What Happened to Rosie O'Donnell?

Rosie O'Donnell, a prominent figure in American entertainment for over four decades, has significantly shifted her life and career focus in recent years. Her most notable recent development is her relocation to Ireland in January 2025, a decision she publicly attributed to the political climate in the United States following Donald Trump's second presidential inauguration. O'Donnell, known for her outspoken liberal views and a long-standing public feud with Trump, expressed concerns for her own well-being and the safety of her nonbinary child, Clay, in the U.S.

This move marked a significant turning point, as O'Donnell began the process of applying for Irish citizenship through descent, aiming for dual citizenship while affirming she would not renounce her American nationality. Her decision was met with public commentary, including threats from Donald Trump in July and September 2025 to revoke her U.S. citizenship, which O'Donnell dismissed as legally unfounded. Despite acknowledging some 'private pain' since her move, she has consistently stated that she does not regret leaving the U.S., finding a more balanced and peaceful life in Ireland.

Professionally, O'Donnell has remained active. In June 2025, she announced her first major stand-up comedy show in nearly a decade, titled 'Common Knowledge.' This show, which reflects on her move, the cultural shift, family life, and personal realizations, premiered in Dublin in July 2025 and subsequently toured to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Sydney Opera House, and Glasgow, with dates extending into March 2026. She also continued her acting career, appearing in HBO's 'Hacks' and 'And Just Like That...' in 2025, where she plays a character named Mary.

In February 2026, O'Donnell made a quiet, two-week return to the United States to visit family, including meeting her first grandchild, and to assess the safety and ease of travel for her daughter's potential summer visit. During this visit, she noted that the U.S. felt like a 'very different country' and expressed that the energy was 'scary' compared to Ireland. Most recently, in April 2026, O'Donnell publicly denied rumors of an 'epic comeback' to the U.S. to join 'Dancing With the Stars,' clarifying that an Instagram post she shared was an AI-generated fake news story and reiterating her commitment to remaining in Ireland. As of April 17, 2026, Rosie O'Donnell, who celebrated her 64th birthday in March 2026, continues to reside in Ireland, balancing her personal life with ongoing creative projects and maintaining her stance on her chosen home.