Why Richard Gere Decided to Leave the US and Relocate to Spain

After a legendary career that made him an American icon, Richard Gere has decided to leave the United States. This marks the start of a new chapter — one that’s as heartwarming as it is bittersweet for his fans.

Richard Gere is an iconic actor whose work has left a lasting mark on American cinema. The star has remained a defining figure in Hollywood for over five decades, captivating audiences with his striking performances and charismatic presence.

Richard Gere, circa 1996. | Source: Getty Images

Yet despite his fame, he’s long preferred a life outside Hollywood’s constant spotlight. Now, he’s taking an even bigger step — leaving America altogether. So what’s behind this surprising move?

Richard Gere, circa 2007. | Source: Getty Images

A Legendary Career and a New Chapter for Richard Gere

Known for his roles in iconic films like “Pretty Woman,” “An Officer and a Gentleman,” and “Chicago,” Richard has become one of the industry’s most beloved actors.

Born on August 31, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he rose to fame in the late 1970s and 1980s, swiftly establishing himself as a versatile talent capable of portraying everything from dashing romantic leads to deeply complex characters.

Richard Gere at the American Museum of the Moving Image Salute to Sidney Lumet on November 11, 1985, in New York. | Source: Getty Images

Over the years, he has accumulated numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe for his role in “Chicago,” cementing his status as a Hollywood legend.

However, despite his fame and success, the star has always seemed to gravitate toward a life outside the Hollywood spotlight. In recent years, he has focused on humanitarian work, using his platform to raise awareness on issues like human rights and global peace.

Richard Gere at the 27th annual Night of Stars event on October 28, 2010, in New York. | Source: Getty Images

This passion for meaningful, quieter pursuits has led him to an important personal decision: leaving the United States and moving to Spain, where he plans to embrace a more relaxed and family-centered life.

During an interview in early 2024, Richard opened up about his decision to relocate, expressing excitement for the adventure that lies ahead. He revealed that his family would soon be moving to Madrid — a choice inspired, in part, by his Spanish wife, Alejandra Silva,and her strong ties to the country.

“For me, going to Madrid is going to be a great adventure because I’ve never lived full-time outside the United States. 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 said during an interview with Vanity Fair España.

“In any case, I love Spain and I 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 so sensitive and generous and have a strong will to laugh and enjoy themselves,” the actor contuined.

The move also presents a unique opportunity for his young children to connect with their Spanish heritage and grow up surrounded by the culture that shaped their mother’s life.

Richard expressed how wonderful it would be for Alejandra to be closer to her family and longtime friends, adding, “I’m looking forward to going there.”

Richard and Alejandra Gere during the 64th International Film Festival of San Sebastian on October 6, 2016, in Spain. | Source: Getty Images

As part of this transition, the couple made headlines when they sold their Connecticut estate in October 2024. The property, which Richard had bought just two years prior from musician Paul Simon and his wife Edie Brickell, featured nearly 32 acres of stunning countryside, complete with woodland trails, gardens, a pool, and even a waterfall.

Though the sale marked a slight financial loss, the decision reflected his commitment to moving forward with this new chapter. Before settling in Connecticut, Richard had lived in the upscale enclave of Pound Ridge, New York, before selling that property in 2022.

With the sale of their Connecticut home, Richard and Alejandra are one step closer to their new life in Spain, where they’ll trade the bustling American lifestyle for the tranquility and cultural richness of Madrid.

Richard Gere photographed on October 24, 2018, in Madrid, Spain. | Source: Getty Images

Richard Gere’s Bond with Family and Life Away from Hollywood

Richard and Alejandra married in 2018 in a heartfelt ceremony in Madrid. Since then, the couple has built a close-knit family, welcoming two children.

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

As Richard recalled, Alejandra’s curiosity about his meditation practice was more than polite interest. “She really wanted to know,” he said, describing how she asked questions that came from a place of deep sincerity and a desire for understanding.

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

While their relationship blossomed away from the hustle of Hollywood, Richard’s connection to New York has been longstanding. For the past 25 years, he’s chosen to live far from the glitz of Los Angeles, favoring the calm of the East Coast.

“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 Gere on the set of “Time Out of Mind” on March 26, 2014, in New York. | Source: Getty Images

He’s gravitated toward more independent projects, focusing on meaningful work rather than the demands of mainstream Hollywood. Part of his commitment to New York also stemmed from a desire to be close to his son, Homer James Jigme Gere, now 24, who lives nearby.

Richard Gere and his son Homer at the Utah Jazz vs New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden on March 7, 2011, in New York. | Source: Getty Images

The “Pretty Woman” star welcomed his eldest child in 2000 with his then-girlfriend of several years and former “Law & Order” star Carey Lowell. By staying in New York, he maintained a steady presence in his son’s life, which he considers a priority.

Richard Gere and his son Homer James Jigme at the ballet performance of “Mahakarya Borobudur” on June 26, 2011, in Indonesia. | Source: Getty Images

“[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,” Richard lovingly said of his son.

Homer James Jigme and Richard Gere at the “Oh, Canada” red carpet during the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 17, 2024, in France. | Source: Getty Images

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