In a heartfelt TikTok video posted on Tuesday, actress and comedian Rosie O’Donnell revealed that she and her 12-year-old child, Clay, moved to Ireland in mid-January. The decision, she explained, was driven by her desire to create a safer and more welcoming environment for her family.
“I never imagined I’d move to another country, but I decided it was the best choice for me and my child,” O’Donnell shared in the video. The move took place on January 15, and she is currently in the process of obtaining Irish citizenship through her Irish grandparents.
O’Donnell expressed her gratitude for the warm reception she and Clay have received in Ireland. “It’s been pretty wonderful, I have to say. The people are so loving, kind, and welcoming. I’m very grateful,” she said. However, she also admitted to missing her other children, friends, and aspects of life back in the U.S.
The “League of Their Own” star didn’t shy away from addressing the political climate in America as a key factor in her decision. “It’s been heartbreaking to see what’s happening politically, and it’s been hard for me personally as well. As we all know, the personal is political,” she said. O’Donnell emphasized that she and Clay would consider returning to the U.S. only when it becomes a place where “all citizens have equal rights.”
O’Donnell explained that she waited to share the news of her move until she and Clay were settled. “I felt like we needed to take care of ourselves, make some tough decisions, and follow through. Now that we’re getting settled, I was ready to post this and let everyone know what’s been going on,” she said.
