Comedian and former host of The View Rosie O’Donnell has revealed she relocated to Ireland following the re-election of President Donald Trump. The announcement came through an emotional nine-minute video message she shared on TikTok, where she confirmed she moved to Ireland with her youngest child, Clay, just before Trump’s inauguration, on January 15, 2025. O'Donnell, whose grandparents hail from Ireland, expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome she received, stating, “It’s been pretty wonderful, I have to say… the people are so loving and so kind and so welcoming. And I’m very grateful.”
Despite her newfound appreciation for her adopted country, O'Donnell admitted to missing her friends and family back home, especially her other children. “I miss my other kids. I miss my friends. I miss many things about life there at home,” she noted. O'Donnell elaborated, “I was never someone who thought I would move to another country, but I decided it was best for myself and my 12-year-old child. Here we are.”
The move follows O'Donnell's long-standing feud with Trump, which ignited back in 2006 when she publicly criticized his infidelity. Her challenges with the political atmosphere led her to describe the current situation as “heartbreaking.” She mentioned her hope to apply for citizenship due to her Irish heritage, saying, “I am hoping to apply for citizenship because of my grandparents.”
On social media, Rosie hinted at her relocation before the video confirmation by posting photos of Dublin. She admitted she bought “a little used car to tool around the countryside on the wrong side of the road” and humorously noted hitting the curb three times during her first experience driving there.
O'Donnell’s decision to leave the United States is also influenced by her experiences, including the loss of her Malibu home to the California wildfires earlier this year. She expressed concern for her well-being and stated, “We needed to take care of ourselves and make some hard decisions and follow through.” According to O'Donnell, her time abroad will continue until conditions improve back home: “When it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that's when we will think about coming back.”
O'Donnell, now 62, shared her emotional struggle, stating, “It's been heartbreaking to see what's happening politically, and hard for me personally as well. The personal is political.” Her insights resonate with many Americans feeling disheartened by the current political climate. She concluded her video with encouragement for her American followers, advising them to “protect your sanity as much as you can.”
With her move, Rosie O'Donnell has sparked mixed reactions, particularly from supporters of President Trump. Some on social media voiced their approval, saying, “Well, she did it. I at least have to give Rosie O'Donnell credit. She moved to Ireland. Now waiting for all the other liberal hacks to leave like they promised,” reflecting the divisive nature of contemporary politics.
Conversely, others offered encouragement: “Welcome to Dublin, Ireland, Rosie! Best of luck with your application for citizenship,” showcasing the variety of sentiments among the public. O'Donnell has vowed to remain active within the entertainment industry, continuing her support for causes she is passionate about, including LGBTQ+ rights.
O'Donnell's worth, estimated to be around $80 million, has accumulated over her successful career spanning stand-up comedy, television shows, films, and business ventures. Her significant wealth reflects not only her talent but also her dedication to various philanthropic endeavors.
Despite her transition to life overseas, O'Donnell has indicated she still keeps close tabs on developments back home. She expressed her hope for improved conditions and the potential for returning one day when equal rights are secured for everyone. O'Donnell's move to Ireland is not merely geographical but symbolizes her stand against the current administration and her desire for freedom and acceptance.