White House Attacks Rosie O'Donnell After Her 'Kimmel' Guest-Hosting Week
Rosie O'Donnell spent a week guest-hosting 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' with sharp critiques of President Donald Trump, prompting a harsh response from the White House. O'Donnell used nicknames like 'Mango Mussolini' and performed a parody song, while the administration called her a 'nasty woman' and 'total slob.' The feud highlights their long-standing rivalry and O'Donnell's recent return from Ireland.
Key points
- O'Donnell guest-hosted 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' from Monday to Thursday while Kimmel was on vacation.
- The White House issued a statement calling O'Donnell a 'nasty woman' and 'total slob' with 'Trump Derangement Syndrome.'
- O'Donnell used various nicknames for Trump, including 'Mango Mussolini,' 'Oompa J. Loompa,' and 'Petty Roosevelt.'
- She performed a parody of 'Danny Boy' titled 'Donny Boy,' criticizing Trump's polls and policies.
- O'Donnell referenced White House aide Natalie Harp, drawing on recent media scrutiny of their relationship.
- The feud dates back to 2006, when O'Donnell criticized Trump on 'The View.'
Background
O'Donnell and Trump have a decades-old rivalry that began in 2006 when she criticized him on 'The View.' O'Donnell moved to Ireland in 2025 after Trump won the 2024 election, stating she would return when it was safe for equal rights. Her return to the U.S. for the 'Kimmel' gig marked a significant moment in their ongoing feud.
How outlets are covering it
Variety and Fox News reported on the White House's harsh response, with Fox News noting O'Donnell's use of the term 'orange Voldemort.' The Hollywood Reporter focused on O'Donnell's joke about Natalie Harp, while Mashable highlighted her musical parody. All sources agreed on the intensity of O'Donnell's critiques and the White House's strong reaction.
Why it matters
The incident underscores the ongoing tensions between political figures and late-night comedians, highlighting the role of satire in political discourse. It also reflects the broader cultural and political divide in the U.S., with O'Donnell's return from Ireland symbolizing a shift in her stance against the administration.
What to watch
The White House may continue to respond to O'Donnell's critiques, while O'Donnell may face further backlash from the administration. The feud could influence public opinion and media coverage of both figures.
- Trump’s White House Blasts Rosie O’Donnell After ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’ Hosting Run: A ‘Nasty Woman’ and ‘Total Slob’ Variety
- Rosie O’Donnell Ends Late Night Stint With a Ditty to ‘Donny Boy’ The New York Times
- Rosie O'Donnell hammers Trump repeatedly in Kimmel guest-host gig as White House fires back Fox News
- Rosie O’Donnell Joke About Trump and Natalie Harp Draws Gasps From ‘Kimmel’ Crowd The Hollywood Reporter
- Rosie O'Donnell ends 'Kimmel' run with a ballad for Trump Mashable
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