Comedian and actress Rosie O'Donnell has officially relocated to Ireland, citing political concerns surrounding the situation back home as the driving force behind her decision to leave the United States. O'Donnell, who moved on January 15, 2025, brought her 12-year-old adopted son Clay with her and shared her sentiments about the move through social media.
Posting on TikTok, O'Donnell expressed her surprising choice to live abroad, saying, "Although I was never someone who thought I would move to another country, that's what I decided would be the best for myself and my 12-year-old child." Her relocation came just days before the inauguration of President Donald Trump, reflecting her deep discontent with American politics, which she described as "heartbreaking to see what's happening politically and hard for me personally as well. The personal is political, as we all know."
O'Donnell revealed her plans to acquire Irish citizenship, thanks to her grandparents' roots from the Emerald Isle. "It's been pretty wonderful, I have to say. The people are so loving and so kind, so welcoming," she said, noting her gratitude for the warm reception she's received. Despite the positive feelings about her new home, she lamented missing her other children and friends back home, emphasizing the difficulty of making such significant life changes amid political turmoil.
Her move also coincided with other celebrities opting to leave the U.S., amid similar sentiments linked to the fraught political atmosphere. O'Donnell remarked, "When it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that's when we willconsider coming back," highlighting her motivations based on American sociopolitical dynamics.
The comedian's relocation was particularly topical when it caught the attention of U.S. political figures. During a press conference on March 12, 2025, President Trump was questioned by conservative journalist Brian Glenn about O'Donnell's move to Ireland. The question prompted laughter, and Trump responded, saying, "Did you know you have Rosie O'Donnell? Do you know who she is? ... you'rebetter off not knowing." This public exchange underscored the long-standing feud between O'Donnell and Trump, which began over 20 years ago.
O'Donnell has been openly dismissive of Trump for years now, having called him a "snake-oil salesman on 'Little House on the Prairie'" during earlier encounters. Their contentious exchanges have included Trump's infamous remarks during the 2016 presidential campaign when he labeled her with derogatory names, to which O'Donnell countered by referring to him as "a madman" and "a fascist."
Reflecting on the state of American media, O'Donnell criticized the current media environment, stating, "The mainstream media has been letting us all down in America, where the fourth estate is required to maintain democracy. They haven’t been doing their job." She expressed hope for improvement, emphasizing the need for the media to fulfill its role effectively to sustain democracy.
Even as she settles down geographically, O'Donnell's thoughts remain anchored to the U.S.: "I think about everyone every day and the United States of America. And I am hoping we can turn things around, counting on you, all of you, to do what's right. And I think deep down inside, we all know whatthat is."
With her children and home back stateside, the comedian strives to find her footing amid the scenic beauty of Ireland. "I miss my other kids. I miss my friends. I miss many things about life there at home, and I’m trying to find a home here in this beautiful country," she expressed, illustrating the emotional complexity of her situation.
While O'Donnell's move symbolizes her personal quest for safety and comfort, it also reflects broader sentiments among American expats who feel disenchanted with the current political atmosphere. The transition serves as part of her enduring stand for rights and equity, and it raises questions about her potential return to the U.S. as she navigates these turbulent times.
O'Donnell's move highlights the intersection of personal and political, encouraging conversation about the choices individuals make when confronted with challenging socio-political landscapes. For now, she appears content to ride out her new chapter on Irish soil, hoping for positive change back home.