Rosie O'Donnell Unpacks 'The View' Drama: A 'Set-Up' That Shattered Friendships

Nearly two decades after her tumultuous departure from 'The View' and an infamous on-air clash, Rosie O'Donnell is breaking her silence, asserting that her explosive 2007 confrontation with co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck was a calculated 'set-up.' O'Donnell, known for her candidness, recently revealed her long-held belief that the dramatic exchange, which ultimately led to her early exit from the popular daytime talk show, was orchestrated by producers, leaving her feeling betrayed and heartbroken.

The argument, centered around the polarizing topic of the Iraq War and Hasselbeck's staunch conservative views, escalated quickly on live television.

O'Donnell, a vocal critic of the war, found herself in a heated debate with Hasselbeck, whose pro-war stance created an irreparable rift between the two. However, O'Donnell now claims her perceived ambush wasn't a spontaneous disagreement, but rather a deliberate act of manipulation.

According to O'Donnell, the genesis of her belief stems from viewing footage she hadn't seen at the time of the incident.

This tape allegedly showed producers coaching Hasselbeck moments before the segment, giving her specific instructions on how to confront O'Donnell. This revelation transformed the incident in O'Donnell's mind from a passionate debate into a 'televised assault,' designed to ignite controversy and maximize ratings at her expense.

The comedian and activist described her shock and disappointment, especially given her personal relationship with Hasselbeck prior to the incident.

O'Donnell recalled their friendship, emphasizing that the on-air drama felt like a profound betrayal. The idea that someone she considered a friend was allegedly being directed to attack her, coupled with the show's producers' alleged involvement, solidified her sense of being wronged.

While O'Donnell insists she has moved past the pain and anger, the lingering memory of the 'set-up' clearly remains a significant chapter in her career.

Her recent comments serve not as an attempt to rekindle old feuds, but rather to offer a new perspective on a pivotal moment that reshaped her public image and her relationship with the show. It's a candid look back at a time when the lines between entertainment and personal integrity became irrevocably blurred, leaving a lasting impression on one of television's most outspoken personalities.