**Rosie O’Donnell Considers Return to *The View*, Reflects on Historic Feud with Elisabeth Hasselbeck**
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In a candid conversation during a recent episode of *Watch What Happens Live*, Rosie O’Donnell, who made waves as a co-host on *The View* from 2006 to 2007, expressed some intriguing thoughts about a potential return to the programme. Fans have been curious about whether the outspoken talk-show host would consider guest hosting again, especially given her tumultuous past on the show.

During the broadcast on 18 June, O’Donnell, now 64, light-heartedly indicated her willingness to step in as a guest host. “I would be up to guest host, but they haven’t asked me,” O’Donnell said, accompanied by a chuckle. This open-ended response has sparked speculation about the show’s direction and whether its producers are considering a reunion with the outspoken personality.
The topic of her former co-host, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, arose when an audience member inquired about Hasselbeck’s recent weeklong return to *The View* in March. O’Donnell did not hold back her thoughts, confirming she had indeed tuned in. “You know, it’s interesting in the time of [President Donald] Trump, I think she’s the perfect person they want on TV spouting their rhetoric,” she commented, demonstrating her characteristic candour on matters of political conversation.
O’Donnell’s memories of her time on *The View* remain marked by a particularly memorable and heated split-screen argument with Hasselbeck about the Iraq War in 2007. When host Andy Cohen pressed her on whether she still harboured annoyance over the incident, O’Donnell replied firmly, “Yeah, I’m still annoyed. Believe me, a mommy knows how to hold a grudge.” This revelation highlights the lasting impact that the feud has had on both women.
The simmering tension between O’Donnell and Hasselbeck was reignited in late 2025 when O’Donnell discussed the infamous split-screen episode in an interview with an Australian radio show. She claimed it had been deliberately staged by producer Bill Geddie, a point of contention that Hasselbeck has vocally denied. “Our producer [was] not an on-the-fly kind of guy,” O’Donnell stated, asserting that the chaotic moment had been orchestrated in advance.
In response, Hasselbeck took to social media, urging O’Donnell to stop what she termed “the lying” and suggesting that doing so would lead to a sense of freedom for the both of them. “And even maybe if you don’t stop, I still forgive you,” she added, highlighting the complexities of their relationship that appear to oscillate between animosity and a desire for resolution.
The ongoing feud saw further exchanges as O’Donnell replied on her own Instagram with a playful jab, stating “Nothing’s holding me back, Elisabeth. ‘Knock, knock. Who’s there? Rosie O’Donnell!’ I don’t hold back, sweetheart.” This spirited response exemplifies the dynamic they share, one that frequently draws the attention of fans and media alike.
Reflecting on the split-screen incident, Hasselbeck herself revisited the moment on *The View’s* companion podcast, *Behind the Table*. She remarked on the significant impact it had, stating, “It was a stressful day. It’s not a day that I love. It’s a significant day because I can look back at it now with maturity and think my position would be the same.” These statements echo the sentiments of many who have experienced high-pressure situations in the public eye.
The dramatic fallout from that infamous episode had immediate consequences for O’Donnell, who requested to be released from her contract with ABC just two days after it aired. At that time, she had only been employed by *The View* for eight months, but the contentious atmosphere proved too much for her to endure. It wasn’t until 2014 that she made a return to the show, only to leave once more in February 2015, citing health concerns following a heart attack.
As discussions unfold regarding the show’s future and the legacy of its co-hosts, O’Donnell’s reflections serve as a reminder of the tumultuous yet engaging history that shapes *The View*. Whether or not she makes a return, one thing is clear: O’Donnell’s presence in the talk show circuit continues to captivate audiences, and her take on current events remains as relevant as ever.
