Rosie O'Donnell Alleges The View Producers Set Up 2007 Hasselbeck Fight

Rosie O'Donnell has reflected on her infamous 2007 on-air feud with Elisabeth Hasselbeck on ABC's The View, suggesting that the confrontation was orchestrated by the show's producers, particularly noting that the split-screen presentation of their argument was pre-planned. O'Donnell expressed surprise and hurt that Hasselbeck, whom she once considered a friend and supported personally, would publicly question her patriotism during a tense political period. She detailed efforts to build a friendship with Hasselbeck, including inviting her to her home and family events, which made the televised conflict feel like a betrayal. The heated exchange symbolized deeper political and personal clashes, with O'Donnell criticizing the producer Bill Geddie for allegedly preparing Hasselbeck with Republican talking points. O'Donnell's experience on the show, including multiple disputes with Hasselbeck, contributed to her eventual departure from The View in 2013, with Hasselbeck leaving two years later. This dispute remains a notable moment in daytime television history, highlighting tensions between personal relationships and on-air dynamics.