In a significant move, Hollywood icon George Clooney, his renowned human rights lawyer wife Amal, and their eight-year-old twins have officially acquired French citizenship. This development comes against the backdrop of a shifting political landscape in the United States, following the return of Donald Trump to the presidency in 2025.
A Wave of Celebrity Exits Post-2025 Election
Clooney's relocation is part of a broader trend of high-profile American figures moving overseas after the last presidential election. While Clooney has not explicitly named Trump as the sole reason for his family's move, he has been a long-standing critic of the former president. He acknowledges Trump's democratic victory but remains a vocal opponent of his policies and rhetoric.
The list of celebrities who have acted on pre-election promises to leave if Trump won is notable. Comedian Ellen DeGeneres and her wife Portia de Rossi have settled permanently in the UK's Cotswolds, citing fears over potential changes to gay marriage laws. Rosie O'Donnell moved to Ireland for her mental well-being and is pursuing citizenship there. Actress Eva Longoria now splits her time between Mexico and Spain, stating Trump's win solidified her decision to live abroad.
Other notable figures include British actress Sophie Turner, who returned to the UK over concerns about gun violence and abortion rights, and actor Richard Gere, who called the US a "dark place" after relocating to Spain. America Ferrera and Minnie Driver have also sought stability in the United Kingdom for their families.
Clooney's Reasons: Privacy, Culture, and Safety
For the Clooneys, France offered specific attractions. George has frequently praised the country's stringent privacy laws, particularly those protecting children from paparazzi around schools. He identified this as a primary factor in choosing France, stating it provides a better and safer environment for raising their twins.
The actor also expressed admiration for French culture and language, though he humorously admitted that mastering the language remains a work in progress even after a year of lessons. Amal, who is already fluent in French, aligns with the view that life in Europe offers superior quality for their family.
Despite the geographical shift, Clooney's political commentary continues. He argues that 'Trumpism' is unsustainable in the long run, as it relies heavily on Trump's unique celebrity status. He has also warned that Trump's adversarial stance towards the media poses a genuine threat to press freedom—a criticism Trump has reciprocated by mocking Clooney as a 'fake movie actor' and 'failed political pundit.'
Parallel Move: Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma Seek Privacy in London
In a similar quest for privacy, Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma have relocated to London with their children. The family, including their younger son Akaay who was born in London in February 2024, is reportedly residing in the Notting Hill area.
Sources close to the couple indicate that the incessant public scrutiny in India made 'normal parenting' an immense challenge. In London, they can enjoy walks without attracting constant attention. Kohli has scaled back his international cricket commitments to focus on ODIs, while Anushka has slowed her professional work to prioritize family life. The couple has also become devotees of spiritual leader Shri Premanand Ji Maharaj.
These parallel narratives highlight a growing theme among global celebrities: the active pursuit of a private, peaceful family life away from the overwhelming spotlight and, in some cases, contentious political environments of their home countries.
