George & Amal Clooney: Why They Moved to France with Their Kids

George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, have made a significant lifestyle change, relocating their eight-year-old twins, Ella and Alexander, to France. The move, driven by a desire for a more grounded upbringing for their children, represents a departure from the often-turbulent world of Hollywood and the constant scrutiny of paparazzi.

A Simpler Life in the Var

In a recent interview with Esquire, Clooney described their life on a farm in France, a setting reminiscent of his own childhood. “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,” he explained. “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.” This shift towards a more traditional family dynamic is a deliberate effort to shield his children from the pressures of fame.

The decision to leave Los Angeles stemmed from Clooney’s concerns about raising his children within the “culture of Hollywood.” He expressed a fear that they would never have a “fair shake at life” in that environment. “I felt like they were never going to get a fair shake at life,” Clooney stated. “France—they kind of don’t give a s*** about fame. I don’t want [my kids] to be walking around worried about paparazzi. I don’t want them being compared to somebody else’s famous kids.” The Clooneys purchased a former winery, Domaine du Canadel, near Brignoles in the south of France in 2021, transforming it into a private family retreat.

The property, spanning roughly 1.72 square kilometers, offers a tranquil setting complete with a swimming pool, tennis court, gardens, a lake, an olive grove, and a vineyard. Its proximity to Château Miraval, the vineyard co-owned by Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie (currently embroiled in legal disputes), adds another layer of interest to the area.

A Growing Trend Among Celebrities

The Clooneys aren’t alone in seeking a more private life in France. Lionel Richie recently revealed his own plans to establish a residence in the country, playfully suggesting that Clooney “stole” his idea. Speaking to Le Figaro, Richie expressed his admiration for French culture and architecture, stating, “I’m thinking about having a house in France. I often come privately. I love your museums. I’m crazy about architecture, your heritage is remarkable, you just have to get lost walking around with your head up. The countryside is even more fantastic.” He also noted the advantage of experiencing France as a relative unknown, a sentiment echoed by Clooney’s desire to protect his children from unwanted attention.

Richie’s enthusiasm for France highlights a growing appeal among international celebrities seeking refuge from the intense media scrutiny that often accompanies fame. The country’s relatively relaxed attitude towards celebrity culture, combined with its rich history and natural beauty, makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a more balanced lifestyle.

The Clooneys’ commitment to France extends beyond simply residing there. In December 2025, George and Amal Clooney, along with their twins, officially obtained French citizenship, as reported in the Journal officiel. This move solidifies their long-term plans and demonstrates a deep integration into French society.

Amal Clooney has also spoken about the importance of creating private spaces for her family, revealing that she often collects guests’ phones upon arrival at their home. “Creating private moments and spaces is becoming increasingly difficult,” she told Glamour magazine. “But that’s also why we entertain a lot at home.” This proactive approach to privacy underscores the couple’s dedication to providing their children with a normal upbringing, shielded from the pervasive influence of social media and celebrity culture.

The Clooneys’ decision to embrace French citizenship and a quieter life in the countryside represents a significant shift for the Hollywood power couple. It’s a move motivated by a desire to prioritize their children’s well-being and offer them a chance to grow up away from the glare of the spotlight. Their story, alongside that of Lionel Richie, speaks to a broader trend of celebrities seeking refuge and a more authentic existence in France, a country that seemingly offers both beauty and a degree of anonymity.