Rosie O'Donnell has made the significant decision to move from the United States to Ireland, citing political turmoil as the motivating factor behind her choice. The comedian and actress announced her relocation through a video shared on TikTok, where she explained her move took place on January 15, 2025, just days before President Donald Trump’s second inauguration.
"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, Clay," O'Donnell said, expressing her surprise at the turn of events. She shared her thoughts about the Irish people, describing them as "so loving and so kind, so welcoming, and I’m very grateful." O'Donnell is now also pursuing her Irish citizenship, thanks to her grandparents who hailed from Ireland.
The actress articulated her feelings of sadness about leaving her family and friends behind, admitting, "I miss my other kids. I miss my friends. I miss many things about life there at home." O'Donnell acknowledged the struggle of finding home again, stating she is "trying to find a home here in this beautiful country." Her move appears to be influenced heavily by the political developments back home, culminating, as she puts it, with the realization: "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's departure has stirred up discussions among political figures as well. During a recent Oval Office press conference, conservative journalist Brian Glenn raised the question to Taoiseach Micheál Martin, asking, "Why in the world would you let Rosie O'Donnell move to Ireland?" The Taoiseach seemed puzzled by the inquiry, illustrating the reach of O'Donnell’s celebrity status even beyond her homeland. President Trump cryptically responded, "Did you know you have Rosie O'Donnell? Do you know who she is? You're just...better off not knowing." This exchange brought attention to the longstanding feud between O'Donnell and Trump, which dates back nearly two decades.
The comedian has famously engaged in public spats with Trump, particularly his comments about women and his leadership style. O'Donnell described Trump as a "madman" and "fascist" during her video, pointedly avoiding any direct naming but clearly indicating her sentiments were rooted against his administration.
Critically, she expressed disappointment with the U.S. legacy media, claiming, "They have been letting us all down, and haven’t been doing their job, which is necessary to maintain democracy." O'Donnell utilized the platform of TikTok to urge people to stay alert and resist the negative trends she perceives are harming American democracy. She stated, "Protect your sanity as much as you can, and try not to swim in the chaos if possible. But I know it’s nearly impossible when you’re there in the middle of it." Her call to action urges audiences to find their voices and challenge the norms.
While O'Donnell's move is seen as particularly drastic, she is not alone; several other public figures have recently relocated outside the U.S. amid rising political tension. Stars like Eva Longoria and Ellen DeGeneres have also considered leaving the country for various reasons.
Looking forward, O'Donnell stated, "When it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that's when we will think about coming back." This reflects her deep frustration over issues of equality and rights exacerbated under Trump's leadership.
Although Rosie O'Donnell now finds herself living across the ocean, she continues to express her love for America. "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. Deep down inside, we all know what’s right,” she said. This statement encapsulates her desire for positive change, not just for herself but for all Americans.
O'Donnell's bold decision to relocate serves as not just her personal statement of discontent but is symbolically a reflection of the broader frustrations felt by many who are struggling with America's current political climate. While the future remains uncertain, both for O'Donnell and the country at large, her voice amplifies the urgency of the need for societal change.