Clay Aiken 'died inside' after Rosie O'Donnell outed him on 'The View' in 2006, tell me about this news in (https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/clay-aiken-died-inside-rosie-odonnell-outed-him-view-2006)
19-09-2026
In the article from Fox News, Clay Aiken reflects on an uncomfortable moment that occurred in November 2006 involving Rosie O’Donnell and Kelly Ripa.
Key details covered in the report include:
The Incident on “Live with Regis and Kelly”: While guest co-hosting the morning talk show alongside Kelly Ripa, Aiken playfully covered Ripa’s mouth with his hand. Ripa removed his hand and remarked, “I don’t know where that hand’s been, honey.”
O’Donnell’s Reaction on “The View”: Days later, Rosie O’Donnell addressed the interaction on “The View,” defending Aiken and labeling Ripa’s remark as homophobic based on how it came across to her. In doing so, O’Donnell inadvertently outed Aiken on live television, as he had not yet publicly disclosed his sexual orientation.
Aiken’s Reaction: Speaking recently on Page Six Radio, Aiken recalled that he “died inside” and panicked after being woken up by the mother of his future child, who told him what had just aired. Despite the shock, Aiken clarified that he harbors no ill will toward O’Donnell, noting that she meant well and spoke in the heat of the moment while trying to defend him.
Ripa’s Perspective: At the time, Ripa defended her comment, stating it was made strictly out of concern for germs during cold and flu season because Aiken had just been shaking hands with audience members, rejecting any implication of homophobia.
Coming Out Publicly: Aiken did not officially confirm his sexuality until September 2008, when he appeared on the cover of People magazine following the birth of his son, explaining that he wanted to raise his child with openness and honesty.