Rosie O’Donnell has followed through on her promise to leave America after Trump’s re-election, relocating to Ireland with her 12-year-old non-binary child in search of what she describes as “equal rights” and “inclusivity.”
Quick Takes
- O’Donnell moved to Ireland in January 2024, citing Trump’s election victory as the reason for her departure.
- She is pursuing Irish citizenship through her grandparents’ heritage and has family connections in the country.
- The comedian will not consider returning until she believes “all citizens have equal rights” in America.
- Trump supporters have celebrated her departure on social media, referencing her long-standing feud with the President.
- O’Donnell admitted feeling homesick despite enjoying Ireland’s “welcoming” atmosphere.
From Hollywood to the Emerald Isle
Comedian and television personality Rosie O’Donnell has officially relocated to Ireland following Donald Trump’s return to the White House. The outspoken liberal entertainer moved in January with her 12-year-old child, Clay, who identifies as non-binary. O’Donnell’s decision comes after years of public feuding with Trump, dating back to 2006 when she criticized him on “The View” and he subsequently called her a “real loser.” Her relocation fulfills promises made by several celebrities who threatened to leave America if Trump won the election, though most others have yet to follow through.
O’Donnell’s TikTok video explaining her move has garnered significant attention, with over 1.8 million views and 179,000 likes. Trump supporters have been particularly vocal in celebrating her departure, with many commenting that she kept her word when other celebrities did not. The comedian, who has been a persistent critic of Trump throughout his political career, explained that the decision was difficult but necessary for her family’s well-being. Her connections to Ireland run deep – she is pursuing citizenship based on her grandparents’ heritage.
A Political and Personal Decision
In her video message to fans, O’Donnell explained that her departure was motivated by both political concerns and consideration for her child’s welfare. “Although I was someone who never thought I would move to another country, that’s what I decided would be the best for myself and my 12-year-old child,” she stated. The 62-year-old entertainer specifically cited concerns about equal rights as a driving factor in her decision, reflecting her long-standing advocacy for progressive causes, particularly LGBTQ+ rights. Her child Clay’s non-binary identity appears to have played a significant role in the family’s relocation.
Despite expressing happiness about the move and appreciation for Irish hospitality, O’Donnell has admitted to experiencing homesickness. She misses her other children and friends who remain in the United States. Her statements suggest the move may be temporary, though conditional on political changes. “I’m trying to find a home here in this beautiful country, and when it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that’s when we will consider coming back,” she explained, leaving the door open for an eventual return while maintaining her political stance.
Part of a Broader Celebrity Response
O’Donnell’s departure follows declarations from other celebrities like Barbra Streisand, Cher, and Sharon Stone, who suggested they might leave America if Trump returned to office. However, most have not yet acted on these statements. The departure represents a concrete step by O’Donnell, who has been among Trump’s most consistent and vocal critics in the entertainment world. Their feud, spanning nearly two decades, has included numerous public exchanges and social media confrontations that intensified during Trump’s first presidency.
While adjusting to life abroad, O’Donnell has maintained her outspoken stance on American politics through social media. She has encouraged her followers to “stand up, use their voice, protest, and demand” constitutional governance rather than what she characterized as rule by “a king” or “a man.” Despite her physical departure from the United States, she remains engaged in its political discourse and has expressed hope for positive change that would enable her return. For now, though, she and her child are establishing their new life across the Atlantic.
Sources:
- Rosie O’Donnell Moving to Ireland Sparks MAGA Celebrations: ‘Good Riddance’
- Rosie O’Donnell flees US after Trump win, won’t return until it’s ’safe for all citizens to have equal rights’
- Rosie O’Donnell moves to Ireland: ‘Heartbreaking to see’ what’s happening in US politics
