Comedian and actor Rosie O’Donnell has officially left the United States, relocating to Ireland with her 12-year-old son, Clay, after expressing her discontent with the current political situation back home. On March 11, 2025, O'Donnell announced her move via TikTok, stating, "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." O'Donnell made the move on January 15, 2025, just days before Donald Trump's second inauguration, and is currently pursuing Irish citizenship.
Since arriving, the former talk show host has shared her feelings about her new life, stating, "It’s been pretty wonderful, I have to say. The people are so loving and so kind, so welcoming, and I’m very grateful." Despite her positivity about the Irish, O'Donnell has not shied away from addressing her longing for the life she left behind. "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 added, indicating the emotional toll of the decision.
O'Donnell made it clear her move was motivated by the political climate she has observed since Trump's re-election. "It has been heartbreaking to see what’s happening over there politically and hard for me personally as well," she said, addressing the turmoil she feels about the direction of American politics. She also voiced her disappointment over the media's role, stating, "The mainstream media has been letting us all down... they haven’t been doing their job," critiquing their failure to maintain democratic accountability.
Before her TikTok announcement, O'Donnell hinted at her move by posting selfies on Instagram. One recent post featured her behind the wheel of her new car, humorously noting her struggles adjusting to driving on the left side of the road, jokingly mentioning hitting the curb multiple times. "I bought a little used car to tool around the countryside on the wrong side of the road. Hit the curb three times – thought I hit a cat!!!"
Her comments not only reflect her adjustment to life across the Atlantic but also serve as indicators of the emotional complexity surrounding her relocation. Emphasizing her commitment to her son’s happiness, she said, "You know, I’m happy. Clay is happy." Yet, the pull of family weighs heavily on her, as she mentioned missing her other children and friends and wishing to find stability in her new surroundings.
O'Donnell's move follows other celebrities who have left the US amid growing political tensions. It seems more public figures are finding refuge abroad as uncertainty looms over the American political climate. The actress acknowledged this trend, noting, "When it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that's when we will come back." This statement reflects deep-seated concern for social justice and equality, which she hopes to see restored before considering returning.
The actress has expressed gratitude for Ireland’s warm welcome and supportive community, affirming, "The people are so loving, so kind, so welcoming." She has begun her citizenship application, citing her Irish heritage through both her grandparents. "It’s nice to have roots here, to claim part of my heritage," she mentioned.
While moving to Ireland may seem like a drastic measure, O'Donnell’s sentiments resonate with many who feel disheartened by current affairs. Her comments suggest she won’t let her voice go silent either, encouraging individuals to use their platforms for activism: "I encourage everyone to stand up, to use their voice, to protest, to demand to follow the Constitution… not to have cruelty as part of our governing style."
O'Donnell has made the best of her new life but has not turned her back on her home country. Instead, she continues to express hope for the future of America, mentioning, "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." She underlines the importance of collective action and the power of democracy, showing her commitment to social change even from afar.
Though O'Donnell's chapter in Ireland is just beginning, her reflections highlight a larger narrative about the emotional, cultural, and political impacts of her decision—one captured poignantly by her declaration: "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 hope remains for a time when all citizens of her home country can enjoy equal rights, after which she would seriously contemplate returning, but until then, she is finding her place on the emerald shores of Ireland.