Rosie O'Donnell guest-hosts Jimmy Kimmel Live! and references President Trump
Comedian Rosie O'Donnell filled in for Jimmy Kimmel on Aug. 17, delivering a monologue that alluded to President Donald Trump without naming him, and discussed her recent move to Ireland.
Rosie O'Donnell returned to television on Monday, Aug. 17, to guest-host the late-night program "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" while the regular host is on summer leave. In her opening remarks she joked about being back on a TV set after nearly three decades and referenced current political issues.
"I haven't sat behind a desk on TV in almost 30 years, and a lot has changed since the '90s," O'Donnell said, adding that today "everything is so chill."
She also spoke about her relocation to Ireland, describing it as a personal refuge and noting that she plans to return to the United States later. The monologue included a direct address to President Trump, though his name was not spoken.
"Hi, I know you're watching!" O'Donnell said, waving toward the audience.
The segment came after a public dispute between O'Donnell and Trump that intensified in 2025, when the president posted on his social-media platform that he was considering revoking her citizenship. O'Donnell responded by referencing the controversy and emphasizing her decision to live abroad.
The guest-hosting stint will continue through the week with a lineup of guests that includes Jean Smart, Richard Gadd, Charlie Day, Janelle James, Megan Mullally, Nick Offerman and Shawn Hatosy. Jimmy Kimmel is scheduled to resume hosting duties on Sept. 8.