A growing number of high-profile US celebrities from Hollywood, sports, and the music industry have chosen to leave the United States and settle abroad. Their motivations range from seeking privacy and safety to escaping political turmoil, pursuing a better quality of life, or simply finding a place that feels more like home. This celebrity migration is now mirrored by a record surge in ordinary Americans applying for UK citizenship, signaling a broader shift in how US citizens view their future and security.
A record-breaking wave: Americans flee to the UK
In the first quarter of 2025 alone, a record 1,931 Americans applied for British citizenship—the highest quarterly total since records began in 2004. Over the past year, more than 6,600 US citizens have sought either British nationality or indefinite residency, representing a 30% jump from the previous year. This surge coincided with President Donald Trump’s re-election and inauguration, echoing a similar spike during his first term and at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Immigration attorneys and UK officials note that many Americans are now seeking “settled status,” granting them the right to live, work, and study in the UK indefinitely—a pathway that increasingly leads to full citizenship.
While some applicants are motivated by family ties, a significant portion are skilled professionals in fields like tech, finance, and healthcare, or individuals seeking a more stable and welcoming environment. This movement is not just about politics; it’s about finding security, opportunity, and a sense of belonging in a rapidly changing world.
Tina Turner – Switzerland
One of the most famous examples is legendary singer Tina Turner, who relinquished her US citizenship and became a Swiss national in 2013. Turner explained, “I feel more at home in Switzerland than anywhere else. I’m very happy in Switzerland and I feel at home here. I cannot imagine a better place to live.” She cited privacy, a sense of safety, and a quieter lifestyle as key factors in her decision.
Rosie O’Donnell – Ireland
Comedian and talk show host Rosie O’Donnell relocated to Ireland with her 12-year-old child in early 2025. She shared, “I never imagined I would relocate to another nation, but I decided it was the best choice for my 12-year-old child and me… I’m content. Clay is happy. I miss my other children, my friends, and many aspects of life back home. I’m trying to create a home in this beautiful nation. When all citizens in America can enjoy equal rights safely, we might think about returning. It’s been heart-wrenching to witness the political climate, which is also personally challenging.”
Richard Gere – Spain
Actor Richard Gere and his family moved to Spain in 2025 to be closer to his wife Alejandra Silva’s roots. Gere told Elle España, “Honestly, you’re seeing us in our prime. We’ve never been happier. She’s content being home, and I’m happy because her happiness makes me happy.” He also noted that after years in the US, it was only fair to give his wife time in her home country.
Eva Longoria – Spain and Mexico
Actress and producer Eva Longoria splits her time between Spain and Mexico. She explained, “I spent my entire adult life [in the US], but even prior to the pandemic, things were shifting. The atmosphere felt different. Then COVID escalated the situation. The issues of homelessness and taxes have contributed to my feeling that this chapter is closed… I’m fortunate to have the option to escape. Many Americans don’t share that privilege and will remain in what feels like a dystopian reality, which fills me with anxiety and sadness for them.”
Ellen DeGeneres & Portia de Rossi – United Kingdom
After the 2024 US presidential election, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi moved to the UK, reportedly seeking a more peaceful environment and greater privacy.
Amber Heard – Spain
Actress Amber Heard moved first to Mallorca and then to Madrid, Spain, after her high-profile legal battles in the US. A source told People, “She gets more privacy” and felt she “just had to get out of the U.S.” following the intense public scrutiny and threats she received.
Lily Collins – Denmark
Actress Lily Collins and her husband Charlie McDowell settled in Copenhagen, Denmark. Collins told Elle Danmark, “Life here is just so wonderful and so calm and bright… I love being able to bike everywhere. It feels like a big city but also very intimate, and everyone is so nice.”
Sophie Turner – United Kingdom
After her divorce from Joe Jonas, actress Sophie Turner returned to London. She cited US gun violence and political changes as reasons: “The gun violence, Roe v. Wade being overturned… Everything just kind of piled on. After the Uvalde [school] shooting, I knew it was time to get the f*** out of there. I’m so happy to be back. I never feel like myself when I’m not in London.”
Lindsay Lohan – Dubai
Actress Lindsay Lohan moved to Dubai in 2014 and has since settled there with her husband. The city’s strict privacy laws and distance from the US celebrity scene were key factors in her decision.
Britney Spears – Mexico
Pop icon Britney Spears has spent increasing amounts of time in Mexico. She told Variety, “Their [the paparazzi’s] treatment has been exceptionally harsh, which is why I relocated to Mexico.”
Jim Carrey – Canada
Actor and comedian Jim Carrey, originally from Canada, became a US citizen but has openly discussed his love for life outside America, particularly in Canada. Carrey has said, “I have no intention of giving up my Canadian heritage, and all those who loved and supported me. My upbringing in Canada made me the person I am. I will always be proud to be a Canadian.” For Carrey, maintaining ties to his home country has been about identity and comfort.
Peter Thiel – New Zealand
Tech billionaire Peter Thiel, co-founder of PayPal, obtained New Zealand citizenship in 2011. Thiel was drawn by New Zealand’s reputation for stability, natural beauty, and its “utopian” qualities, calling it “a haven” in an uncertain world. His move reflects a growing trend among high-net-worth individuals seeking second passports for security and flexibility.
Tom Hanks & Rita Wilson – Greece
Actor Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson became Greek citizens in 2020. Hanks has spoken about his admiration for Greek culture and the warmth of its people, saying, “Greece is a haven… The land, the sky, the water, it’s good for the soul.” The couple frequently spends time at their home in Greece, enjoying the slower pace of life and strong sense of community.
Kobe Bryant – Italy
In the world of sports, basketball legend Kobe Bryant spent much of his youth in Italy and often spoke fondly of his time there. While he did not renounce his US citizenship, Bryant maintained deep ties to Italy, crediting the country for shaping his worldview and approach to life.
These celebrity moves are not just about lifestyle; many cite privacy, safety, healthcare, and political climate as motivations. As dual citizenship and global mobility become more accessible, celebrities are leading the way in redefining the modern American dream—one that values flexibility, security, and personal fulfillment over traditional notions of national loyalty.
With a record number of Americans seeking new beginnings in the UK and beyond, the motivations of celebrities echo those of thousands of ordinary citizens—seeking opportunity, safety, and a sense of belonging wherever in the world they choose to call home.
