Rosie O’Donnell has publicly responded after her daughter Chelsea’s probation was revoked and she was sentenced to prison.
The comedian asked her followers for 'prayers' and expressed her heartbreak over her child’s struggle with addiction.
Chelsea, 28, was previously placed on six years of probation but violated the terms, prompting the court to impose a prison sentence.
Charges, probation, and the sentence
Chelsea, who was adopted by Rosie as a baby, faced multiple felony and misdemeanor charges after a series of arrests between September and November 2024 in Wisconsin.
Those charges included possession of methamphetamine, bail jumping, resisting or obstructing an officer, and child neglect.
She pled guilty in February to three counts: one felony count of meth possession, one count of resisting or obstructing an officer, and one count of bail jumping.
Credit: Bruce Glikas/Getty
Initially, in March 2025, she was sentenced to six years of probation (two years for each count).
Additional misdemeanor charges, including drug paraphernalia and narcotic possession, were dismissed.
On October 22, 2025, a court revoked her probation and ordered her to serve prison time for violating the probation terms.
She had been part of the Marinette County Treatment Drug Court Program, but was removed from the program before revocation.
Rosie’s reaction and public plea
On October 29, O’Donnell shared an old photo of Chelsea and wrote on Instagram: “My child Chelsea Belle — before addiction took over her life — I loved her then I love her now as she faces a scary future — prayers welcomed.”
In a statement to PEOPLE, O'Donnell added: “I have compassion for those struggling with addiction — Chelsea was born into addiction and it has been a painful journey for her and her four young children.
"We continue to love and support her through these horrible times.
"Prayers welcomed.”
The post quickly gained traction, with followers offering support and urging compassion over judgment.
What’s next for Chelsea and Rosie O'Donnell?
Chelsea is expected to report to prison following the October ruling.
Her legal team may consider appeals or motions, but the sentence marks a turning point in her criminal case.
Rosie, who now lives in Ireland with her youngest, continues to call for privacy for her family, while also raising awareness about addiction and second chances.
If you or someone you know is battling addiction, please reach out for help and contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA's) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357) or go to https://findtreatment.gov/