In an ever-changing political landscape, the decision to pack up and move to another country comes naturally for some. While the notion of relocating due to politics might be daunting for the average person, celebrities have both the means and the motivations to make such decisions. Let’s explore the stories of 18 celebrities who either left the U.S. for political reasons or seriously contemplated it.
A Sobering Reality: James Cameron’s Commitment to New Zealand
Renowned director James Cameron took a stand by relocating to Wellington, New Zealand. Describing the political climate in the U.S. under Trump’s administration as “like watching a car crash over and over,” Cameron has committed to obtaining New Zealand citizenship. For Cameron, the change wasn’t just geographical but philosophical, investing deeply in his adopted home.
Unfulfilled Plans: Chelsea Handler and Her Canadian Retreat
Chelsea Handler’s love for Whistler, British Columbia, burgeoned amid her political uncertainties. Although her initial plans to move to Spain never materialized, her frequent retreats to Canada offered a comforting escape from the political upheaval back home. Handler’s journey reflects how the idea of leaving spurred significant personal changes.
Young and Relocated: Vivian Wilson and Her Tokyo Adventure
Model Vivian Wilson shared her struggle with the U.S. political climate in a social media post after the 2024 election, revealing her eventual relocation to Tokyo. This highlights how political decisions affect a diverse range of people, eliciting introspection and sometimes major life changes.
Rosie O’Donnell’s Irish Sojourn: A Search for Safe Haven
For Rosie O’Donnell, moving to Ireland was a quest for peace amid political turmoil. Her TikTok updates revealed a heartfelt journey, seeking equality and safety for her family. The sentiment of home, she admits, has become more multifaceted with the influence of politics.
Staying Put with Future Hopes: Ellen DeGeneres in the Cotswolds
Ellen DeGeneres, alongside her wife Portia de Rossi, moved to the Cotswolds, driven by concerns over the political trajectory regarding gay marriage rights. Their decision, made after Trump’s re-election, embodied their hope for a more inclusive society, showcasing that political decisions often extend into personal realms.
Laverne Cox’s Emerging Concerns
Laverne Cox, amidst growing anxiety over anti-trans legislation, has considered moving abroad, concerned as much for personal safety as for access to necessary medical treatments. Her story reflects a broader fear, shared by many, over encroaching restrictions.
Reflecting on Today’s Climate: Ne-Yo and Cher’s Distant Dreams
While Cher and Ne-Yo have yet to follow their earlier musings about leaving the U.S., their sentiments underscore the profound impact of political events. Both have expressed strong emotions toward finding solace elsewhere, illustrating the extent of influence political decisions can have on public figures.
As these stories show, the intersection of personal beliefs and political realities can lead to drastic decisions and life-altering transitions. According to BuzzFeed, such narratives underscore a blend of choice, necessity, and hope in pursuit of a better tomorrow.