In brief
In a courageous move aligning with her beliefs, Rosie O'Donnell discusses her relocation to Ireland and the personal significance it has for her and her family.
In a video interview from her rented Dublin home, Rosie O'Donnell, the well-known actress and talk show host, shares her thoughts on life in Ireland and the political climate that drove her to make the move. "It’s not my cello," O'Donnell said, humorously noting the instrument that came with her rental. As light filled the room during the afternoon in Ireland, O'Donnell reflected on the day she decided to leave the U.S. for good.Amidst the political turmoil surrounding Donald J. Trump's repeated wins in elections from 2016 to 2024, many celebrities, including Barbra Streisand and Amy Schumer, vocalized plans to relocate if he were to win again. Unlike her peers, O'Donnell followed through with her promise. “I never thought he would win again,” she admitted, recalling the vibrant scenes from packed arenas during Kamala Harris's campaign. With guidance from her therapist, she formulated a real plan for her new life abroad.Currently, O'Donnell is navigating the intricacies of applying for Irish citizenship, a process that has her cautious about public discussions concerning her status. She is, for now, visiting Ireland with her youngest child Clay, who identifies as nonbinary and is on the autistic spectrum. While she expresses anxiety about jeopardizing her application, O'Donnell also acknowledges a profound connection to Ireland’s landscape and culture. "I see reflections of myself everywhere I look," she said, linking her experiences and family roots to the country.Wearing a Claddagh ring that embodies her Irish Catholic upbringing, O'Donnell’s journey highlights her intertwining identities and quests for belonging in a world marked by division and uncertainty. As she embarks on this new chapter in Ireland, the reflections of her childhood echo around her, symbolizing much more than just a physical move; it's a narrative of hope and resilience against the backdrop of shifting political landscapes.
