Rosie O’Donnell has officially relocated from the United States to Ireland, marking significant personal and professional changes as she navigates the tumultuous American political climate. The actress and comedian shared her decision during a nine-minute video posted on TikTok, where she revealed she made the move on January 15, 2025, accompanied by her 12-year-old child, Clay.
During the video, O’Donnell expressed how unexpected this move was for her, noting, “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 motivation for relocating appears to be deeply influenced by her dissatisfaction with the current political situation under President Donald Trump's administration, which has recently begun its second term.
O’Donnell emphasized the warmth of the new community she found, describing Ireland as “pretty wonderful.” She is also pursuing Irish citizenship through her grandparents, reinforcing her connection to her Irish heritage. “The people are so loving and so kind, so welcoming. And I’m very grateful,” she noted, highlighting the positive aspects of her new home.
Despite the joys of her new life, O’Donnell shared her struggles with being away from her friends and other children back in the U.S. “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 said, capturing the emotional side of her transition.
Her comments on the current state of American affairs were poignant. O’Donnell remarked, “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.” She pointed out significant discontent with how media has operated under the current presidency, stating, “The mainstream media has been letting us all down in America.” She encourages her followers to use their voices and protest to uphold democratic values, reminding everyone, “We don’t have cruelty as part of our governing style.”
O’Donnell did not directly mention Trump by name but her move occurred just before he took office for the second time, indicating the impact of political dissatisfaction. Celebrity relocations, as per O’Donnell’s experience, are not uncommon these days. Other personalities known to have moved abroad include Eva Longoria and Ellen DeGeneres, among others.
On March 12, 2025, during a meeting with Ireland's Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, President Trump was questioned about O’Donnell’s move. Light heartily responding, he said, “Thank you, I like the question.” This exchange underscored the jests made about O’Donnell’s new chapter. Trump's own administration's spokesperson, Taylor Rogers, added, “Promises made, promises kept. Good riddance!” implying support for O’Donnell’s departure, reflecting the long-standing feud between her and the president.
While O'Donnell’s new life is still taking shape, she has not ruled out the possibility of returning to the U.S. “When it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that's when we will reconsider coming back,” she indicated, making it clear her return is conditional on significant political and social changes.
Rosie O'Donnell's move to Ireland sheds light on the broader impact of political dissatisfaction felt among many Americans, especially celebrities. It also highlights the complex feelings involved when leaving one's home for the unknown, showing the personal struggles and sacrifices involved, as well as the hope for returning to a land where equality prevails.