Rosie O'Donnell's Journey to Ireland

Rosie O'Donnell has opened up about her mental health improvement since relocating to Ireland, stating that leaving the United States following President Trump's election was a necessary step for her well-being. The beloved comedian, now 63, shared her sentiments during a recent TikTok video where she expressed profound relief from the stress and anxiety tied to the political climate back home.

Health and Well-being

O'Donnell candidly reflected on her experience, saying, 'I feel healthier [and] I’m sleeping better without the stress and anxiety over what was happening politically in the country.' During her tenure as a co-host on 'The View,' she often spoke out against Trump's policies, which led to what she describes as a 'feud' with the former president.

Adapting to New Life

Residing in Ireland, O'Donnell feels a sense of pride for her family's resilience in adapting to their new surroundings. She emphasized the challenges of relocating to another country but confidently stated, 'We really felt as a family this was the safest and best thing for us to do.'

Political Disillusionment

The actress and comedian has been outspoken about her disillusionment with the political situation in the U.S., describing it as 'overwhelmingly depressing, unconstitutional, illegal, criminal, and so, so very sad.' In her video, she expressed hope for a future where the nation rallies against harmful ideologies that she believes threaten the core values of equality and justice.

Looking Forward

'I knew I couldn’t [live in the U.S.],' O'Donnell admitted, explaining her desire to avoid the emotional toll of a Trump presidency. She is optimistic that voters will eventually realize the negative impacts of his leadership and work towards change, emphasizing the need for more diverse voices in politics, particularly women.

Life in Ireland

Confirming her move to Ireland in March, O'Donnell revealed that she left just days before Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025. She described her new life as 'pretty wonderful,' adding that the Irish people have been welcoming and kind, which has enriched her family’s experience abroad.

Embracing Heritage and Family

O'Donnell, who is in the process of obtaining Irish citizenship, proudly shares her heritage, as both her grandparents hailed from Ireland. While she finds happiness in her new life with her 12-year-old non-binary child, Dakota—whom she affectionately refers to as Clay—she acknowledges the difficulty of being away from her other children and friends.

Hope for the Future

'When it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that’s when we will consider coming back,' she concluded, expressing her deep-seated hope for a more equitable future in the United States.

A Larger Trend

The changes in O'Donnell’s life highlight a growing trend of individuals seeking solace and stability far from the tumultuous political environment that has defined recent years in America—a sentiment many can resonate with during these trying times.