Rosie O’Donnell, the former co-host of The View, has been a vocal critic of Donald Trump since 2006. Now, following his return to the Oval Office, she has confirmed she has left the United States and relocated to Ireland.
O’Donnell Moves to Ireland, Seeks Citizenship
The comedian and actress revealed in a TikTok video that she is currently living in Ireland and has begun the process of applying for Irish citizenship.
“It’s been pretty wonderful, I have to say,” the 62-year-old shared. “The people have been so loving, so kind, and so welcoming. And I’m very grateful.”
O’Donnell stated that she left the U.S. on January 15, just five days before President Trump’s inauguration, citing personal and political reasons for her departure.
A Longstanding Feud with Trump
O’Donnell and Trump’s feud dates back to 2006 when she criticized him on The View over his decision to be lenient toward a Miss USA winner accused of drug use and misconduct. Trump retaliated by calling her a “real loser.”
Their ongoing war of words escalated over the years. In 2014, O’Donnell told People magazine that their dispute was “the most bullying I ever experienced in my life.” During Trump’s first presidential run, she frequently criticized him, once jokingly telling Seth Meyers that she spent “about 90% of my working hours tweeting hatred toward this administration.”
Trump even referenced her during a 2015 Republican primary debate when asked about calling women derogatory names. He responded, “Only Rosie O’Donnell,” prompting laughter from the audience.
A Political and Personal Decision
O’Donnell explained that she never imagined she would move to another country but felt it was the best choice for herself and her 12-year-old child.
“I’m trying to find a home here in this beautiful country,” she said. “And when it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights in America, that’s when we will consider coming back.”
Despite living abroad, O’Donnell has remained politically active. She frequently posted TikTok videos during the election, including a passionate Thanksgiving message warning people about Trump: “You can’t forget what he’s capable of… This is not a sane person. This is a madman. You gotta get ready for what’s coming. When democracy falls, fascism takes its place.”
Missing Home but Finding Peace
While she enjoys her time in Ireland, O’Donnell admitted she misses her five grown children, her friends, and aspects of her life in the U.S. However, she remains firm in her decision to stay away for now.
“It’s heartbreaking to see what’s happening politically, and hard for me personally as well. The personal is political, as we all know,” she said.
O’Donnell also expressed appreciation for her supporters, apologizing to those who worried about her absence. “I just felt like we needed to take care of ourselves, make some hard decisions, and follow through. Now, as we’re getting settled, I was ready to share what’s going on.”
A Call to Action
The A League of Their Own star encouraged Americans to take action: “Stand up, use your voice, protest, and demand that we follow the Constitution. We don’t need a king; we need leadership without cruelty.”
She also advised people to protect their mental well-being: “Try not to swim in the chaos, if possible. I know it’s nearly impossible when you’re in the middle of it.”
Hope for Change
Despite her decision to leave, O’Donnell remains hopeful about America’s future. “I think about the U.S. every day, and I’m hoping we can turn things around. I’m counting on all of you to do what’s right. And I think, deep down, we all know what that is.”
