Staff Reports
Rosie O’Donnell, the outspoken actress and comedian known for her long-running feud with Donald Trump, has made headlines once again—this time for leaving the United States and relocating to Ireland. Citing personal and political reasons, O’Donnell moved to Dublin in January 2025, just days before Trump’s second inauguration. Her decision, which she announced in a TikTok video, reflects her dissatisfaction with the current political climate in America and her belief that the country is not yet safe for all citizens to enjoy equal rights.
O’Donnell’s move is part of a larger trend among liberal celebrities who have expressed discontent with Trump’s presidency. While many made similar threats during Trump’s first term, O’Donnell is one of the few who followed through. In her video, she described her experience in Ireland as “amazing,” praising the warmth and kindness of the locals. She also revealed that she is in the process of applying for Irish citizenship, citing her Irish heritage as a key factor in choosing her new home. For O’Donnell, this transatlantic relocation is both a personal retreat and a political statement.
Her departure has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters view it as an act of defiance against what they see as an oppressive administration, while critics—particularly Trump supporters—have mocked her decision. Many conservatives see such celebrity moves as performative gestures rather than meaningful protests. Social media lit up with MAGA-aligned users celebrating her exit, with some humorously suggesting that America is better off without her. The sentiment reflects a broader conservative critique of Hollywood elites who criticize the country while enjoying its freedoms and opportunities.
O’Donnell’s move also raises questions about the role of celebrities in political discourse. While some applaud her for taking a stand, others argue that such actions do little to address real issues facing everyday Americans. Conservatives often highlight the disconnect between wealthy celebrities like O’Donnell and the working-class citizens they claim to advocate for. Relocating abroad may send a message, but it does little to engage with or solve the challenges within the United States.
Ultimately, Rosie O’Donnell’s relocation to Ireland underscores both the deep divisions in American politics and the symbolic nature of celebrity activism. While her move may serve as a personal escape from what she perceives as political chaos, it also fuels ongoing debates about patriotism, privilege, and protest. For now, O’Donnell seems content to trade America’s contentious political landscape for Ireland’s rolling hills—but whether this decision will inspire others or simply fade into another chapter of celebrity drama remains to be seen.
