In recent years, a growing number of celebrities have packed their bags and left the United States, with many vowing never to return. From talk show host Ellen DeGeneres to actresses Eva Longoria and Sophie Turner, these stars are trading their lives in the US for new homes abroad. While political shifts, societal challenges, and personal reasons are driving these moves, the trend raises questions about the state of the nation and its appeal to even the wealthiest and most privileged citizens.
Political Turmoil: A Major Catalyst for Celebrity Departures
Donald Trump won the 2024 US election (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
The 2024 US presidential election, which saw Donald Trump return to power for a second term, has been a pivotal factor in these celebrity exits. With Trump poised to become America’s 47th president in January 2025, the political climate has shifted dramatically, leaving many feeling alienated.
Eva Longoria, known for her role in Desperate Housewives, expressed her concerns openly. In an interview with Marie Claire, she stated, “If he keeps his promises, it’s going to be a scary place.” Longoria’s remarks reflect a sentiment shared by many Americans who are apprehensive about Trump’s policies and their potential impact on the country’s social fabric.
While Longoria clarified on The View that her move wasn’t solely about Trump, she acknowledged the divisive rhetoric in the US, which has fueled anxiety among citizens. “People just grabbed some clickbait stuff to be divisive,” she said. Despite her clarification, the timing of her move, splitting her time between Spain and Mexico, underscores a growing discomfort with the direction of the nation.
Ellen DeGeneres: A Permanent Move Abroad
Former talk show host Ellen DeGeneres and her wife, Portia de Rossi, are among the most notable names to leave the US. The couple has reportedly settled in the Cotswolds, a picturesque region in the UK, and sources suggest they have no intention of returning—especially not while Trump remains president.
For DeGeneres, the decision seems rooted in a mix of political dissatisfaction and personal evolution. In her recent Netflix comedy special, she joked, “I got kicked out of show business,” hinting at her complex relationship with the entertainment industry and her reasons for seeking a quieter life abroad.
The Cotswolds, known for its tranquil countryside and privacy, offers a stark contrast to the intensity of Hollywood. For DeGeneres and de Rossi, the move symbolizes a fresh start, far from the political and cultural turmoil in the US.
Sophie Turner: Escaping for Safety and Rights
Eva Longoria no longer resides in the US, and splits her time between Spain and Mexico (Mark Von Holden/Variety via Getty Images)
Sophie Turner, the Game of Thrones actress, also made headlines with her return to the UK following her split from Joe Jonas. Turner cited concerns over gun violence and the erosion of women’s rights as significant reasons for leaving the US.
As a mother, Turner’s fears reflect a broader concern among many Americans about the safety and future of their children in a country grappling with frequent mass shootings and restrictive policies on women’s reproductive rights. Moving back to the UK, where she grew up, offers her a sense of familiarity and security.
America Ferrera: Considering a Move to London
Rumors suggest that Barbie actress America Ferrera may be the next celebrity to relocate. According to sources, Ferrera is reportedly scouting schools in London for her children, indicating that she’s seriously considering a move abroad.
Although Ferrera has yet to publicly comment on her reasons, the timing coincides with the increasing challenges in the US, including political instability and social polarization. For stars like Ferrera, the allure of a stable and culturally rich environment in cities like London is undeniable.
The Broader Trend: A Symbol of Discontent
These high-profile moves are not just about individual preferences—they highlight a broader discontent among Americans, particularly those with the means to leave. Issues such as gun violence, the rollback of women’s rights, and the divisive political climate are pushing people to consider alternatives.
Eva Longoria’s statement about being “privileged” to escape resonates deeply. While celebrities have the resources to relocate and rebuild their lives abroad, most Americans are left to face the challenges of a nation undergoing significant change. This disparity underscores the frustration of those who feel trapped in a system that seems increasingly hostile to their values and well-being.
The Allure of Life Abroad
For many celebrities, moving abroad offers more than just an escape—it’s an opportunity to embrace a different lifestyle. Countries like the UK, Spain, and Mexico provide a slower pace of life, cultural richness, and a sense of safety that’s becoming harder to find in the US.
The UK, in particular, has become a popular destination. With its blend of modern amenities and historical charm, cities like London and rural areas like the Cotswolds offer privacy and a more stable political environment. For stars like DeGeneres and Turner, the UK represents a chance to step away from the spotlight and live a more grounded existence.
A Turning Point for the US?
The wave of celebrity departures raises questions about the future of the United States. When some of the most influential and successful individuals choose to leave, it’s a stark reminder of the challenges facing the nation. While the political landscape has always been a source of division, the current climate feels uniquely volatile, prompting even the most privileged to seek refuge elsewhere.
As Trump’s presidency begins in 2025, it remains to be seen how many more will follow in the footsteps of Ellen DeGeneres, Eva Longoria, and Sophie Turner. Their decisions to leave are both personal and symbolic, reflecting a deeper struggle with the state of the nation.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Celebrities Abroad
The decision to leave one’s home country is never easy, even for those with the means to do so. For celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres, Sophie Turner, and Eva Longoria, moving abroad represents a fresh start, free from the challenges that have made the US feel increasingly unlivable for some.
While their stories are unique, they share a common thread: a desire for safety, stability, and a better quality of life. Whether it’s the charm of the Cotswolds, the cultural richness of Spain, or the familiarity of the UK, these destinations offer a reprieve from the chaos many feel at home.
As the US continues to grapple with its identity and direction, the trend of celebrity departures serves as both a critique and a cautionary tale. For now, these stars are writing new chapters in their lives, far from the country they once called home.