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Rosie O’Donnell Describes Heartbreak Over Ellen DeGeneres Friendship
Rosie O’Donnell recently opened up about the emotional turmoil she experienced following the deterioration of her friendship with Ellen DeGeneres more than two decades ago. During an appearance on the Mamamia podcast titled No Filter, O’Donnell candidly discussed the impact of DeGeneres’ remarks made during a 2004 episode of Larry King Live, which she claims led to the end of their relationship.
A Friendship That Ended Unexpectedly
The actress, best known for her role in A League of Their Own, recalled the moment vividly. She watched the 2004 interview with her then-wife, Kelli Carpenter, and felt a sharp pang of betrayal when King asked DeGeneres about the cancellation of The Rosie O’Donnell Show, which aired from 1996 to 2002. O’Donnell mimicked King’s voice as she recounted the exchange, saying, “He asked her, ‘Whatever happened to Rosie O’Donnell? Her show went down the tubes.’”
To this, DeGeneres responded, “I don’t know Rosie. We’re not friends.” According to O’Donnell, this unexpected declaration marked one of the most painful moments in her career and personal life.
Unraveling Years of Friendship
O’Donnell expressed disbelief over DeGeneres’ comments. She revealed that they shared a long history, having known each other for three decades. The situation hit her hard, especially considering she had photographs of DeGeneres holding her newborn children. O’Donnell reflected, “I couldn’t believe it. I have photos of her holding my newborn babies. I knew her for 30 years.” The hurt from this situation lingered, with O’Donnell stating, “It was very painful and, you know, we’ve never really gotten over it.”
Feeling Betrayed and Alone
The comedian recalled feeling betrayed by DeGeneres, especially since she had been a staunch supporter when DeGeneres came out as gay during her sitcom in 1997. O’Donnell invited DeGeneres on her talk show in 1996, where they engaged in a playful exchange that hinted at O’Donnell’s own sexuality.
O’Donnell remembered feeling that the interaction was precarious, as she had not yet come out publicly. She noted, “Everyone who was gay at home got it. Because I wouldn’t leave her out there alone. I couldn’t do it.” This shared experience created a bond that O’Donnell believed would endure, making DeGeneres’ remarks all the more shocking.
The Weight of Personal and Professional Choices
As the host of a successful talk show, O’Donnell wrestled with the pressure to maintain her public persona. She stated, “I was on this very famous, very successful show, winning all the Emmy Awards, and it just felt like, ‘Oh, this could really threaten me.’” Despite this, she felt compelled to support DeGeneres through her own challenges as an openly gay person in the entertainment industry.
O’Donnell ultimately left The Rosie O’Donnell Show to concentrate on her family, despite lucrative offers to remain. Reflecting on this decision, she shared her disappointment with the way DeGeneres handled their friendship, saying, “Instead of deciding to stand next to me and hold my hand, which is what I did to her, she did the opposite. And I couldn’t believe it.”
Seeking Closure Through Communication
Over the years, O’Donnell has made it clear that she never received an apology from DeGeneres regarding their fallout. However, she mentioned that DeGeneres has reached out intermittently, questioning why O’Donnell continues to discuss their friendship. O’Donnell explained, “I said, ‘Well, it was profound for me. It was a profound moment.'”
Unlike DeGeneres, O’Donnell indicated that she would have approached the situation differently if she were in DeGeneres’ shoes. She expressed her belief that an apology could have healed some of the wounds, stating, “I would have said, ‘I’m really sorry I hurt you that much and I don’t know why I did that. It was a mistake and I hope you can forgive me.’”
Parallel Paths in the Public Eye
O’Donnell underscored the complexity of their intertwined careers, explaining that their paths often overlapped as prominent gay talk show hosts of similar ages. She revealed, “I have a hard time not telling the truth,” especially when asked about her relationship with DeGeneres. This connection in both personal challenges and professional pursuits makes their story even more poignant.
As of now, Fox News Digital has reached out to DeGeneres’ representatives for comments regarding O’Donnell’s reflections on their friendship. However, DeGeneres herself has remained publicly silent on the matter.
Support Amid Political Turmoil
Interestingly, despite their estrangement, DeGeneres showed support for O’Donnell amid her political disagreements with former President Donald Trump. Following Trump’s election, O’Donnell relocated to Ireland, where the former president once threatened her citizenship via a post on social media. DeGeneres, who now resides in the United Kingdom with her wife Portia de Rossi, shared a supportive message for O’Donnell in light of this political tension, saying, “Good for you,” clearly showing compassion during a turbulent time.
A Chapter Yet to Be Closed
Rosie O’Donnell’s reflections on her friendship with Ellen DeGeneres reveal deep-seated emotions tied to betrayal and support. While both women have forged their paths in the entertainment industry, the unresolved nature of their relationship adds complexity to their narratives. As O’Donnell continues to process the past, the hope for reconciliation or understanding remains a distant possibility.
