Ellen DeGeneres leaving the U.S. has become a hot topic, sparking curiosity about why one of America’s most iconic TV personalities chose to trade the bright lights of Hollywood for the tranquil charm of rural England. The former talk show queen, along with her wife Portia de Rossi, has bid farewell to their luxurious Montecito, California estate and embarked on a transformative journey overseas.
The decision, reportedly influenced by political shifts and personal aspirations, marks a pivotal chapter in Ellen’s life.
However, Ellen’s relocation was not just a whim. It was a deliberate choice shaped by profound changes in her career and outlook. With a Montecito property worth millions now quietly on the market, the couple’s move to the serene Cotswolds underscores their desire for simplicity and renewal. But what led to this drastic lifestyle change?
Why Ellen DeGeneres Left the U.S.
The story of Ellen leaving the U.S. has its roots in the cultural and political shifts of the last decade. According to sources, Donald Trump’s election win played a significant role in their decision to leave the country. Ellen, who often used her platform to advocate for kindness and inclusivity, found herself at odds with the divisive political climate. For someone who thrives on connection and harmony, the rising tension felt like a push toward a fresh start.
The fallout from her talk show’s controversy added another layer to this decision. In 2022, allegations of a toxic work environment tarnished Ellen’s image, and she humorously described herself as “kicked out of show business.” Moving to England, far from the relentless scrutiny of the U.S. media, offered a chance to redefine her identity away from the spotlight.
A Quiet Farewell to the Plush Montecito Home
The couple’s Montecito estate, purchased in 2019, has been pocket-listed for sale. The sprawling property, a testament to Ellen’s taste for luxurious yet cozy spaces, symbolizes a bygone era of Hollywood glamor.
Letting go of this home is not just about downsizing. It is a symbolic departure from a lifestyle built on fame and fortune.
Selling such a high-profile property discreetly shows their determination to shift gears. For Ellen and Portia, the move is not about escaping but about embracing something different – a life centered on peace, privacy, and personal growth.
A New Life in the Cotswolds
Ellen leaving the U.S. didn’t mean retiring to anonymity. Instead, she has crafted a new life in the picturesque Cotswolds, a region known for its rolling hills, historic cottages, and pastoral charm. Trading in red-carpet events for local pub visits, Ellen is now a regular at spots like The Farmer’s Dog, a pub owned by broadcaster Jeremy Clarkson.
This back-to-basics lifestyle aligns with her quest for personal fulfillment, far removed from the pressures of the entertainment industry.
Ellen’s Humor Finds a New Stage
Even as she steps back from the limelight, Ellen has not abandoned her humor. In her Netflix special “Four Your Approval,” she candidly discussed her exit from Hollywood, blending wit with introspection. Reflecting on the challenges of maintaining her famous “be kind” persona amidst public backlash, she proved that her comedic edge remains razor-sharp.
However, Ellen’s departure from the U.S. is not just a celebrity story. It is a broader commentary on reinvention and renewal. Her move demonstrates that even those at the peak of their careers can choose to step back, recalibrate, and pursue a life aligned with their values. For Ellen, this meant saying goodbye to Hollywood’s glitz and the U.S.’s polarized political landscape.