Rosie O’Donnell Talks ‘Empire’ Guest Appearance Nerves

Rosie O’Donnell recently filmed a guest spot on Fox’s “Empire,” and she told Access Hollywood she was nervous before shooting the Fox hit.

“It was such an honor and such a thrill. It was the most nervous I’d ever been,” Rosie told Access on the red carpet at Rosie’s Theater Kids’ 12th Annual Gala Celebration at the New York Marriott Marquis on Monday night. 

The actress and television personality said that part of those nerves came from the impact the “Empire” boss’ work on 2009’s “Precious,” had on her.

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“Because it is such a wonderful show, and the fact that it’s [the] No. 1 show, and Lee Daniels — when I first saw ‘Precious,’ I remember being blown away thinking he had created a new genre of film — like a docudrama as a feature film. It was so real and gritty that it felt almost like a documentary,” Rosie said. 

“And just to be a part of that cast,” she continued. “And to be asked to be on it… My agent was like, ‘Um, do you want to be on ‘Empire’? I’m like, ‘Yes. Yes.’ And they didn’t tell me what part I was going to play, so I had no idea. But when I found out that Taraji [P. Henson] and I had nearly all of our scenes together…

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“She is so good, on point and quick that it was the first time I ever walked on a set knowing every single line,” Rosie added. “I was ready, ready, ready!”

Rosie’s character, Pepper, is tight with Cookie, but as for what fans will see when the two interact, it’s being kept mysterious.

“Cookie comes to me in Philly for a little bit of help,” Rosie said.

“Empire” airs Wednesday nights at 9/8c on Fox.

— Jolie Lash