Lights, camera, Europe? The stars making a quiet move

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Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi recently celebrated their 20th anniversary at their multi-million dollar farmhouse in England after leaving behind the glitz and glamour of LA life. This A-list couple joins the wave of Hollywood stars who are finding new homes in Europe, drawn by privacy, creative freedom and a slower pace of life. From sun-drenched villas in France to cozy estates in the United Kingdom, this quiet migration signals a deeper shift in the world of fame.

An escape from the public eye

Fame comes with a price, especially in the United States, where top stars are constantly followed and scrutinized. The paparazzi industry thrives on tracking down celebrities and seeking the latest gossip. In contrast, many European countries have stricter privacy laws and a less pervasive celebrity culture.

In Europe, it is easier for stars to remain undetected and enjoy their daily lives, leading many A-listers to seek refuge across the Atlantic. In the south of France, George and Amal Clooney enjoy seclusion in their stunning villa on Lake Como, while Johnny Depp spends his time in France to avoid the intense media scrutiny of Hollywood. For many celebrities, Europe is a sanctuary from the constant attention of Hollywood.

Relocating amid Trump's administration

The polarized political climate following Trump's re-election, along with issues like gun violence and healthcare concerns, prompts stars to relocate to more stable environments. The "Game of Thrones" actress Sophie Turner returned to her homeland in England, citing social issues as her main motivator. "The gun violence, Roe v. Wade being overturned … Everything just kind of piled on," she told Harper's Bazaar UK. Rosie O'Donnell is another celebrity who moved to Ireland with her daughter after Trump's re-election. She shares on TikTok that she would only consider returning when all citizens have equal rights in America.

A better way of life

The allure of life in Europe is undeniable, especially for stars disillusioned by the intensity of Hollywood. Across the Atlantic, the pace slows and the pressure eases. Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi, for example, have swapped Los Angeles for an $18 million farmhouse in the Cotswolds, a region in the U.K. celebrated for its storybook villages serving delicious roast lamb and tranquil countryside, according to the New York Post. For the couple, the move is about living more authentically in a place where they can focus on personal happiness and creative projects.

Similarly, Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes relocated to the U.K. to raise their family away from the spotlight. Drawn by open green spaces and a strong sense of community, they found the ideal environment for a more grounded, family-focused lifestyle. That shift often includes changes in routine - preparing comfort foods like broccoli casserole or sesame chicken at home rather than relying on Hollywood's fast-paced dining culture. Their decision mirrors a growing trend among A-listers. They want to shield their children from the chaos of being a celebrity and embrace a quieter, more intentional way of life.

Tax breaks pulling in blockbusters

Many European countries provide generous tax rebates and subsidies for the film industry, making the region increasingly appealing to filmmakers and big projects. Hungary, for example, provides a 30% tax rebate on eligible film expenses through its Tax Credit program, attracting major productions like "Dune" and "Black Widow" to Budapest. England has also become a powerhouse for international film production by offering competitive tax relief programs and a highly skilled workforce. This has made England a favored destination for iconic franchises such as "Harry Potter," "Star Wars" and "Mission: Impossible."

As Europe continues to offer both financial and creative opportunities, more stars choose to spend significant time there, with some even considering putting down roots. By living near thriving production hubs, celebrities benefit from career opportunities and a lifestyle that often feels more grounded than Hollywood's relentless pace.

Creative control and artistic freedom

It's no secret that Hollywood can be soul sucking for creatives. Formula over risk is favored, especially when hundreds of millions of dollars are on the line, causing studios to prioritize commercial success over artistic integrity. On the contrary, Europe has deep-rooted artistic traditions and diverse cultural landscapes that have become a source of inspiration for many creatives.

Actors, directors and writers find themselves drawn to cities like Paris, Berlin or Rome for the vibrant art scenes that thrive away from the commercial pressures of Hollywood. Director Wes Anderson is known for his fondness for European locations and filmed "The French Dispatch" entirely in France, where he now spends much of his time. For many, relocating to Europe means exploring their craft on their own terms.

Breaking free from Los Angeles

With the decentralization of the film industry, stars no longer need to be LA-based to succeed. Europe's picturesque cities and financial incentives attract major productions, and celebrities choose to settle down there, where their careers and personal lives can flourish. It turns out that across the Atlantic, you can have it all.

A luxury travel, food and adventure journalist with a passport full of stories from over 46 countries, Mandy specializes in uncovering unforgettable experiences across the globe. With a deep love for the Far East and a diver's eye for hidden worlds, she brings readers along on immersive journeys that blend indulgence with discovery, and she shares it all on Ticket to Wanderland.