Rosie O’Donnell has officially made her exit from the United States, relocating to Ireland earlier this year amid politically charged circumstances. The 62-year-old actress and comedian announced her move through a poignant video on TikTok, capturing the rationale behind her decision to leave America as she seeks solace and stability for herself and her 12-year-old son, Clay.
O’Donnell shared with her followers, "I moved here on January 15, and it’s been pretty wonderful." She explored how the warm reception from Irish locals has been reassuring, stating, "The people are so loving and kind, so welcoming, and I’m very grateful." Despite these positive experiences, O’Donnell admits to missing her friends and family back home. "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," she expressed.
The timing of O’Donnell’s move is closely linked to the political climate following Donald Trump’s re-election as President. She conveyed her disappointment with the direction of American politics, mentioning, "It’s been heartbreaking to see what’s happening politically and hard for me personally as well. The personal is political, as we all know." O’Donnell believes it's necessary to prioritize personal well-being, stating, "We needed to take care of ourselves and make some hard decisions and follow through.”
Within the backdrop of her relocation, O’Donnell has begun the process of applying for Irish citizenship, relying on her heritage through her grandparents. This step symbolizes not only her connection to Ireland but her desire for stability and equality, emphasizing, "When it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that's when we will [consider] coming back."
O’Donnell’s sentiments echoed widely on social media, prompting both support and scrutiny over her decision to leave. At the recent Oval Office press briefing held on March 12, conservative journalist Brian Glenn raised the issue directly, asking Ireland’s Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, why the nation would accept O’Donnell, who politically weighs heavily against Trump. The Taoiseach appeared incredulous and unable to provide much insight, prompting light-hearted responses from Trump, who remarked, "Did you know you have Rosie O’Donnell? You’re best off not knowing."
O’Donnell's feuding history with Trump can be traced back to their public disputes dating back nearly two decades. She has consistently characterized him as outdated and dangerous, labeling Trump as akin to "a snake-oil salesman on 'Little House on the Prairie.'" During the fervor of the 2016 election, he infamously stated, "Only Rosie O’Donnell" when asked about his derogatory remarks toward women. This animosity reignited when she relocated to Ireland shortly before Trump assumed office for the second time.
Despite the controversies surrounding her decision to leave, O’Donnell’s attempt to distance herself from the chaos of American politics resonates with many others who seek refuge or change. Several other high-profile personalities, including Eva Longoria and Ellen DeGeneres, have also opted to live abroad, citing similar political grievances.
She urged followers to remain steadfast even when things appear bleak. "I encourage everyone to stand up, to use their voice, to protest," O’Donnell advised, reinforcing the notion of engaging actively to safeguard democracy. "So, here’s hoping [the media] will get it right before it’s too late. Protect your sanity is all I can say.”
O’Donnell's experience encapsulates the difficult choices many individuals face amid political unrest, highlighting how personal decisions are intricately intertwined with societal pressure and climate. Her candid reflections not only share her personal anguish but also summon others to think critically about their own lives and choices.
For now, Rosie O’Donnell is embracing her new existence across the Atlantic, expressing optimism for her and her son Clay's future. Amidst her fondness for the welcoming Irish culture, she continues to contemplate her ties to America. "I think about everyone every day and the United States of America. And I am hoping we can turn things around, counting on all of you to do what’s right. And I think deep down inside, we all know what [that] is,” she concluded. O’Donnell has left the door open for consideration of returning to the US, dependent on changes within the political climate. Until then, Ireland may just replace the US as her home as she weaves through this new chapter of her life, underlined by the continual pursuit of equality and kindness.