In January 2025, Rosie O’Donnell made headlines by relocating to Ireland with her 12-year-old son, Clay. In a TikTok video, she revealed that this significant decision came after much contemplation about her family’s well-being. O’Donnell shared that she moved on January 15 and is currently in the process of obtaining her Irish citizenship, thanks to her grandparents’ heritage.
In her video, she expressed her happiness about the move, stating, “It’s been pretty wonderful… The people are so loving and so kind, so welcoming.” However, she also mentioned the emotional toll of leaving behind her other children and friends, acknowledging that she misses many facets of her life back in the United States. O’Donnell is actively searching for a new home in Ireland, highlighting her hope for a future return to America once there are equal rights for all citizens.
Reflecting on the current political climate in the US, she described it as “heartbreaking” and noted that the personal and political aspects of life are intertwined. O’Donnell’s decision to open up about the move was prompted by a desire to prioritise her family’s wellbeing and to communicate her ongoing adjustments in this new chapter.
Rosie O’Donnell is not alone in her departure from the US; several other celebrities, including Eva Longoria and Ellen DeGeneres, have also chosen to live abroad in recent months, signifying a trend among public figures seeking different environments amid the evolving social and political landscape in their home country.