Rosie O'Donnell, the renowned 62-year-old actress and comedian, recently announced her relocation from the United States to Ireland. On January 15, she embarked on this significant journey, accompanied by her youngest daughter, Dakota, and her autism service dog, Kuma. The New York native revealed her life update through a TikTok video, where she expressed her motivations and emotions behind the move.
O'Donnell, who shares four older children—Parker, Chelsea, Blake, and Vivienne—with her ex-wife Kelli Carpenter, cited the desire for a better life for her family as the primary reason for her relocation. Her youngest daughter Dakota is from her late ex-wife Michelle Rounds. She is currently pursuing Irish citizenship, leveraging her grandparents' Irish heritage. The decision to relocate was not easy for O'Donnell, who admitted to missing her older children and former home in the United States.
"Although 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," – Rosie O'Donnell
In Ireland, O'Donnell has found solace among the loving and kind people she has encountered. She is in the process of making new friends, including one named Tom, who has helped her explore Dublin, the Irish capital. Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new environment, O'Donnell remains optimistic about her family's future in Ireland.
"I miss my other kids. I miss my friends. I miss many things about life there at home. And I'm trying to find a home here in this beautiful country," – Rosie O'Donnell
While settling into her new surroundings, O'Donnell's decision is also influenced by the current political and societal climate in the United States. She expressed intentions to remain in Ireland until conditions change to ensure equal rights for all citizens back home.
"When it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that's when we will consider coming back," – Rosie O'Donnell
The move marks a significant chapter in O'Donnell's life and career. Though she acknowledges the difficulties of leaving behind familiar faces and places, the actress remains committed to providing a nurturing environment for Dakota.
"The personal is political, as we all know," – Rosie O'Donnell
