The Roaring Comeback: 5 Shocking New Chapters In Rosie O'Donnell's Life, From Ireland Exile To 'And Just Like That...'

Rosie O'Donnell is currently navigating one of the most transformative periods of her decades-long career, marked by a dramatic geographical shift and a renewed focus on her artistic and activist passions. As of December 2025, the outspoken comedian, actress, and former talk show host has made headlines not just for her signature political commentary, but for her decision to relocate to Ireland, seeking dual citizenship while simultaneously embracing a major television comeback. This new chapter sees O'Donnell balancing her role as a mother of five with a high-profile return to the screen, proving that even after years in the spotlight, her story is far from over. The multi-talented star, known for her candidness and unwavering commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, continues to be a central figure in American popular culture, even from across the Atlantic. Her recent move and professional decisions reflect a desire for a new kind of peace, even as she remains locked in one of the longest-running and most public feuds in modern media history.

Rosie O'Donnell: Complete Biography and Profile

Roseann "Rosie" O'Donnell is an American comedian, actress, producer, writer, and television personality whose career has spanned stand-up comedy, film, Broadway, and daytime television. She is a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, adoption, and gun control.

• Birth Name: Roseann O'Donnell
• Date of Birth: March 21, 1962
• Birth Place: Commack, Long Island, New York, U.S.
• Parents: Roseann O'Donnell (Mother) and Edward O'Donnell (Father)
• Siblings: Third of five children.
• Early Career Highlights: Gained national recognition as a stand-up comedian and appeared on the TV talent show Star Search.
• Major Film Roles: Known for roles in films like A League of Their Own (1992), Sleepless in Seattle (1993), and The Flintstones (1994).
• Television Host: Hosted the successful daytime talk show The Rosie O'Donnell Show (1996–2002), winning multiple Emmy Awards. She also served as a co-host on the controversial ABC talk show The View on two separate occasions.
• Family: Mother of five children, four of whom are adopted: Parker Jaren O'Donnell, Chelsea Belle O'Donnell, Blake Christopher O'Donnell, Vivienne Rose O'Donnell, and Dakota O'Donnell (Clay, often cited as the fifth child, is her adopted daughter Dakota, who goes by Clay).
• Marriages: Married to Kelli Carpenter (2004–2007) and Michelle Rounds (2012–2015).
• Current Status: Active in acting, producing, stand-up comedy, and political activism, having relocated to Ireland in 2025.

1. The Irish Exile: Why Rosie O'Donnell Fled the U.S. in 2025

One of the most significant and surprising developments in Rosie O'Donnell's life is her 2025 move to Ireland, a decision she has publicly linked to the current political climate in the United States. The move has been widely described as a self-imposed "exile," specifically timed with the return of her long-time nemesis, Donald Trump, to the political forefront.

O'Donnell's intention is to secure Irish citizenship, a path made significantly easier due to her strong family roots in the country. Her paternal grandparents were Irish, which provides a clear route for her to apply for dual citizenship. This move is more than just a change of scenery; it represents a profound personal and political statement. By establishing a residence in Ireland, O'Donnell is positioning herself to maintain a voice in global affairs while creating a physical and emotional distance from the political turmoil she finds so distressing in her home country.

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The decision has been met with both support and controversy, especially after Donald Trump threatened to revoke her U.S. citizenship, labeling her "a threat to humanity." O'Donnell, however, publicly shrugged off the threat, viewing it as an expected and un-fazing escalation of their nearly two-decade-long public feud.

2. A New Chapter on Max: Joining the Cast of 'And Just Like That...'

Despite her transatlantic move, O'Donnell is not retiring from the entertainment industry. In a major career announcement that generated significant buzz, she confirmed her role in Season 3 of the Max hit series, And Just Like That..., the sequel to Sex and the City. This marks a high-profile return to scripted television for the star.

In the series, O'Donnell will portray a new character named Mary. While specific plot details are being kept under wraps, her inclusion alongside original stars Sarah Jessica Parker (Carrie Bradshaw), Cynthia Nixon (Miranda Hobbes), and Kristin Davis (Charlotte York Goldenblatt) signals the show's continued commitment to introducing diverse and recognizable talent. This role provides a fresh platform for O'Donnell to showcase her acting chops and reconnect with a massive, dedicated audience, proving her versatility extends far beyond the political arena and the daytime talk show circuit she once dominated with The Rosie O'Donnell Show.

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3. The Never-Ending Feud: Detaching from Donald Trump on Therapist's Orders

The public sparring between Rosie O'Donnell and Donald Trump is one of the most enduring and toxic rivalries in American celebrity-politics. Originating in the mid-2000s during her time on The View, the feud has repeatedly flared up, often dominating headlines. As of late 2025, O'Donnell admitted that her obsession with criticizing Trump on social media had reached a breaking point, leading to a surprising personal intervention.

She revealed that her therapist had strongly urged her to "detach" from the constant cycle of posting about the former President for the sake of her mental health. While she promised to reduce her online political activity, the search results from December 2025 show that her efforts to completely wean herself off the topic have been a struggle, with her commentary continuing to surface. This ongoing, highly personal battle highlights the emotional toll of political activism and the difficulty of separating personal well-being from public commitment.

4. Advocating and Contributing: Her Continued Work as an LGBTQ+ Voice

Beyond the political drama, Rosie O'Donnell remains a tireless and influential advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Having been named The Advocate's Person of the Year in 2002, her commitment to the cause is long-standing. In 2023, she became a regular contributor to the magazine, further solidifying her role as an influential media voice for queer issues.

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Her activism extends to her personal life as a proud lesbian mother who championed adoption rights for same-sex couples during her two marriages to Kelli Carpenter and Michelle Rounds. Her family, including her five children—Parker, Chelsea, Blake, Vivienne, and Clay—are a testament to her commitment to modern family structures. Even from Ireland, her platform continues to be used to speak out on social justice issues, including foster care, adoption, and the rights of the queer community worldwide, ensuring her influence remains global.

5. The Personal Life: Motherhood and the Next Generation of O'Donnells

At the core of Rosie O'Donnell's life is her role as a mother to five adult and young adult children. Her family life, though often private, has occasionally been thrust into the public eye. She is a dedicated mother to Parker O'Donnell, her first adopted child, followed by Chelsea O'Donnell, Blake O'Donnell, Vivienne O'Donnell, and Dakota O'Donnell (Clay).

O'Donnell has often spoken candidly about the complexities of parenting, including the challenges faced by her daughter Chelsea, who has had her own public struggles. The comedian's open dialogue about her family's dynamic has made her a relatable figure for many parents navigating difficult circumstances. As she settles into her new life in Ireland, her focus remains on maintaining strong family bonds and supporting her children through their own life journeys, demonstrating the enduring importance of family amidst her whirlwind professional and political life.