Rosie O'Donnell Feels 'Healthier' After Fleeing The U.S. For Ireland, Admits It's Not Been 'Easy' To Move
By Favour Adegoke on March 21, 2025 at 4:45 PM EDT
Rosie O'Donnell revealed that her mental health has improved since moving to Ireland after President Donald Trump's 2024 election win.
The comedian called U.S. politics "depressing" and believes that Americans will reject Trump's "horrific" policies.
Rosie O'Donnell, who left the country on January 15, is seeking Irish citizenship and vows not to return until equal rights are ensured.
Rosie O'Donnell Finds Peace In Ireland After Donald Trump's Re-Election
In a TikTok video, O'Donnell noted that her mental health has gotten better dramatically since relocating to Ireland.
The 63-year-old comedian shared: "I feel healthier [and] I'm sleeping better without the stress and anxiety over what was happening politically in the country."
She also reflected on her long-running feud with Trump, saying, "I was a host of 'The View' and it was my job to talk about current events and politics and when I told the truth about him, he went nutzo."
O'Donnell further expressed pride in her family's "resilience," noting that while adjusting to life in a new country hasn't been easy, moving abroad was the best choice for them.
"They're doing so well here," she said. "It's not easy to move to another country and we really felt as a family this was the safest and best thing for us to do."
"And it looks like, sadly, we were correct for what's happening in the United States is overwhelmingly depressing, unconstitutional, illegal, criminal and so so very sad," O'Donnell added.
The Comedian Criticized Donald Trump's Presidency
O'Donnell expressed relief over leaving the country, saying she's "very happy" with her decision and hopeful that Americans will push back against Trump's administration and its "horrific ideas for what will make America great again."
"It's not racism, and it's not homophobia, and it's equality for all," the "A League of Their Own" star said. "That's what we're promised as American citizens, so let's all remember that."
O'Donnell admitted she couldn't endure another Trump presidency, believing it would take a heavy emotional toll.
She also predicted that his supporters would eventually see "just how cruel he is" and "do something that will stop him."
"Enough with old white guys who don't stand up for what's right, in both parties," she said, noting that the country needs more women in power.
Rosie O'Donnell Vows Not To Return To U.S 'Until It Is Safe For All Citizens'
O'Donnell confirmed that she relocated to Ireland in March after Trump's victory over Kamala Harris in the 2024 election.
She left the U.S. on January 15, just days before his inauguration. "It's been pretty wonderful, I have to say," O'Donnell shared. "The people are so loving and so kind, so welcoming. And I'm very grateful."
With Irish roots from both grandparents, the former talk show host is in the process of obtaining Irish citizenship.
She admitted she never imagined leaving the U.S., stating: "I was never someone who thought I would move to another country, that's what I decided would be the best for myself and my 12-year-old child. And here we are."
While she and Clay are happy with the move, O'Donnell said she misses her other children and friends.
However, she insists she won't consider returning to the U.S. until "It is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America."
Donald Trump Mocks The Comedian's Move To Ireland During White House Meeting
Trump took a jab at O'Donnell during a meeting with Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin at the White House.
During the discussion, a conservative commentator questioned Martin about allowing O'Donnell to settle in Ireland.
"Ireland is known for very happy, fun-loving people," remarked Brian Glenn of Real America's Voice. "Why in the world would you let Rosie O'Donnell move to Ireland?"
Trump seized the moment, smirking as Martin chuckled uncomfortably beside him.
"Thank you. I like that question," Trump said. "Did you know you have Rosie O'Donnell? Do you know who she is?"
Before Martin could reply, Trump quipped, "You're better off not knowing."
Rosie O'Donnell Previously Slammed Trump's Supporters
In 2022, O'Donnell made a post on her TikTok where she expressed joy that the FBI had searched Trump's Florida home and seized any classified government documents.
A TikTok user, seemingly surprised by her actions, commented, "Rosie, stop, you're better than that."
O'Donnell swiftly responded to the comment with another TikTok video in which she called out Trump's supporters.
She said, "Apparently, I am not better than that, not at all, not one bit. Listen, all you got to do is look it up. You're willfully blind if you believe in Trump."
