Rosie O’Donnell Faces Backlash After Leaving the U.S.

Celebrities Fleeing America

More celebrities are leaving the U.S. or announcing plans to do so. One of them is Rosie O’Donnell. The actress and comedian recently opened up about her decision to move to Ireland.

“It’s been heartbreaking to see what’s happening politically, and it’s been hard for me personally,” she admitted.

Why Rosie O’Donnell Left

Rosie O’Donnell, known for hosting The Rosie O’Donnell Show and The View, officially left the U.S. The outspoken comedian, a longtime Donald Trump critic, moved to Ireland after his 2024 victory over Kamala Harris.

O’Donnell, who has clashed with Trump since 2006, departed on January 15—just five days before his inauguration. Now settling into Ireland, she has begun the process of applying for Irish citizenship, citing her grandparents’ Irish roots.

“It’s been wonderful,” the 62-year-old shared on TikTok. “The people have been so loving, so kind, and so welcoming. I’m very grateful.”

Earlier this month, she hinted at her move, sharing that she had bought a used car to “tool around the countryside on the wrong side of the road.”

A New Life in Ireland

The TV personality relocated with her 12-year-old daughter, Dakota. She has stated she won’t return to the U.S. until “equal rights” exist for all citizens.

Rosie shares Dakota, who goes by the nickname Clay, with her late ex-wife, Michelle Rounds. Her move came just months after Ellen DeGeneres also left the U.S. Other celebrities have voiced similar desires to relocate.

Her Feud with Trump

O’Donnell’s decision to leave isn’t surprising, given her long-running feud with Trump. Their clashes date back to 2006, when she criticized him on The View for being too lenient with Miss USA winner Tara Conner, who faced allegations of drug use.

Trump retaliated, calling O’Donnell a “real loser.” Defending his decision, he stated, “I believe in second chances. Tara is a good person and deserves another chance.”

Their feud escalated. In 2014, O’Donnell told People it was “the worst bullying I’ve ever experienced.” During Trump’s presidency, she openly criticized him, once joking on Late Night with Seth Meyers that she spent “90% of my working hours tweeting hatred toward this administration.”

Trump even referenced her in a 2015 Republican debate. When questioned about calling women names like “fat pigs” and “slobs,” he responded, “Only Rosie O’Donnell,” drawing laughter from the audience.

“This Is a Madman”

Even in the 2024 election, Trump took another jab, claiming The View had gotten “so bad” that producers should “really bring Rosie O’Donnell back.”

O’Donnell fired back on TikTok, warning in a fiery Thanksgiving video, “You can’t forget what he’s capable of… This is not a sane person. This is a madman. Get ready for what’s coming. When democracy falls, fascism takes its place.”

Adjusting to Life Abroad

Not everything about moving to Ireland has been easy. O’Donnell admitted that being away from family in the U.S. has been difficult.

She still thinks about her home country daily. “I hope we can turn things around. I’m counting on all of you to do what’s right,” she said. She also addressed fans who missed her: “I’m sorry.”

Explaining her move, she added, “I just felt like we needed to take care of ourselves, make hard decisions, and follow through. Now that we’re settling in, I was ready to share what’s happening.”

Mixed Reactions Online

Despite calling her experience in Ireland “wonderful,” not everyone supported her decision.

Critics mocked her move. One commenter wrote, “Poor Ireland.” Another added, “Glad she kept her promise! May her friends follow.”

Some questioned her commitment. “I feel bad for Ireland but good for the U.S. If she’s serious, she should rescind her American citizenship.”

Others sarcastically celebrated. “THANK YOU, ROSIE! BEST GIFT TO US WHO LOVE OUR COUNTRY!”

But many showed support. One fan wrote, “I absolutely loved Ireland. I hope you find your peace there.”

Others echoed her frustrations. “I don’t blame her. If I could, I’d leave too. I’m beyond ashamed of my country and fearful for what’s coming.” Another added, “Please don’t forget us. We can’t leave.”

Some were simply stunned. “I can’t believe we live in a world where Rosie O’Donnell has to flee America for safety.”

Whether praised or criticized, O’Donnell’s move to Ireland has sparked conversation. What do you think? Share your thoughts below.