Rosie O’Donnell has taken the reins as guest host for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” during Kimmel’s brief hiatus, with her stint commencing on Monday, August 17. The comedian has promised to bring her unique flair to the show, which airs in the UK on weekdays at 11:35 p.m. ET.
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In her opening monologue, O’Donnell wasted no time in addressing President Donald Trump, whom she referred to with a playful jab. “I’ve been living in Ireland for the past two years because of Mango Mussolini,” she quipped, alluding to her reasons for moving abroad. With a pointed reference to Project 2025, she shared her decision to relocate to Ireland, a country she described as one where the populace is prone to drinking, irrespective of political leadership.
O’Donnell’s humorous anecdotes continued as she recounted a conversation with her then-11-year-old child about their move. She impersonated her child, Clay, explaining to classmates: “I’m very sorry, I won’t be able to graduate sixth grade with you. I’m being forced to move to another country because the president of the United States hates my mother.” She added with a smile, “But in all fairness, I believe my mother hates him more.”
The comedian also delivered a friendly wave to the cameras, addressing Trump directly: “Hi, I know you’re watching!” O’Donnell’s boldness in engaging with the president visibly excited the audience, who welcomed her with applause and chants of “ROS-IE,” a nostalgic echo of her past hosting days.
Reflecting on her return to television, O’Donnell shared her thoughts on how times have changed since she last hosted a show nearly 30 years ago. “Things were a little different back then,” she remarked, recalling her title as the “Queen of Nice.” She noted that while the ’90s were marked by major global events and challenges, today’s climate feels surprisingly different—albeit loaded with its own complexities.
During her forthcoming week of hosting duties, O’Donnell aims to entertain viewers while regaling them with stories from her life in Ireland, where she and her son relocated in January 2025. The comedic host’s distinctive style promises to provide a refreshing twist to the late-night format.
O’Donnell’s relationship with Trump has been a contentious one, with the comedian having been the target of the former president’s ridicule for over two decades. In a recent interview, she expressed the peculiarity of having Trump as a longstanding adversary. “It’s very strange to have supposedly the most powerful man in the world be your arch nemesis,” she said, highlighting the absurdity of her situation.
She mused on how unusual it is for a stand-up comic to find herself in a decades-long feud with a reality television star who ascended to the presidency. The peculiar dynamics of this relationship have proven to be both entertaining and surreal, contributing to the ongoing narrative of American political life.
O’Donnell’s guest hosting role is part of a series of notable figures filling in for Kimmel, following a well-received lineup that includes Tiffany Haddish and Colman Domingo. Expressing her appreciation for Kimmel, O’Donnell remarked on his tenacity and strength, indicating her excitement at the opportunity to step into his shoes, if only for a brief period.
As “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” airs each weeknight, audiences can look forward to O’Donnell’s spirited contributions, anticipated to conclude with her final appearance on August 20. Whether through her comedic insights or candid reflections, Rosie O’Donnell’s guest hosting promises a lively engagement for viewers both old and new.