Rosie O’Donnell Returns To ‘The View’
We didn’t think Rosie O’Donnell would ever share the same stage with Barbara Walters again after her exit from The View, but that’s exactly what’s happening as the comedian turned talk show host is poised to make her return to the daytime show.
Rosie O’Donnell’s return to The View is a long one in the making since her exit seven years ago, but this time she won’t over stay her welcome. As some may know, Rosie O’Donnell was released from her contract early when she and staunch republican Elisabeth Hasselbeck came to blows over the war on Iraq. This time around her return to the talk show is just one appearance so O’Donnell can talk about her on going projects. Rosie’s appearance on The View will take place on February 7, and we’re positive she will bring her wonderful candor and insights with her, which may or may not clash with Jenny McCarthy who replaced Elisabeth Hasselbeck.
Years ago Barbara Walters had hinted that she was upset when O’Donnell criticized the show after she left, particularly about the IFB devices the women of The View wore. When O’Donnell took her place at the table, it was believed that she got rid of the IFBs so the women could drive the conversations during the show instead of relying on distracting directions from production. However, some women of The View opted out and wore their IFBs.
When it was announced that Rosie was returning for an appearance on The View, Barbara Walters was quoted in a statement:
“I have great affection for Rosie and we have remained in contact throughout the years. I am happy to welcome her back to the program. She is always a lively and engaging guest and a part of the show’s successful history.”
As for the reason why Rosie O’Donnell has decided to make an appearance on The View, a source told People that it was for a sentimental reason, and much of that has to do with Rosie’s admiration for Barbara Walters.
“She wanted to go back and visit The View to celebrate Barbara’s last season and talk about her ABC show The Fosters and her one woman show.”
Currently Rosie O’Donnell has a regular recurring role on the ABC Family show The Fosters. On the show Rosie plays a foster and adoptive mother, Rita Hendricks, who is described as “a tough yet compassionate woman who works for the foster care system and becomes a mentor to a member of the Foster family.”
Of the show, O’Donnell said:
“I am thrilled to be a part of this wonderful, heartwarming show. My kids and I never miss it.”
Currently The View’s panel consists of Whoopi Goldberg, Jenny McCarthy, Sherri Shepherd, and Barbara Walters.
[Image credit: s_bukley / Shutterstock.com]
