In a world where personal stories become part of public discourse, Rosie O’Donnell once again proves that supporting loved ones is not just about words, but actions. Ahead of her return to television after an eleven-year absence, the actress and former talk show host shared a touching story about how she is trying to adapt to new communication rules with her youngest child.
A tattoo as a reminder
Rosie O’Donnell, known for her open stance on LGBTQ+ community issues, got a tattoo of the pronoun “they” on her wrist. This decision was a response to the need to constantly remember the preferences of her 13-year-old child, Clay, who in 2024 came out as non-binary and started using “they/them” pronouns.
“I was doing my best, but I still kept saying ‘she,'” O’Donnell admitted in an interview on Amy Poehler’s podcast “Good Hang.” According to the actress, Clay even came up with a funny way to remind her of the correct address: he held up a cardboard sign with the word “they” above his head, like John Cusack in the movie “Say Anything” with a boombox.
However, despite all her efforts, O’Donnell admitted she still made mistakes. “I took her to my cousin’s tattoo parlor with ‘they’ in his handwriting and got it tattooed on my wrist so I would never forget,” she said. Unfortunately, even after that, she used the wrong pronoun again, which made Poehler laugh.
Criticism and support
Not everyone appreciated this step positively. Critics from the New York Post mocked O’Donnell for her “woke ink” and for still misgendering her child. They also mentioned the family’s move to Ireland, which led to threats from President Donald Trump about revoking citizenship.
Nevertheless, many experts and activists supported O’Donnell. Journalist Adrian Corsicone, who shared advice for non-binary teenagers five years ago, noted that it takes time for many adults to get used to new pronouns. “I gave myself a year to adapt after my father learned about my identity,” he said.
Writer Tracy Moore also shared her experience in an article for the Washington Post in 2021: “When I make a mistake, I apologize and correct myself.” She emphasized that it is important not to avoid discomfort, but to accept it as part of the learning process.
Tattoo culture and personal stories
Tattoos have long been a way to express personal stories and values. For many, they serve as a reminder of important life moments or loved ones. In O’Donnell’s case, the pronoun tattoo became a symbol of her desire to support her child and adapt to new communication rules.
This move also reflects a broader trend in tattoo culture, where people increasingly use tattoos to express their identity and support loved ones. Tattoos with names, dates, and even pronouns are becoming increasingly popular among parents and loved ones who want to show their support and love.
Rosie O’Donnell’s story is an example of how personal stories can become part of public discourse and inspire others. Despite criticism and mistakes, she continues to do her best to support her child and adapt to new communication rules. This is not only a personal story but also an important step towards greater inclusivity and understanding in society.
A pronoun tattoo is not just an adornment, but a symbol of love and support. It reminds us that sometimes the simplest actions can have the greatest meaning.