Rosie O’Donnell Opens Jimmy Kimmel Live! Guest Host Run With Trump Shout-Out: “Hi, I Know You’re Watching!”

Rosie O'Donnell began a week-long guest-hosting run on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Monday, her return to the talk show stage after nearly three decades. "If you thought the president hated Jimmy Kimmel Live! when it was hosted by Jimmy Kimmel… buckle up, people. Buckle up," O'Donnell joked, as she introduced her opening monologue. She then revealed her recent relocation to Ireland, citing her dislike for the current administration.

"You know, I’ve been living in Ireland for the past two years because of ‘Mango Mussolini,’” she said, referring to President Donald Trump. "I read that Project 2025 and said, ‘Got to get myself out of here, you know.’" O'Donnell brought her 11-year-old child with her to Ireland, instructing them to keep the move private. Despite her child inadvertently informing their classmates, O'Donnell's daughter stood by her mother's decision.

The talk show host concluded her monologue with a shout-out to a Washington, DC viewer, saying, "Hi! I know you’re watching," with a smile. O'Donnell will continue hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live! through the remainder of the week while Kimmel vacations.