**Sarah Jessica Parker Abandons Pursuit of Irish Citizenship, Focuses on Cherished Visits**
Sarah Jessica Parker, widely recognised for her portrayal of Carrie Bradshaw in ‘Sex and the City’, and her husband, fellow actor Matthew Broderick, have decided to relinquish their aspirations of obtaining Irish citizenship. The couple, both seasoned performers on stage and screen, have long maintained an affection for Ireland, particularly Donegal, where they purchased a holiday home several years ago. Their retreat in the scenic northwest of the country remains a regular destination for family holidays, offering a getaway from their busy lives in the United States.
Despite their enthusiasm for Irish culture and their frequent visits, Parker and Broderick have discovered that their hopes of making Ireland a more permanent base are not feasible under current immigration requirements. After thoroughly researching the application process, the pair confronted the disappointing reality that they do not meet the criteria necessary to qualify for long-term residency or citizenship. As a result, the ambition of holding Irish passports has now been reluctantly abandoned.
Speaking recently, Parker expressed a sense of acceptance about the decision. In an interview with the Irish press, she noted that, while the prospect of becoming citizens had been appealing, it does not diminish their appreciation for Ireland or their joy at being able to visit regularly. She reflected, “We’ve given up on the idea of being able to call ourselves Irish citizens. But it doesn’t matter because it doesn’t affect our love of the country and our time spent there.”
The couple’s longing to embed themselves more closely within the Irish community was partly inspired by those close to them who have successfully made the move. Among these is Rosie O’Donnell, the American comedian and actress, who collaborated with Parker on the latest season of ‘And Just Like That…’, the continuation of the ‘Sex and the City’ legacy. Unlike Parker and Broderick, O’Donnell qualified to relocate to Ireland earlier this year and has spoken openly about embracing her new surroundings.
Reflecting on O’Donnell’s successful relocation, Parker admitted that their circumstances are different. “We’re not in the same position,” she said. Nevertheless, she emphasised a feeling of gratitude that her family is able to spend significant time in Donegal, working their school and work commitments around frequent Irish escapes.
For O’Donnell herself, the move to Ireland was motivated by both personal and political considerations. Together with her twelve-year-old child, she relocated after feeling unsettled by changes in the American political climate. O’Donnell has since extolled the virtues of her new home, sharing that she has felt warmly welcomed by local communities and finds the Irish approach to life both refreshing and comforting.
Speaking to Variety magazine, O’Donnell commented on Ireland’s distinctive cultural attitudes. “People have been so welcoming, so accepting, and they have a different view of celebrity in the culture here,” she observed. She also noted the greater intimacy in everyday interactions, recalling with humour her friendly relationships with local pharmacists and the inclusive spirit she has encountered in small Irish towns.
While Parker and Broderick’s quest for citizenship may have come to an official end, their affection for Ireland appears undimmed. The couple remain committed to their Donegal home, cherishing each visit and the unique sense of belonging it brings their family.
Their experience highlights broader questions around residency and citizenship regulations for international personalities wishing to integrate more deeply into Irish society. It also serves as a testament to the enduring pull of Ireland’s natural beauty and convivial communities, which continue to attract visitors and would-be residents from across the globe.
Ultimately, while legal barriers have prevented the family from formalising their connection with Ireland through citizenship, their story is one of enduring love for the country—one built not on paperwork, but on heartfelt experience and a continued commitment to spending time on Irish soil.