No View for Rosie O’Donnell

Thursday, April 26, 2007

A few of us were surprised and many were not at hearing that Rosie O’Donnell is leaving the television show, The View, officially in mid-June this year.  This popular daytime chat show has provided a lot of entertainment for viewers worldwide, and much of its popularity is due to Rosie’s exuberant personality as co-host and moderator of the panel.  There has been a lot of controversy, however, associated with Rosie, as she has been in and out of the news for stating her opinions and views publicly and on the air.  After a successful one-year season, representatives from ABC, the show’s sponsor, were unable to reach an agreement with Ms O’Donnell on the term of the next contract.  ABC wanted to renew for three years, and Rosie was only willing to sign for one, but she did agree to return from time to time as a guest on the show.

Rosie made the headlines not too long ago with her statements about and ongoing feud with “The Donald”, Donald Trump that is.  This wasn’t the first time that Rosie has openly criticized people and shows including American Idol, Kelly Ripa also of daytime TV, and even President Bush.  Once again, just this past Monday, as host of the annual awards for New York Women in Communication, she addressed several tactless comments toward Rupert Murdoch, well-known media executive.  Presenters of the awards at this prestigious occasion held at the Waldorf-Astoria in Manhattan included Senator Hillary Clinton, Martha Stewart, and Barbara Walters.  Although Barbara Walters is a co-host on The View and has always supported Rosie, she seemed quite embarrassed and told the press that she was definitely not in agreement with Rosie’s opinion of Murdoch, a friend of Barbara’s.  Ms Walters does insist, however, that this had no effect on Rosie’s leaving the show. 

Although Rosie O’Donnell has always been quick tempered and definitely opinionated, she is quick witted and has a keen sense of humor that has provided hours of laughter and enjoyment for thousands.  With this latest development, we wonder what’s next for Rosie - whether she will host her own TV show again, win more Emmy awards, make occasional guest appearances, or spend more free time with her four kids.  Whether you’re a fan of Rosie’s or not, her enthusiasm and talent will certainly be missed on The View, an enthusiasm that brought the ratings for the show higher than ever before.