Why Richard Gere Left the US for Spain – Inside His New Life
Actor Richard Gere is renowned for his contributions to American film. For more than 50 years, the star has captivated audiences with his remarkable performances and fascinating personality, making him a defining figure in Hollywood.
Even so, he has long favored a life away from the never-ending limelight of Hollywood. The next move he’s taking is to leave America completely. What then is the reason for this unexpected action?
Richard Gere’s Legendary Career and New Chapter
With his parts in classic movies like “Pretty Woman,” “An Officer and a Gentleman,” and “Chicago,” Richard has established himself as one of the most adored actors in the business.
He was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on August 31, 1949, and became well-known in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He quickly proved to be a versatile actor who could play a wide range of roles, from lovable romantic leads to difficult characters.
He has won other awards throughout the years, including a Golden Globe for his performance in “Chicago,” solidifying his place in Hollywood history.
But in spite of his success and notoriety, the celebrity has consistently appeared to prefer a life away from the limelight of Hollywood. He has concentrated on humanitarian activities in recent years, using his position to spread awareness of causes like international peace and human rights.
He has made the significant personal decision to leave the United States and go to Spain in order to embrace a more laid-back and family-oriented lifestyle as a result of his passion for meaningful, quieter activities.
Richard talked candidly about his desire to move and expressed optimism for the journey ahead in an interview conducted in early 2024. He disclosed that his family would shortly be relocating to Madrid, a decision that was partly influenced by his wife Alejandra Silva’s strong Spanish roots.
Since I’ve never lived abroad on a full-time basis, I think my trip to Madrid will be an amazing journey. In an interview with Vanity Fair España, he stated, “I think it’s only fair that I give her at least another six living in her world, since she was very generous to give me six years living in mine.”
“Anyway, I believe your way of life is amazing, and I adore Spain. Your capacity to live a happy and joyful life is also important. The actor went on, “It’s a lovely place, the food is amazing, and the people are so giving and sensitive, and they have a great desire to laugh and have fun.”
His young children will have a rare opportunity to connect with their Spanish background and be raised in the same environment that influenced their mother’s childhood as a result of the migration.
It would be great for Alejandra to be nearer to her family and old acquaintances, Richard said, adding, “I’m looking forward to going there.”
The couple’s sale of their Connecticut estate in October 2024 garnered media attention as part of this shift. It was roughly 32 acres of beautiful countryside with woods walks, gardens, a pool, and even a waterfall. Richard had purchased the property from musician Paul Simon and his wife Edie Brickell only two years earlier.
Even if the sale resulted in a minor financial loss, his decision demonstrated his dedication to starting this new chapter. Richard had lived in the posh neighborhood of Pound Ridge, New York, prior to moving to Connecticut. He sold that home in 2022.
Richard and Alejandra are one step closer to starting a new life in Spain after selling their house in Connecticut. There, they will exchange the busy American way of life for Madrid’s peace and cultural diversity.
The Relationship Between Richard Gere and His Family and Life Outside of Hollywood
In 2018, Richard and Alejandra tied the knot in a touching ceremony in Madrid. Since then, the couple has welcomed two children and created a close-knit family.
The actor reflected on their trip and provided a story that highlights their shared ideals and the depth of their connection. He introduced Alejandra to meditation, a major aspect of his life, when she first visited him at his home in upstate New York.
Richard remembered that Alejandra’s interest in his meditation practice went beyond just civility. He said, “She really wanted to know,” referring to the earnestness and desire for understanding that drove her inquiries.
Their shared interest in spirituality and personal development was prompted by that initial curiosity. Alejandra eventually adopted Richard’s Buddhist habits, and their shared love of meditation served as the basis for their relationship.
Although their romance developed away from the bustle of Hollywood, Richard has always had a connection to New York. He has preferred the peace and quiet of the East Coast to the bustle of Los Angeles for the last twenty-five years.
He clarified that he hasn’t lived in California or shot movies in Los Angeles for decades, adding, “The first thing that comes to mind when I hear the word Hollywood is that it’s very foreign to me.”
Instead of concentrating on the demands of mainstream Hollywood, he has shifted toward more independent ventures and important labor. He was also drawn to New York because he wanted to be near his son, 24-year-old Homer James Jigme Gere, who lives nearby.
In 2000, the “Pretty Woman” star and his longtime girlfriend, Carey Lowell, a former “Law & Order” star, welcomed their first child together. He prioritizes being a consistent presence in his son’s life, which he achieved by remaining in New York.
“My life is made more joyful by [Homer].” extremely intelligent, a quick runner, and a music lover. Very amusing. “He picked up irony pretty quickly, which is a great trait for any person,” Richard stated affectionately of his kid.
In an interview with Elle España on January 21, 2025, Richard, who is now completely settled in Spain, gave a glimpse of his life with Alejandra and their kids. He remembered leaving the house one morning to the humorous protests of his children.
“This morning, the kids didn’t want me to go. I told them I was in a meeting when they inquired about their mother,” he said. They also asked me, ‘Where are you going, Dad?’ as I walked away. “To a meeting as well!”
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Richard Gere has chosen a life centered on family, peace, and cultural ties by deciding to move to Spain. Drawn by the prospect of a well-rounded and profoundly satisfying existence in Madrid, he is prepared to leave behind the demands of Hollywood and start a new chapter with Alejandra and their kids.
