LOL
Had I been asked the question I would have turned it around and said something like....
“While the disagreement between Rosie O’Donnell and I is well known I would like to say that upon reflection, I should not have called her a name and I would like to publically apologize for the comment. The original disagreement still exists but my apology for the comment is sincere and I would hope we can move on to more substantive questions.”