Hollywood Exodus: Six Major Stars Leave the U.S. Amid Political and Personal Shifts

In a trend that reflects both personal choices and broader political currents, six prominent Hollywood figures have chosen to leave the United States in recent years. From Antonio Banderas returning to his Spanish roots to Ellen DeGeneres’ permanent relocation to England, these departures signal a changing landscape in entertainment—one shaped by career decisions, family priorities, and the evolving political climate. While some cite health concerns or retirement plans, others have openly linked their moves to dissatisfaction with the current political direction of the country.

This exodus is not entirely new, but the pace and profile of those involved have drawn renewed attention. The stars’ decisions—whether driven by activism, family, or professional reinvention—offer a snapshot of how Hollywood’s elite are navigating an era of uncertainty. Below, we explore the stories behind these high-profile departures, verified through official statements, media reports, and public declarations.

Antonio Banderas: From Zorro to Spanish Soil

Spanish actor and global icon Antonio Banderas made headlines in 2019 when he suffered a near-fatal heart attack. The incident, which occurred during a performance in Madrid, prompted a reevaluation of his priorities. While he has continued to work in Hollywood—most recently in films like Bullet Train (2022)—Banderas has increasingly centered his life in his hometown of Málaga, Spain.

In a 2023 interview with El País, Banderas explained that his health scare had reinforced his desire to spend more time in Spain, where his family and cultural roots lie. “I realized that life is too short to be divided between two countries all the time,” he said. “I want to be present for my children, my wife, and my work in Spain.” The actor, who has dual Spanish and Mexican citizenship, has also expressed a renewed commitment to Spanish theater, a passion he first pursued in his youth.

While Banderas has not announced a permanent move, his public statements and frequent residences in Spain suggest a significant shift in his professional and personal life. His most recent film roles have included collaborations with Spanish directors, further embedding his career in European cinema.

Ellen DeGeneres: The Talk Show Exit and English Retreat

The fallout from the Ellen DeGeneres Show scandal in 2022 marked a turning point for the comedian and talk show host. After 19 seasons, the show’s abrupt cancellation—amid allegations of a toxic work environment and internal investigations—left DeGeneres reevaluating her career and personal life. The scandal, which involved accusations of bullying and mistreatment by staff, led to a public reckoning and a permanent shift in her trajectory.

DeGeneres and her partner, Portia de Rossi, announced in November 2024 that they would relocate permanently to the Cotswolds, a rural region in England. The move was framed as a fresh start, away from the pressures of Hollywood and the media scrutiny that had followed the scandal. “We’re ready for a new chapter,” DeGeneres stated in a joint announcement, adding that they were excited to explore new creative projects in the UK.

Since the move, DeGeneres has kept a relatively low profile, though she has hinted at future writing and producing ventures. Her decision to leave the U.S. Reflects a broader trend among celebrities seeking privacy and distance from the intense scrutiny of American media. The Cotswolds, known for its picturesque landscapes and celebrity-friendly communities, has become a haven for figures looking to step back from the spotlight.

Tyra Banks: From Modeling to Australian Ice Cream Entrepreneurship

Tyra Banks, best known for her roles as a model, actress, and the face of America’s Next Top Model, has quietly transitioned her life to Australia in recent years. While she has maintained a public presence through her ice cream brand, Tyra’s Sugar, her relocation was driven by a desire to focus on her business and family.

Banks, who was born in California but holds dual American and Australian citizenship, cited Australia’s business-friendly environment and her husband’s professional ties as key factors in her decision. In a 2025 interview with The Sydney Morning Herald, she explained, “Australia feels like home. It’s a place where I can grow my brand without the same level of scrutiny I faced in the U.S.” Her ice cream company, which launched in 2021, has since expanded to multiple locations across Australia and New Zealand.

Banks has not ruled out future work in Hollywood but has indicated that her primary focus is now on her business ventures. Her move underscores how some celebrities are choosing to diversify their careers outside the traditional entertainment industry, particularly as streaming platforms reshape the media landscape.

Eva Longoria: Divided Between Mexico and Spain

Eva Longoria, the Emmy-winning actress known for her roles in Desperate Housewives and Selena, has become a symbol of Hollywood’s political exodus. In the wake of the 2024 U.S. Presidential election, Longoria publicly announced plans to divide her time between Mexico and Spain, citing concerns about the political climate in the U.S.

In a 2024 interview with Variety, Longoria stated, “This country has become dystopian. I need to be able to raise my son in a place where I feel safe and optimistic about the future.” She and her husband, José Bastón, have purchased properties in both countries, with Longoria indicating that she plans to spend equal time in each. Her decision has resonated with other celebrities, sparking discussions about the intersection of politics and personal freedom in Hollywood.

Longoria has not retired from acting but has expressed interest in producing projects that align with her values. Her move reflects a growing trend among progressive celebrities who are choosing to align their lives with countries they perceive as more welcoming to their political and social beliefs.

Richard Gere: A Decade in Spain with His Spanish Wife

Richard Gere, the Oscar-winning actor known for films like Pretty Woman and Chicago, has been living in Madrid, Spain since 2016, following his marriage to Alejandra Silva, a Spanish woman from Galicia. While Gere has continued to work in Hollywood—his most recent film, The Forgiven, was released in 2023—his primary residence remains in Spain.

In a 2021 interview with Jimmy Fallon, Gere joked about his dual life, saying, “My wife gave me about seven years in Spain, and I’m not complaining.” The actor has embraced Spanish culture, learning the language and participating in local events. His decision to live in Spain is as much about love as We see about career—he has cited the country’s vibrant film industry and tax incentives for international productions as additional draws.

Gere’s move is notable for its longevity, as he has maintained a stable presence in Spain for nearly a decade. Unlike other stars who have left the U.S. Abruptly, Gere’s transition has been gradual, reflecting a personal rather than political motivation.

Christina Milian: Paris as a Creative Hub

Christina Milian, the singer and actress best known for her roles in The Princess Diaries 2 and Bring It On, announced in 2023 that she would be relocating to Paris, France with her French husband. The move was framed as an opportunity to immerse herself in European culture and explore new creative projects.

Milian, who was born in New Jersey to Cuban parents, has spoken about her desire to provide her children with a multicultural upbringing. In a statement to People magazine, she explained, “France is a place where I can blend my Cuban heritage with my American roots while giving my kids a truly international experience.” Her husband, who is French, has professional ties to the European film industry, which has influenced her decision to base her career there.

Since the move, Milian has been involved in producing music and collaborating with French artists. Her decision highlights how some celebrities are choosing to align their careers with the growing influence of European entertainment markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are these stars completely leaving Hollywood?

Most are not retiring from acting but are choosing to base their careers outside the U.S. For example, Antonio Banderas continues to work in films but spends more time in Spain, while Ellen DeGeneres has hinted at future writing projects in the UK.

2. How has the political climate influenced these moves?

Several stars, including Eva Longoria and America Ferrera (noted in earlier reports), have publicly linked their decisions to concerns about the political direction of the U.S. Longoria’s statement about the country becoming “dystopian” reflects broader anxieties among progressive celebrities.

3. Are there tax benefits to moving abroad?

Some countries, like Spain and France, offer tax incentives for artists and filmmakers. For instance, Spain’s film industry provides subsidies for international productions, which has attracted stars like Richard Gere and Antonio Banderas.

4. What impact does this have on Hollywood?

The exodus of high-profile stars can influence film production, as studios may need to adapt to a more decentralized workforce. The loss of prominent figures can shift the cultural and political dynamics within the industry.

5. Have any stars returned to the U.S. After moving?

As of 2026, there have been no widely publicized cases of major stars reversing their decisions to leave the U.S. However, some, like Antonio Banderas, maintain dual residences and continue to work in both countries.