Rosie O’Donnell revisits her most controversial moment from The View years later

Rosie O’Donnell reflects on her heated The View argument with Elisabeth Hasselbeck and why she still watches it

Rosie O’Donnell is looking back on one of the most memorable moments in The View history nearly two decades after her heated on-air argument with Elisabeth Hasselbeck.

During an interview while promoting her one-woman show Common Knowledge, O’Donnell reflected on her complicated relationship with Hasselbeck and admitted that she occasionally rewatches their infamous 2007 debate.

The disagreement occurred when O’Donnell and Hasselbeck were co-hosts on The View and clashed over political issues, including the Iraq War. The discussion became a major television moment after the two appeared in a split-screen confrontation that quickly attracted national attention.

Speaking about the incident, O’Donnell said her friendship with Hasselbeck had been positive before their televised disagreement. She described their relationship as one that “blew up on national TV” and revealed that she sometimes watches the exchange to remember what the experience felt like.

O’Donnell has previously claimed that the argument was influenced by producers and suggested the split-screen moment was planned. Hasselbeck later disputed those comments, defending the authenticity of the emotional exchange.

The comedian also shared her appreciation for former The View co-host Joy Behar, naming her as her favourite co-host from her time on the programme. O’Donnell highlighted their long friendship and history of performing stand-up comedy together.

While O’Donnell said she would consider returning as a guest for The View’s upcoming 30th anniversary, she explained that she is less interested in political debates as entertainment. Instead, she prefers opportunities that allow her to showcase her comedy and personal storytelling.

O’Donnell is currently performing her solo show Common Knowledge in New York City.