In a significant lifestyle change, former talk show host Ellen DeGeneres and her wife, actress Portia de Rossi, have moved from their Montecito, California, residence to the picturesque Cotswolds region in the United Kingdom. This decision follows the November 2024 re-election of Donald Trump as President of the United States, reportedly leaving the couple feeling “very disillusioned” with the American political landscape.
DeGeneres has been vocal in her criticism of Donald Trump. In a 2017 interview on the “Today” show, she stated she would not invite Trump to her talk show, explaining, “He’s against everything that I stand for.”
Additionally, DeGeneres used her platform to critique Trump’s policies subtly; for instance, she discussed the plot of “Finding Dory” to highlight the challenges faced by immigrants under his administration. The actress supplied her voice to the Disney/Pixar hit movie.
These instances highlight her disenchantment and opposition to Trump’s political stance and actions.
The couple had acquired their UK property before the election but expedited their relocation plans following the results. Their sprawling Montecito estate, purchased in 2019 for $27 million, is now being prepared for market.
DeGeneres, who concluded her 19-season talk show in 2022 amid allegations of fostering a toxic work environment, has maintained a lower public profile. In her 2024 Netflix special, she candidly addressed the controversies, stating she had been “kicked out of show business” and became “the most hated person in America.”
Since settling in the Cotswolds, DeGeneres and de Rossi have been seen integrating into their new community, socializing with residents and fellow celebrities, including musicians Natalie Imbruglia and James Blunt. The couple, who renewed their wedding vows in 2023 with Kris Jenner officiating, appear to be embracing their new life in rural England.
Their departure reflects a broader trend among celebrities reconsidering their residency in the United States following the recent election. Actress Eva Longoria has also left California, dividing her time between Mexico and Spain, citing concerns about changes in the state’s atmosphere and issues such as homelessness and taxation. Longoria stated that she feels “privileged” to be able to “escape” what she describes as a “dystopian country.”
Other notable figures have expressed similar sentiments. Singer Cher, who previously mentioned health issues stemming from Trump’s first term, indicated plans to leave the U.S. if he were re-elected. Actress Sharon Stone and singer Sophie Turner have also voiced intentions to relocate abroad, citing concerns over the political climate.
These developments highlight a growing trend among public figures seeking residence outside the United States in response to the current political environment.