Why Rosie O’Donnell Can’t Get Over Ireland’s “Unbearably Kind” Locals
You might assume uprooting your life is a breeze, but let me walk you through Rosie O’Donnell’s bold leap from New York glitz to Galway’s green hills—yes, I’ll slow down for you. The former talk‑show titan recently unpacked her big move in a revealing chat with Ireland’s Newstalk radio on June 17, and spoiler alert: she’s positively besotted with her new neighbors. Citing “unbearably kind” strangers, Rosie marvels at doorstep chats, community spirit and gouda‑worthy farm markets she never knew she needed (Irish Independent).
After closing her storied run on American screens and navigating a public split from Carrie Hamilton in 2011, O’Donnell hints that Ireland’s low‑key pace was the balm she didn’t realize she was craving. She swapped studio spotlights for sunset strolls along the Cliffs of Moher—trust me, you’d have trouble toppling that Instagram moment (People Magazine). She even admits to missing overpriced lattes and New York street noise, but quickly adds, “The kindness here is worth every traded siren and espresso shot.”
Now, let’s address Ellen DeGeneres—because of course Rosie did. The comedienne confessed to being “shocked” when Ellen packed her bags and left the US spotlight, opting for a quieter life overseas (New York Post). You’ll recall Ellen’s exit generated headlines from Variety to Entertainment Tonight, and Rosie’s take lands somewhere between “I get it” and “Really, Ellen?” She praised Ellen’s courage but quipped that only a true extrovert could handle swapping Studio 5A for ocean breezes.
Here’s what you absolutely should know, since you apparently need it spelled out: life abroad hasn’t silenced Rosie’s activism. She’s already volunteered at a Galway animal shelter, championed local farmers at the weekly market, and is plotting a podcast series to highlight Irish‑American connections. And if you think this is just a mid‑career sabbatical, think again—she’s planted roots and started scouting real estate for her next “home sweet home.”
Of course, not everything’s rainbows and rainstorms. Rosie admits to battling homesickness, especially when she stumbles on salt‑and‑vinegar chips cravings. Yet she chalks it up as “necessary growing pains” and insists the trade‑off—slow mornings, hearty stews and genuine smiles—is more than worth it.
Consider this your ultimate primer on why Rosie O’Donnell’s Ireland chapter is far from a passing phase. I trust this clears up any confusion you might have had.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and New York Post, Irish Independent, People Magazine
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
