Rosie O’Donnell fires back at social media users blaming her for ex-wife’s death

Rosie O'Donnell is defending herself in the face of online accusations that she caused ex-wife Michelle Rounds' recent apparent suicide.

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Rounds died this week, and some social media users have been blaming the tragedy on O’Donnell. Following the news of Rounds’ death, the comedian shared multiple posts about mental illness and suicide prevention. Despite her efforts to raise awareness, online trolls still blamed her for Rounds’ death, alleging that she kept their 4-year-old daughter Dakota away from her and drove her to take her own life.

"Was it mental illness or broken heart…she wasn't allowed to see the child you shared…time for introspection Rosie," one user tweeted at her, according to multiple reports.

Credit: Walter McBride

Credit: Walter McBride

O'Donnell responded to the criticism on Twitter by revealing that Rounds "gave up her custodial rights" as part of their 2015 custody battle. While Rounds technically didn't have custody of Dakota, she still spent time with her daughter with O'Donnell's permission.

Police found Rounds' body earlier this week, and the news of her death was announced Friday. Rounds had previously attempted to take her own life soon after her split with O'Donnell. The couple were married for two years before divorcing. O'Donnell shared that she was "saddened" by Rounds' passing.

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