Rosie O’Donnell has lived almost every version of life in the spotlight. From her breakout in Hollywood alongside Tom Hanks and Madonna, to her groundbreaking daytime talk show that redefined television, Rosie was one of the most famous women in America.

But with fame came ridicule, public feuds, and moments that cut deeply. She’s been celebrated, mocked, and at times turned into the punchline of her own story. And one of the most painful moments came when Ellen DeGeneres told the world they weren’t friends.

In this conversation, Rosie is raw, funny and reflective. She speaks about growing up in the shadow of losing her mother, her shy first attempts at romance, the highs and lows of talk show success, and the very public feuds that made headlines. She shares what it was like to be blindsided by Ellen’s rejection, and why that moment stayed with her. And yes, she even talks about her recent return to our screens in And Just Like That.

Rosie O’Donnell has lived a big, messy, fascinating life — and in this episode, she tells it all.

You can now watch our show in full length video on the Apple Podcast app - make sure your phone is up to date and we can't wait for you to see. CLICK HERE.

What To Listen To Next:

The Out Loud hosts have handpicked their all-time favourite reads and one subscriber is winning the entire 12-book stack. Subscribe to Mamamia to be automatically entered to win. Current subscriber? You're already in the draw. T&Cs apply.

Get access to Very Peri, Mamamia's exclusive perimenopause series, for just $59. 25 world-leading experts, over 20 on-demand sessions, available now. We’ve sorted through the noise so you don't have to. Go to veryperi.com.au and join me today. You hot? Same. Buy today and save 40%

Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here.

Watch No Filter on YouTube. Follow us on Instagram here. Follow us on TikTok here.

Feedback: podcast@mamamia.com.au

Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will get back to you ASAP.

Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review.

CREDITS:

Guest: Rosie O'Donnell

Host: Kate Langbroek

Executive Producer: Bree Player

Audio and Video Producer: Julian Rosario

Social Media Producer: Olivia Colman

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast.

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.