Former talk show host Rosie O'Donnell has expressed surprise regarding fellow comedian Ellen DeGeneres' decision to move across the Atlantic, joining a growing trend of US celebrities relocating abroad. O'Donnell herself recently moved to Ireland, citing political reasons tied to the current administration.
O'Donnell, known for being a political person throughout her career, was candid about her reasons for leaving the United States. She confirmed her move to Dublin in January, explaining that changes implemented since President Donald Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20 were a major factor in her decision to seek residency elsewhere.
DeGeneres, conversely, has not publicly stated her motivations for departing the US. While a source told PEOPLE in November 2024 that the move followed house hunting in England, DeGeneres has offered no public political commentary on the matter. Some reports, however, have linked her relocation to the outcome of the 2024 election.
O'Donnell found it unexpected that DeGeneres might have left due to perceived political shifts, noting that she had "never really known Ellen to say anything political in her life." This contrast highlights their different public approaches to political matters, despite both choosing to leave the US.
Beyond politics, O'Donnell acknowledged a history of tension between the two comedians. She recounted an instance from 2022 on Watch What Happens Live where DeGeneres allegedly claimed not to know her during an appearance on Larry King's show, despite years of shared history in the entertainment world.
The comment reportedly hurt O'Donnell, leading to lingering awkwardness. Although DeGeneres reportedly apologized via text later, O'Donnell stated in 2023 that she had not been ready to fully forgive the incident, saying she didn't trust DeGeneres "to be in my world."
Despite this unresolved past, Rosie O'Donnell stated she holds no malice towards DeGeneres. She emphasized a desire to support other gay women in the industry, particularly given the current climate affecting the LGBTQIA+ community.
O'Donnell believes gay comedians have ample space in the world and should support one another, especially as segments of the LGBTQIA+ community, including trans people, face increased scrutiny. She highlighted the importance of the community protecting its vulnerable members.
While O'Donnell has moved to Ireland and DeGeneres has relocated to the UK, the two remain distant. O'Donnell noted they are "not really in each other’s worlds" now but reiterated her wish for DeGeneres' well-being.
Reflecting on their differing paths and public personas, O'Donnell concluded, "We’re just very different people. We have had some stuff in the past that we never resolved. ... but I wish her the best. I seriously do."
