From Hollywood A-listers to pop icons, many celebrities have packed up and left the United States in search of a new home abroad. Whether it’s for personal growth, political concerns, or simply a longing for their roots, these stars have found solace beyond America’s borders.
Here’s a look at the biggest names who have said goodbye to the U.S.—including Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan, Richard Gere, and Sophie Turner—and the reasons behind their big moves.
Sophie Turner: Moving Back to the UK After Joe Jonas Split
Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner is one of the most recent celebrities to leave the U.S., moving back to the UK following her high-profile divorce from Joe Jonas.
Why She Left the US
Turner has always spoken fondly of her British roots, and after her split from Jonas, she felt an undeniable pull back home. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, she opened up about how living in America made her feel missing out on key life moments with her friends and family.
“Every city we ended up in, the first thing I’d do was find a British shop and stock up on a month’s worth of chocolate,” she revealed, emphasizing her longing for home comforts.
But beyond nostalgia, Turner also cited political and social issues in the U.S. as part of her decision to leave.
“The gun violence, Roe v. Wade being overturned … everything just kind of piled on,” she admitted.
Now that she’s back in London, Turner says she feels more like herself than she has in years.
“I’m so happy to be back. It felt as if my life was on pause until I returned to England,” she said.
Her return has been especially meaningful because she missed major milestones with her friends, including their engagements and pregnancies.
“I went for dinner with someone the other day, and she said, ‘I never got to touch your belly.’ We didn’t have those key experiences with each other.”
After spending six years in the U.S., Turner is now embracing a new chapter in her homeland, focusing on co-parenting her children with Jonas while rebuilding her personal and professional life in the UK.
Britney Spears: Finding Freedom in a New Country
Pop icon Britney Spears has also recently left the U.S. following her highly publicized conservatorship battle and divorce from Sam Asghari.
Why She Left the US
After finally gaining full control of her life and finances in 2021, Spears has been searching for a fresh start away from Los Angeles’s constant media scrutiny.
While she hasn’t made an official permanent move, Spears has spent significant time abroad recently, with reports suggesting she is considering moving to Europe.
For Spears, the decision is about freedom, privacy, and reinvention—something she struggled to achieve in the U.S.
Lindsay Lohan: A New Life in Dubai
Lindsay Lohan left the U.S. years ago and has never looked back.
Why She Left the US
The Mean Girls star moved to Dubai in 2014 to escape Hollywood drama and paparazzi culture—and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of her life.
In an interview, Lohan revealed that one of Dubai’s biggest appeals is its strict privacy laws, which make it illegal for paparazzi to photograph or harass celebrities.
“I don’t have to worry about people following me,” she said. “I can actually have a private life here.”
Since moving to Dubai, Lohan has completely transformed her life. She happily married businessman Bader Shammas, welcomed her first child in 2023, and even made a Hollywood comeback with Netflix films like Falling for Christmas.
Her life in Dubai is a far cry from the tabloid-fueled chaos of her Hollywood days, and she has no plans to return to the U.S. anytime soon.
Richard Gere: A Spiritual Life in Europe
Veteran actor Richard Gere also decided to leave the U.S. for a more peaceful life abroad.
Why He Left the US
Gere has long been drawn to spirituality and humanitarian work, and his move to Spain was largely influenced by his love for its culture, people, and lifestyle.
He now spends most of his time in Madrid with his wife, Spanish publicist Alejandra Silva, and their children.
Beyond seeking a quieter life, Gere has been critical of American politics, particularly regarding issues like wealth inequality and human rights. His relocation to Europe aligns with his personal values and philanthropic efforts.
Other Celebrities Who Have Moved Abroad
🌎 Johnny Depp – Moved to France for a quieter life away from Hollywood and to be closer to his children.
🌎 Shakira – Recently relocated to Spain and later to Miami, citing personal reasons and a new start after her split from Gerard Piqué.
🌎 Gwyneth Paltrow – Spends significant time in London, where her husband Brad Falchuk is based.
🌎 Angelina Jolie – Has homes in France and Cambodia, prioritizing her humanitarian work and global lifestyle.
🌎 George Clooney & Amal Clooney – Spend much of their time at their luxury estate in Lake Como, Italy.
Why More Celebrities Are Choosing to Leave the US
The decision to relocate outside of the U.S. isn’t just about career moves—for many, it’s about finding peace, security, and a better quality of life.
🔹 Privacy & Escape from Paparazzi – In countries like Dubai, France, and Spain, privacy laws protect celebrities from the relentless media attention they face in the U.S.
🔹 Political & Social Climate – Many stars, including Sophie Turner and Richard Gere, have spoken out about their concerns over gun violence, human rights, and political instability in the U.S.
🔹 Work-Life Balance – Europe, the UK, and parts of Asia offer a slower, more relaxed lifestyle, which appeals to stars who want to prioritize family and well-being.
🔹 Tax Benefits – Some countries provide major tax advantages, which have influenced stars like Johnny Depp and Shakira to move abroad.
