Stars Who Seek Serenity: Hollywood's A-List Retreats to Life Abroad

From Stardom to Serenity: Hollywood A-Listers Find Peace and Purpose Abroad

In recent years, a fascinating trend has emerged in Hollywood: established celebrities are trading in their glamorous lives in the U.S. for new homes overseas. As aspiring stars flock to the American dream, some well-known figures are choosing to escape the spotlight and the stress of fame by relocating to more tranquil locales. While the allure of Hollywood can be strong, many of these celebrities are finding fresh starts in international settings, seeking privacy, better family dynamics, and a slower pace of life.

Eva Longoria stands out as an emblematic figure in this movement. She splits her time between Spain and Mexico, influenced largely by her husband José Bastón's heritage and her own work projects. Longoria recently shared her rationale for leaving the U.S. during an appearance on "The View’s Behind the Table" podcast. Contrary to speculation, she clarified that her move wasn’t politically driven but rather a natural evolution of her career and personal life. Longoria reflected on her time in California, acknowledging the changing vibe before the pandemic and the many challenges from taxes to homelessness, which contributed to her decision to embrace a new chapter abroad.

Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi are another high-profile couple who have opted for a European lifestyle. In 2024, they reportedly fell in love with a property in the picturesque Cotswolds region of England and decided to call it home. Although their move came after the turbulent fallout of the 2024 presidential election, they have not officially confirmed that political factors played into their decision. The allure of charming countryside living, coupled with the desire for privacy and respite from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood, seems to have inspired their new adventure.

Privacy is a significant motivator for many celebrities seeking refuge in foreign lands. Take Lindsay Lohan, for instance. Since relocating to Dubai in 2014, she has reveled in an unexpected sense of normalcy, as this city offers strict laws on paparazzi activity. In a 2024 Flaunt magazine interview, Lohan described her daily routine of caring for her son, attending Pilates, and enjoying park outings like any typical mom. For her, the move represents a return to her essence, away from the relentless gaze of the media that has previously caused her turmoil.

The iconic Janet Jackson exemplifies another trend among stars seeking to balance work and family life. After settling in London around 2016 following her divorce, Jackson has expressed her commitment to co-parenting her son. The singer has remarked that motherhood is her greatest achievement, and by remaining in the UK, she creates a nurturing environment for her child away from the American spotlight. The decision reflects a broader understanding in Hollywood—balancing personal life with professional obligations in a way that supports one's family without compromising privacy.

Lily Collins and her husband, Charlie McDowell, provide another perspective on the overseas trend. The couple decided to make Copenhagen their home in 2023, with Collins describing the Danish city as “wonderful, calm, and bright.” Her reflections on everyday life in Copenhagen highlight a desire for simpler pleasures and meaningful community engagement, steering clear from the chaos often associated with celebrity culture in the U.S. Similarly, Britney Spears shared her own emotional journey in a candid Instagram video, revealing that being the target of aggressive paparazzi led her to move to Mexico for a sense of peace and healing.

In a surprising turn, Richard Gere traded his Connecticut estate for a more culturally rich life in Spain, motivated by his wife's heritage. Following his move, Gere described the happiness he feels in his new setting, where both he and Alejandra can thrive as individuals while nurturing their family. Christina Milian’s family embarked on their own international adventure to France in 2023, embracing the Parisian lifestyle that provides a unique blend of culture, education, and opportunity for their children. She articulated a newfound stability in her family life, made possible through their relocation.

Actor Josh Hartnett's decision to settle in rural Hampshire, England, underscores another facet of the overseas trend: the pursuit of anonymity and peace away from the relentless entertainment industry. He appreciates the local culture that emphasizes community over celebrity, allowing him to focus on family while enjoying a selective acting career.

An iconic figure among expatriate artists, Tina Turner made Switzerland her home as early as 1995, ultimately gaining citizenship and living there until her passing in 2023. Turner's choice illustrates the personal journeys many celebrities undertake as they seek fulfillment outside the bright lights of Los Angeles.

Pamela Anderson’s story adds an emotional layer to this trend. In 2020, she returned to her roots on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, hoping to rediscover herself after feeling misunderstood in Hollywood. Anderson spoke of rebuilding her life through gardening, symbolizing her healing process in a familiar environment.

As these celebrities continue to navigate their lives beyond American soil, they embody a larger narrative—one that champions autonomy, personal growth, and the quest for peace. Their international residences reflect a powerful shift in how fame is navigated, as well as an inspiring exploration of identity across borders. As the lines between career and personal fulfillment blur, these stars prove that sometimes, the best way to find oneself is to embark on a new adventure far from home. With each relocation, they invite fans to reconsider not just the glamour of Hollywood, but also the quiet joy of a life well-lived beyond the flashing cameras.