After a legendary career that made him an American icon, Richard Gere has decided to leave the United States. 

After a legendary career as an American icon, Richard Gere has chosen to leave the United States, beginning a new chapter in his life. This decision is both heartwarming and bittersweet for his fans.

Richard Gere, an iconic actor, has made a lasting impact on American cinema. For over five decades, he has been a defining figure in Hollywood, captivating audiences with his memorable performances and charismatic presence.

Despite his fame, Richard Gere has always favored a life away from Hollywood’s relentless spotlight. Now, he’s taking that preference further by leaving America entirely. The question remains: what’s driving this unexpected decision?

Richard Gere’s legendary career spans roles in iconic films like Pretty Woman, An Officer and a Gentleman, and Chicago, solidifying him as one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors. Born on August 31, 1949, in Philadelphia, he rose to fame in the late 1970s and 1980s, quickly showcasing his versatility in roles ranging from charming romantic leads to complex, layered characters.

Over his career, Richard Gere has earned many accolades, including a Golden Globe for his role in Chicago, securing his place as a Hollywood legend. Yet, despite his fame, he has consistently leaned toward a life away from Hollywood’s glare. In recent years, Gere has dedicated much of his time to humanitarian work, using his platform to advocate for human rights and global peace.

Richard Gere’s passion for a quieter, more meaningful life has led him to a major personal decision: leaving the United States to move to Spain, where he intends to enjoy a more relaxed, family-centered life. In an interview in early 2024, Gere shared his excitement for this new chapter, revealing that he and his family will soon be relocating to Madrid. This choice was influenced by his Spanish wife, Alejandra Silva, and her deep connection to her home country.

Gere described the move to Madrid as an exciting new adventure, noting that he’s never lived full-time outside the U.S. “She was very generous to give me six years living in my world, so I think it’s only fair that I give her at least another six living in hers,” he shared in an interview with Vanity Fair España.

Gere went on to express his admiration for Spain, saying, “In any case, I love Spain and think your lifestyle is fabulous. So is your ability to live with joy and happiness. It’s a beautiful place; the food is extraordinary, and the people are sensitive, generous, and have a strong will to laugh and enjoy themselves.”

The move to Spain also offers Gere’s young children a chance to connect with their Spanish heritage and grow up immersed in the culture that shaped their mother’s life. Gere shared how meaningful it would be for Alejandra to be closer to her family and longtime friends, adding, “I’m looking forward to going there.”

As part of their move to Spain, Richard Gere and Alejandra Silva made headlines by selling their Connecticut estate in October 2024. The property, which Richard had purchased just two years earlier from musician Paul Simon and his wife Edie Brickell, spanned nearly 32 acres of picturesque countryside, featuring woodland trails, gardens, a pool, and even a waterfall.

Although the sale of their Connecticut estate resulted in a slight financial loss, it underscored Richard Gere’s commitment to embracing this new chapter in his life. Before living in Connecticut, he had resided in the upscale enclave of Pound Ridge, New York, selling that property in 2022. With the sale of their Connecticut home, Richard and Alejandra are now one step closer to their new life in Spain, where they plan to exchange the fast-paced American lifestyle for the tranquility and cultural richness of Madrid.

Richard Gere and Alejandra Silva married in 2018 in a heartfelt ceremony in Madrid. Since then, they have built a close-knit family, welcoming two children and continuing to nurture their bond away from the Hollywood spotlight.

Reflecting on their journey, Richard Gere shared a story that highlights the depth of his connection with Alejandra and their shared values. Early in their relationship, Alejandra visited him at his rural New York home, where he introduced her to a meaningful part of his life — meditation.

Richard recalled that Alejandra’s curiosity about his meditation practice went beyond polite interest. “She really wanted to know,” he said, noting how she asked questions with genuine sincerity and a deep desire to understand.

That initial curiosity sparked a deep bond between Richard and Alejandra centered around spirituality and personal growth. Over time, Alejandra embraced Richard’s Buddhist practices, and their shared interest in meditation became a strong foundation for their relationship.

While Richard’s relationship with Alejandra flourished away from the hustle of Hollywood, his connection to New York has been long-standing. For the past 25 years, he has preferred the calm of the East Coast, choosing to live far from the glitz of Los Angeles. “When I hear the word Hollywood, the first thing I think is that it’s very foreign to me,” he explained, noting that he hasn’t lived in California or filmed in Los Angeles for decades.

Richard has gravitated toward more independent projects, prioritizing meaningful work over the demands of mainstream Hollywood. His commitment to New York was also influenced by his desire to be close to his son, Homer James Jigme Gere, now 24, who lives nearby.

The Pretty Woman star welcomed his eldest child, Homer James Jigme Gere, in 2000 with his then-girlfriend, former Law & Order star Carey Lowell. By staying in New York, Richard ensured he could maintain a steady presence in his son’s life, which he considers a top priority.

Richard Gere affectionately described his son Homer, saying, “[Homer is] the joy of my life. Loves music, very fast runner, very smart. Very funny. Pretty quick he learned irony, which is a wonderful quality for any human being.”

In choosing to relocate to Spain, Richard Gere has embraced a life centered around family, tranquility, and cultural connection. Leaving behind Hollywood’s demands, he is set to embark on a new chapter with Alejandra and their children, drawn by the promise of a balanced and deeply fulfilling life in Madrid.