984 before transitioning to film and television. Her daytime talk show, The Rosie O'Donnell Show (1996-2002), earned her Daytime Emmy Awards and the nickname "Queen of Nice" due to her positive demeanor and philanthropic endeavors.

Sections (5)

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

1997: PR Blunder and Mouthwash Promotion

In 1997, Procter & Gamble's "unkissable" designation of Rosie O'Donnell for Scope mouthwash was named a PR blunder. O'Donnell then partnered with Listerine, who donated to charity for every kiss she received on her show.

April 19, 1999: Gun Control Advocacy

On April 19, 1999, during her talk show broadcast, O'Donnell became an outspoken supporter of gun control following the Columbine shootings and stated strong opinions on gun ownership.

May 1999: Interview with Tom Selleck on Gun Control

In May 1999, O'Donnell interviewed Tom Selleck on her show about his involvement with the NRA, leading to a tense discussion.

1999: Contract Discontinuation with Kmart

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

March 14, 2002: Diane Sawyer Interview

On March 14, 2002, Diane Sawyer interviewed Rosie O'Donnell on PrimeTime Thursday where O'Donnell discussed her life and her views on Florida's ban on gay adoption. She also spoke about two gay men in Florida who faced having a foster child removed from their home because of this law.

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September 2002: Resignation from Rosie's Magazine

In September 2002, Rosie O'Donnell quit Rosie's McCall's magazine following a dispute over editorial control, stating her vision was crucial for the magazine's branding.

February 24, 2003: Comments on Catholic Church Scandal

On February 24, 2003, O'Donnell commented on Phil Donahue's talk show regarding the sexual abuse scandal in the Catholic archdiocese of Boston.

2003: Magazine's End and Lawsuits

In 2003, Rosie magazine folded, leading to breach of contract lawsuits between Rosie O'Donnell and the publishers. A trial ensued, receiving considerable press coverage, and was eventually dismissed by the judge Ira Gammerman of the New York Supreme Court in Manhattan.

February 26, 2004: Marriage to Kelli Carpenter

On February 26, 2004, Rosie O'Donnell married Kelli Carpenter in San Francisco. The marriage was a statement against President George W. Bush's support for the Federal Marriage Amendment.

August 2004: Marriage Voided

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

November 2006: Comments on Kelly Ripa and Clay Aiken Incident

In November 2006, Rosie commented on Kelly Ripa's complaints about Clay Aiken on Live with Regis and Kelly and perceived Kelly's comments to be homophobic.

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December 5, 2006: Imitation of Chinese Newscasters

On December 5, 2006, Rosie O'Donnell used a series of 'ching chongs' to imitate newscasters in China, drawing criticism from Vanessa Hua of the San Francisco Chronicle.

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, accusing Trump of using the situation for publicity. O'Donnell questioned Trump's moral authority due to his past marital affairs and bankruptcies, leading to a media feud where Trump threatened to sue O'Donnell.

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2006: Moderator on The View

In 2006, O'Donnell became a moderator on The View, leading to controversies and public feuds.

April 19, 2007: Discussion on Abortion and Supreme Court

On April 19, 2007, the panel discussed the Supreme Court's ruling in Gonzales v. Carhart. O'Donnell questioned the role of Catholics on the Supreme Court and separation of church and state. Her statements were deemed anti-Catholic by conservative commentators.

May 17, 2007: Questioning the Iraq War

On May 17, 2007, Rosie O'Donnell questioned the Iraq War and the high number of Iraqi civilian deaths, leading to criticism and accusations of comparing American soldiers to terrorists.

May 23, 2007: Heated Discussion with Elisabeth Hasselbeck

On May 23, 2007, a heated discussion ensued between Rosie O'Donnell and Elisabeth Hasselbeck, with O'Donnell feeling betrayed by Hasselbeck's unwillingness to defend her. This contributed to O'Donnell's decision to leave The View.

2007: Controversies on The View

In 2007, O'Donnell's controversial run as moderator on The View continued, marked by public disputes, including one with Donald Trump.

2007: Controversial Opinion on 9/11 Attacks

In 2007, Rosie O'Donnell voiced her controversial opinion concerning the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, questioning NIST conclusions and alleging U.S. government involvement.