The comedian surprised many people after changing her lifestyle and using a specific medication to lose weight. Her transformation left fans speechless, showing the impact of her new habits.
On May 23, 2025, Rosie O’Donnell posted a snapshot on her Instagram page, proudly revealing her slimmer figure. The image captured the actress mid-performance during a stand-up show, dressed in a green top and dark pants while holding a microphone.
“I can’t believe this is me now,” O’Donnell wrote in the caption of her post. Her followers quickly filled the comments section, expressing their amazement at her noticeable change.
One follower remarked, “It’s just crazy what a difference it makes, isn’t it.” Another chimed in, “You look good you’ve lost so much weight.” A third admirer shared their surprise, writing, “Rosie, I didn’t recognize you as I swiped right by and went back! You look tinier than when I met you a couple years back! Ireland is agree with you in many ways[sic]!”
As comments poured in with admiration, the story behind O’Donnell’s transformation became clearer. Her slimmer figure is partly the result of using Mounjaro — an injectable drug commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight loss.
Taken weekly in the thigh, stomach, or arm, the medication, known medically as tirzepatide, has been used by several public figures aiming to shed pounds.
Alongside using the injection, O’Donnell adjusted other parts of her daily habits to help support her progress. The 63-year-old noted that she was cutting back on sugar and making an effort to stay hydrated.
“My appetite has decreased significantly. It’s probably the meds. And I’m trying to move more. So, all those things combined, that’s what it is,” she explained. Months later, in a TikTok video posted in March 2025, O’Donnell shared more about her recent changes:
“I’ve lost more weight. I am on Mounjaro for my diabetes and one of the side effects is you lose weight.”
@rosie tomorrow night im on irelands best talk show #thelatelateshow with host #patrickKIELTY – im honored and thrilled 😁- so tune in if u like 👍🏽 of its also my 63 rd birthday tomorrow! what a great way to celebrate- find me on substack – ROSIEODONNELL25 – with an orange check #speakkindlytoyourself ♬ original sound – Rosie ODonnell
She went on to explain how her move to Ireland with her 12-year-old child, Clay, shifted her daily routine, “But it’s also because I had a chef for over two years in Los Angeles and I don’t have a chef now. It’s me cooking for Clay and me.”
After adjusting to a new way of eating and daily life in Ireland, O’Donnell also found herself facing another change — her wardrobe. The talk show host shared that she needed to shop for clothes in Dublin so they would “fit better” following her weight loss.
Looking back at years of challenges with her body, O’Donnell spoke openly about how different things now feel. “I’m one of those people who always had a weight issue and now that I’m a size large — instead of an XL or a XXL — I find it shocking. I really do. I find it completely shocking,” she said.
While adjusting to her new size, a shopping trip turned into an unexpected moment of surprise for O’Donnell. When asked what size she wore, she admitted she wasn’t sure anymore. The store staff offered her a few choices, including pants without an elastic waist — something she had worn for years due to comfort.
She explained that elastic worked better for her because of her apple-shaped body and a larger stomach. After trying on the suggested pair, she was informed that the size would be similar to American sizing. Despite the adjustment, O’Donnell mentioned feeling healthier than before.
While speaking about her health improvements, O’Donnell has also pointed to the moment real change began. In January 2023, she shared that her doctor had started her on both Mounjaro and Repatha two months prior, and noticeable results had followed. “One I do every other week and one I do once a week,” she said.
That same month, the New York native revealed on Instagram that she had shed ten pounds since Christmas, adding, “I’m very happy.”
Rosie O’Donnell’s transformation has captured attention, not only for the visible change but for the honest way she’s shared her experience. From embracing medication like Mounjaro to making thoughtful lifestyle adjustments, she has been open about each step.
Her move to Ireland and everyday cooking for her child have also played a role in her new routine. Through it all, O’Donnell has remained candid, showing that even small changes can lead to meaningful progress.