Rosie O’Donnell just reminded everyone exactly why audiences have missed seeing her on television, earning a standing ovation during her return to the late-night spotlight on Jimmy Kimmel Live!
The comedian stepped behind the desk on the famous talk show for the first time last night, filling in for Jimmy Kimmel during his summer break. During her opening monologue, Rosie reflected on her decision to move to Ireland, her long-running feud with Donald Trump, and what it has been like being away from American television. The enthusiastic audience made it clear they were happy to have her back. Her return quickly sparked a wave of excitement online as well as speculation that this could be a sign of more television appearances to come. Read more about her first night filling in as the show’s host and how fans reacted below.
Rosie O’Donnell Receives A Standing Ovation During First Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ Monologue
The former View co-host took over hosting duties on Jimmy Kimmel Live! while he’s away, with her guest-hosting stint running from August 17th through August 20th. Her live television appearance marks a particularly notable return for her, as she’s been living in Ireland since moving there in early 2025 with her youngest child, Clay. She famously admitted that Donald Trump’s return to the White House was the catalyst for her relocating.
Her highly anticipated opening monologue on night one of her guest-hosting period discussed her move abroad, her complicated history and infamous long-distance feud with the president, and the strange feeling of returning to an American television stage after spending so much time away. Off the bat, the studio audience greeted her with a standing ovation before she launched into the jokes, including one particularly memorable warning about what her presence could mean for the president.
“If you thought the president hated ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ when it was hosted by Jimmy Kimmel?” she joked. “Buckle up, people! Buckle up.” She later addressed Trump directly, stating, “Hi! I know you’re watching!”
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Fans React To Rosie's Monologue And Return To Television Online
The excited response to the mom-of-five's live television appearance didn't take long to go viral on social media, where her fans celebrated seeing her back on set and making jokes on camera. Many viewers expressed how much they had missed her signature personality and humor.
Though the guest-hosting gig is only temporary, her return has fueled speculation about whether Rosie could have a bigger television comeback ahead. She has previously indicated that she could be open to daytime television, and recent reports came out that she was working on potentially taking over the late-night show slot permanently. Fans supported her comeback on platforms like YouTube, proving she'd get a warm welcome back from a large number of viewers.
"Thank you, Jimmy," commented a fan on YouTube. "Thanks for this treat! Rosie, you are spectacular!! Ireland suits you well! I'm so glad to see you. A big hug."
"Fantastic to see Rosie again," responded another. "She killed it! That ovation made me smile. Thank you, Jimmy, for inviting her. It was a real treat. Looking great, Rosie!"
"She ate that monologue up!" a user added. "Glad to see you back, Rosie!"
"I'm so here for this comeback," a fan commented.
"Oh, this is going to be a great week," added another. "Welcome back, Rosie!"
