Jimmy Kimmel has announced that comedian Rosie O’Donnell will guest host Jimmy Kimmel Live! during his upcoming summer break, which he jokingly described as a “special treat” for former President Donald Trump. Speaking during his June 18 monologue, Kimmel said he would be taking two months off “this time voluntarily,” referencing his previous suspension from ABC in 2025 following controversial political remarks.
During his announcement, Kimmel revealed that the show will continue with a rotating lineup of guest hosts while he is away. The list includes Tiffany Haddish, Colman Domingo, Ike Barinholtz, Anthony Anderson, and Jelly Roll. However, it was O’Donnell’s name that drew the most attention, with Kimmel joking that her appearance was specifically meant as a “treat” for Trump, whom both comedians have frequently criticized over the years.
O’Donnell is set to host a week of episodes beginning August 17, a confirmation later verified by her spokesperson. She shared the news on Instagram, expressing excitement about the opportunity. The comedian has long had a public feud with Trump and has been one of his most outspoken celebrity critics, often engaging in political commentary across media platforms.
O’Donnell’s return to late-night television adds to her long career in entertainment, which includes hosting The Rosie O’Donnell Show and The Rosie Show. While she has no plans to return to The View as a guest panelist, she remains active in performance and live theater. Meanwhile, Jimmy Kimmel Live! continues airing weeknights on ABC at 11:35 p.m. ET, even as Kimmel takes his scheduled break.