Rosie O’Donnell has always been outspoken, whether on stage, social media, or in her personal life.
But now, the comedian and former talk show host has embarked on a major life change—relocating to Ireland.
Her decision to leave the United States was deeply personal, influenced not only by her long-standing political views but also by a desire for a fresh start with her youngest child.
A Heartfelt Goodbye to Family in the U.S.
Leaving loved ones behind is never easy, and Rosie is feeling the weight of that decision.
On Sunday, the 63-year-old shared a photo of her 25-year-old son, Blake O’Donnell, and his wife Teresa, expressing just how much she misses them.
Though she is thousands of miles away, her bond with her children remains strong, even as she starts this new chapter.
For now, her only companion in Ireland is her 12-year-old child Dakota “Clay” O’Donnell, whom she adopted during her marriage to the late Michelle Rounds.
With most of her family still in the U.S., Rosie is navigating this transition with a mix of excitement and longing.
Finding a Home in Ireland
Rosie’s Irish roots run deep—her grandparents hailed from the Emerald Isle, and she had hinted at this move as early as March. Now, she is in the process of obtaining Irish citizenship.
Reflecting on her experience so far, she described the people of Ireland as “loving, kind, and welcoming.”
While moving to a new country wasn’t something she ever anticipated, she believes it was the best choice for her and Clay.
She also expressed immense pride in her child’s resilience, acknowledging how challenging such a move can be.
Holding Onto Her Beliefs
Despite being across the Atlantic, Rosie has not let go of her strong opinions about American politics.
She frequently voices her criticisms of former President Donald Trump and his influence, as well as his association with figures like Elon Musk.
Her long-standing feud with Trump dates back to 2006, and even from afar, she remains vocal about her opposition.
Recently, Rosie took a surprising turn by extending forgiveness to MAGA supporters.
In a video shared on her Substack channel, she said, “I forgive them, and I know they didn’t ask for my forgiveness.”
She acknowledged how many had been influenced by political narratives and misinformation, hoping for a more united future.
A Difficult Goodbye to New York
In another major change, Rosie recently sold her Midtown Manhattan penthouse for $6.9 million—significantly less than the $8.3 million she initially paid for it.
After two years on the market, she finalized the sale last Friday.
The move symbolizes not just a financial shift but a deeper decision to leave behind the life she built in New York.
Family Struggles and Hope for Healing
Rosie’s children remain central to her life, even as she settles in Ireland. She shares her son Blake and 29-year-old Parker with her first wife, Kelli Carpenter.
Her daughter Vivienne, 22, is currently a senior at the University of Delaware.
However, her relationship with her 27-year-old daughter Chelsea has been strained for years.
Chelsea recently filed to legally change her last name to “Nevens” and is facing legal trouble in Wisconsin after pleading no contest to drug-related charges.
Rosie addressed the situation with a somber note, acknowledging Chelsea’s decade-long struggle with addiction while holding onto hope for her recovery.
What’s Next for Rosie?
Even with all these life changes, Rosie is not stepping away from the spotlight.
Fans can expect to see her on-screen again in the third season of And Just Like That, where she plays a character named Mary.
The series, created by Michael Patrick King, has received mixed reviews, but Rosie’s involvement adds another layer of anticipation.
As she builds a new life in Ireland, Rosie O’Donnell continues to evolve—embracing change, facing challenges, and staying true to herself.
Whether or not she ever returns to the U.S., one thing is certain: she’s writing the next chapter on her own terms.