Rosie O’Donnell Relocates to Ireland, Pursues Citizenship
Renowned comedian and television host Rosie O’Donnell has announced her relocation from the United States to Ireland, where she is currently in the process of applying for citizenship. In a heartfelt nine-minute TikTok video, O’Donnell expressed her gratitude for the kindness and warmth she has experienced in her new community, though she noted a sense of longing for her family and friends back in the U.S.
Political Climate Influences Move
O’Donnell’s decision to move across the Atlantic comes amid her concerns regarding the current political landscape in the United States, particularly with the recent re-election of Donald Trump to the presidency. While she refrained from directly naming the former president, O’Donnell shared her distress over the ongoing political situation, stating, “It has been heartbreaking to see what is happening over there politically and hard for me personally as well.”
The Importance of Equal Rights
When asked about her potential return to the U.S., O’Donnell emphasized that her return would depend on the assurance of equal rights for all citizens. “When you know it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that’s when we will consider coming back,” she explained. O’Donnell made the move alongside her 12-year-old daughter, Clay, and her service dog, Kuma.
Concerns About Media Freedom
In her video, O’Donnell also expressed worries about the direction of American media and its role in upholding democracy, stating, “The mainstream media has been letting us all down in America, where the fourth estate is required to maintain a democracy. They haven’t been doing their job.” She voiced hope for improvements in media accountability before it’s too late.
Call to Action for Americans
Encouraging her audience to take a stand, O’Donnell urged Americans to engage politically, saying, “I encourage everyone to stand up, to use their voice, to protest, to demand that we follow the Constitution in our country, and not a king and not a man and we don’t have cruelty as part of our governing style.”
Advice for Mental Well-being
O’Donnell wrapped up her message with a reminder for her fans to prioritize their mental health. “Protect your sanity as much as you can, and try not to swim in the chaos, if possible,”she advised, acknowledging the difficulty of doing so amidst current tensions. “But I know it’s nearly impossible when you’re there in the middle of it.”