George Clooney and Family Embrace New Life as French Citizens, Leaving Hollywood Behind
PARIS, France — George Clooney, the acclaimed actor and director, along with his wife Amal Alamuddin Clooney and their 8-year-old twins, Ella and Alexander, have officially become French citizens, marking a significant shift from their Hollywood lifestyle to a quieter existence in the French countryside. The naturalization decree granting citizenship to the family was recently finalized, reflecting their deep commitment to their new home.
In a candid interview with Esquire, Clooney, 64, shared insights into the motivations behind the family’s relocation. “You know, we live on a farm in France. A good portion of my life growing up was on a farm, and as a kid I hated the whole idea of it. But now, for them, it’s like – they’re not on their iPads, you know? They have dinner with grown-ups and have to take their dishes in. They have a much better life,” Clooney explained, highlighting the contrast between the frenetic pace of Hollywood and the grounded, family-oriented environment they now enjoy.
The decision to leave Los Angeles was driven by concerns over raising children amid the intense celebrity culture. Clooney expressed his apprehension about the Hollywood environment, stating, “I was worried about raising our kids in L.A., in the culture of Hollywood. I felt like they were never going to get a fair shake at life.” This sentiment echoes broader concerns about the impact of fame on children, as noted by various child welfare organizations.
France’s approach to fame and privacy appears to have been a welcome change for the Clooneys. “France – they kind of don’t give a s— about fame,” Clooney remarked. “I don’t want them to be walking around worried about paparazzi. I don’t want them being compared to somebody else’s famous kids.” This perspective aligns with France’s stringent privacy laws protecting individuals from intrusive media coverage, a stark contrast to the relentless scrutiny often faced in the United States.
Beyond their farm in France, Clooney reportedly maintains residences in England, a villa on Lake Como in Italy, and a property near his family in Kentucky, illustrating a lifestyle that balances international ties with a desire for tranquility. The family’s naturalization also reflects the broader trend of high-profile individuals seeking citizenship in countries that offer a different pace of life and cultural values.
The Clooneys’ move and naturalization come amid increasing discussions about immigration and citizenship policies worldwide. The French government’s naturalization process, overseen by the Ministry of the Interior, requires applicants to demonstrate integration into French society, proficiency in the language, and a commitment to the country’s values.
As the Clooney family settles into their new life, their story highlights the evolving nature of celebrity and the universal desire for privacy, stability, and a nurturing environment for children. Their choice underscores the appeal of rural life and the importance of cultural fit when considering citizenship and residence abroad.
For more information on French citizenship and naturalization procedures, visit the official French Public Service website. Additionally, the U.S. Department of State provides resources on dual citizenship and expatriation for American citizens living abroad.
George Clooney’s transition from Hollywood icon to French citizen marks a new chapter defined by family, privacy, and a return to simpler roots, a journey that resonates far beyond the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry.
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