Kathy Griffin Says She Was “Really Hurt” By Jimmy Kimmel Live! Snub As Rosie O’Donnell Responds

Kathy Griffin has opened up about feeling disappointed after she was not invited to appear on Jimmy Kimmel Live! during Rosie O’Donnell’s week as guest host — but Rosie has since responded, explaining that the guest decisions were not hers to make.

The unexpected exchange between the longtime friends has sparked attention from fans, especially as Griffin made clear that her disappointment came from wanting to support Rosie during her return to late-night television.

Kathy Griffin Reveals She Felt Hurt

Earlier this week, Griffin shared a video titled “If Rosie Would’ve Called, I Would’ve Jumped,” where she talked about not being invited to appear on the show.

“My feelings were really hurt that I was not invited to go on Rosie’s week of the Jimmy Kimmel show,” Griffin said.

The comedian explained that she has a long history with both Rosie O’Donnell and Jimmy Kimmel, describing Kimmel as one of her oldest friends and saying she also deeply values her friendship with Rosie.

Griffin admitted that she had started to believe an appearance might happen after hearing from others who assumed she would be part of Rosie’s guest lineup.

“I was kind of getting excited,” Griffin explained, saying she wondered if she might have the opportunity to join the show.

However, as the week continued, the invitation never arrived.

Rosie O’Donnell Responds

After Griffin shared a clip of the video on Instagram, Rosie O’Donnell responded directly in the comments.

“Kathy – shoulda called me honey – I didn’t choose the guests…,” O’Donnell wrote.

The comment appeared to clarify that, despite being the guest host, Rosie did not have control over who appeared on the program.

During her guest-hosting week, Rosie welcomed a number of high-profile guests, including Jean Smart, Hannah Waddingham, Richard Gadd, Ana Gasteyer, Charlie Day and Janelle James.

She is also scheduled to interview Megan Mullally, Nick Offerman and Shawn Hatosy.

Griffin Continues Supporting Rosie

Despite feeling disappointed, Griffin emphasized that she supports Rosie and believes she is doing a great job hosting the show.

“She’s doing a great job and will continue to,” Griffin said, encouraging viewers to watch and support Rosie’s late-night appearance.

The situation appears to be more about missed expectations than a personal conflict, with both comedians expressing affection and respect for each other.

For now, fans are watching closely as the unexpected behind-the-scenes moment highlights how even longtime Hollywood friendships can face complicated emotions.