Chelsea O’Donnell, adopted by Rosie O’Donnell and Kelli Carpenter shortly after her birth in 1997, faced significant struggles in her life. In 2015, Chelsea went missing, prompting concerns about her mental health and leading to her being found with a man who was subsequently arrested. Following legal troubles related to drug charges and child neglect, Chelsea became a mother of four and began reconciling with Rosie. Despite past challenges, they have communicated more positively. Chelsea’s struggles with addiction continue to affect her family dynamics.
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Chelsea O’Donnell, adoptée par Rosie O’Donnell et Kelli Carpenter peu après sa naissance en 1997, a connu des difficultés importantes dans sa vie. En 2015, elle a disparu, suscitant des inquiétudes concernant sa santé mentale et conduisant à sa découverte avec un homme qui a été arrêté par la suite. Après des problèmes juridiques liés à des accusations de drogue et de négligence envers un enfant, Chelsea est devenue mère de quatre enfants et a commencé à se réconcilier avec Rosie. Malgré des défis passés, leur communication s’est améliorée. Les luttes de Chelsea contre la dépendance continuent d’affecter la dynamique familiale.
Chelsea O’Donnell’s Adoption Journey
Rosie O’Donnell and her ex-wife Kelli Carpenter welcomed their second eldest child, Chelsea O’Donnell, into their family shortly after her birth on September 20, 1997, through adoption.
Disappearance of Chelsea O’Donnell in 2015
In August 2015, Rosie disclosed that her then-17-year-old daughter had gone missing, stating that Chelsea had « stopped taking her medicine and is in need of medical attention. »
Rosie’s representative, Cindi Berger, mentioned that Chelsea was facing mental health challenges, explaining, « Chelsea, like millions of individuals, is affected by mental illness. It’s been a tough path for Chelsea and her loved ones, and they just want her to return home safely. »
Subsequently, Chelsea was located with a man named Steven Sheerer, who was arrested for distributing obscenity to a minor and endangering a child’s welfare. According to Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph Coronato, police discovered « inappropriate communications » between Sheerer and Chelsea after examining her phone.
Chelsea O’Donnell’s Legal Troubles Prior to Arrest
On September 10, Chelsea was arrested in Marinette County, facing charges related to maintaining a drug trafficking location, neglecting a child, and possessing methamphetamine. Authorities responded to a 911 call and described her residence as « unkempt and filthy, » with a « strong odor of animal urine and feces » and « rotting garbage. »
She was released later that month after paying a $2,000 bond.
Just a month later, she was incarcerated in Oconto County Jail, facing new charges including possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine, narcotic possession, obstructing an officer, and felony bail jumping.
After spending three days in jail, Chelsea was able to post bail.
Chelsea O’Donnell’s Pregnancy and Reconnection with Rosie
In December 2018, Chelsea welcomed her first child, Skylar Rose, and her journey into motherhood facilitated a reconnection with Rosie after a challenging relationship.
Reflecting on their past, Chelsea stated, « Growing up, I never really got along with her. Once she kicked me out, I was just kind of finished. I really miss the rest of my family, but I believe some space was necessary between me and Rosie. That has been beneficial. »
Rosie expressed her feelings as a first-time grandparent, describing it as « something beautiful. » She added, « It’s a cliché, but it’s what everyone says — being a grandparent feels like having a baby amplified a thousand times. »
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Chelsea O’Donnell’s Growing Family
Chelsea has since expanded her family, giving birth to three more children: Riley, Avery Lynn, and Atlas.
Rosie O’Donnell on Her Relationship with Chelsea
During a 2018 appearance on The Talk, the 62-year-old Gimme a Break! star discussed the complexities of her relationship with Chelsea, sharing that they endured « very public troubled times. »
Rosie noted, « She’s doing better now, and we’re both in touch with one another. When someone commits an unforgivable act against you and you can find it in your heart to forgive them, along with their ability to forgive you, there’s a special grace that comes to both of you. »
Rosie’s Response to Chelsea’s Arrest
On October 21, Rosie shared a TikTok expressing her appreciation for the support received after Chelsea’s arrest.
She expressed, « To everyone who has shared their similar struggles with a child, spouse, brother, or partner, thank you for helping me feel less isolated. Being a public figure can be challenging, and the children of public figures face their unique hardships. But that’s