Rosie O'Donnell, the renowned television personality and former talk show host, made a brief return to the United States after moving to Ireland with her 13-year-old non-binary child, Clay, in January 2025. The 63-year-old celebrity visited her family for two weeks, marking her first trip back to the U.S. in over a year, as reported by People magazine.
Family Reunion and Personal Reflections
During an appearance on Chris Cuomo's radio show, O'Donnell shared heartfelt details about her visit. She expressed excitement about reconnecting with her children, including one adult son who is expecting his first child soon. "I came back to hold my children again," O'Donnell said, emphasizing the emotional significance of the reunion. She added that the trip was a low-key affair, kept private to assess how it felt to re-enter the country after her extended absence.
Reasons Behind the Move to Ireland
O'Donnell has been vocal about her reasons for leaving the United States, pointing to her longstanding feud with former President Donald Trump and the political climate during his administration. In a video statement last spring, she described these factors as major influences on her decision to relocate. "I don't regret leaving at all. I think I did what I needed to do to save myself, my child, and my sanity," she told Cuomo, highlighting the personal toll of the political environment.
Observations on American Culture
Reflecting on her time in New York during the visit, O'Donnell noted that it felt "like a very different country." She explained that living in Ireland has allowed her to step away from American news and celebrity culture, which she described as overwhelming. "For a year, I haven't been watching the news. I haven't been watching American culture television. I've been in a place where celebrity worship does not exist," she said, underscoring the contrast in lifestyles.
Trump's Response and Ongoing Tensions
The feud between O'Donnell and Trump escalated last July when Trump, now 79, posted on social media that he was "giving serious consideration" to revoking her U.S. citizenship. He labeled her a "Threat to Humanity" and suggested she remain in Ireland. O'Donnell responded on Instagram, accusing Trump of being "a criminal con man sexual abusing liar out to harm our nation to serve himself." This exchange further fueled the public rift that influenced her move.
Future Plans and Safety Concerns
O'Donnell revealed plans to bring her daughter to the U.S. this summer for a visit during the school break, but she expressed concerns about safety. "I wanted to make sure that it was safe for me before I brought my daughter this summer," she stated, indicating ongoing apprehensions about the political and social climate in America. She described feeling a sense of unease during her visit, noting, "The energy that I felt while in the United States ... it was scary. There's a feeling that something is really wrong and no one is doing anything about it."
Despite these challenges, O'Donnell remains committed to her life in Ireland, where she finds peace away from the spotlight. Her brief return to the U.S. served as a poignant reminder of the personal and political dynamics that continue to shape her journey, as she balances family ties with her need for a safer, more serene environment.
