Rosie O’Donnell captivated audiences once again as she continued her guest hosting role on ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ during the week of August 18. Known for her sharp wit and engaging stage presence, O’Donnell isn’t shy about addressing her complicated relationship with former President Donald Trump, whom she referred to in her monologue with characteristic sarcasm.
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On the Tuesday show, the comedian shared her gratitude for her return to network television, saying, “I’m so grateful to be filling in for Jimmy and to be hosting a talk show on network TV once again.” She noted the surreal nature of her current position, expressing, “all of a sudden I’m re-famous,” a nod to her long-standing feud with Trump.
O’Donnell’s playful jibe at the former President, whom she affectionately dubbed “Oompa J. Loompa,” was a highlight of the segment. She quipped, “You brought me back, just like you did with fascism and the measles,” referencing Trump’s widely discussed political history alongside a humorous anecdote about his recent escapades—specifically a story about him hiding in a catering truck for security reasons.
Continuing with a lighthearted approach, O’Donnell introduced a young talent to the audience—a three-year-old internet star named Leona, who performed a rendition of “Let It Go” from Disney’s *Frozen.* This charming segment contrasted the more politically charged atmosphere surrounding her previous comments about Trump.
The week leading up to this episode marked a significant period for O’Donnell, having returned to the talk show scene after a hiatus. She acknowledged Trump directly during her initial monologue, teasing, “Hi, I know you’re watching,” a clear indication of her ongoing rivalry with the businessman-turned-politician.
O’Donnell’s guest hosting responsibilities extended throughout the week, concluding her run on August 20. She followed other notable guest-hosts including Tiffany Haddish, Colman Domingo, Ike Barinholtz, and Anthony Anderson, while Kimmel took his traditional summer break. O’Donnell expressed her appreciation for the opportunity, saying she admired Kimmel’s “tenacity and strength.”
In a feature for *People* magazine, O’Donnell reflected on her long-standing and often bizarre dynamic with Trump. With nearly two decades of open conflict, O’Donnell called it “very strange to have supposedly the most powerful man in the world be your arch nemesis.” She discussed how Trump’s remarks about her used to hold a shock value that has since become almost absurd given the public’s familiarity with their feud.
“The idea that a stand-up comic could mock a reality TV star, who then becomes the President, and won’t stop mentioning her for 20 years sounds like a Hollywood script,” she mused. “Yet, it has been my reality, which is quite surreal.”
As O’Donnell wraps up her guest hosting week, her blend of humour and commentary continues to resonate with audiences, reminding viewers of the often unexpected intersections of celebrity, politics and personal rivalry. With her return, she not only reclaims her space in the spotlight but also invites viewers to reflect on the dynamics between public figures in a light-hearted manner, all whilst maintaining her distinctive comedic edge.
‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ airs every weeknight at 11:35 PM ET on ABC, and O’Donnell’s week-long stint promises to refresh the show’s usual format with her insightful takes and vibrant energy. As summer gives way to autumn, her appearances have notably reignited discussions around her notable past and present interactions with key figures in the political sphere.