Since the contentious 2016 US presidential election and even more so after Donald Trump’s victory for his second term, several celebrities have voiced their intent to move out of America, citing political reasons.
Among them is veteran comedian and actress Rosie O'Donnell, who confirmed her relocation to Ireland on January 15, 2025, just days before Trump's inauguration. "Although I was never someone who thought I would move to another country, that's what I decided would be the best for myself and my 12-year-old child," O'Donnell stated on TikTok, illustrating the deep personal motivations behind her decision. She expressed the hope of returning to the US only when it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights.
Following the election results, fellow star Ellen DeGeneres, along with her wife Portia de Rossi, traded the sun-soaked vistas of California for the picturesque Cotswolds, England. The comedian put her Montecito home on the market shortly after their move, reportedly feeling "very disillusioned" with Trump's win. Sources indicated they are firmly settled, with DeGeneres even putting her last properties up for sale to secure their future abroad.
Sophie Turner, best known for her role as Sansa Stark on Game of Thrones, has also made the switch back to her homeland, reflecting on her struggles with gun violence and the overturning of Roe v Wade as significant factors. "After the Uvalde shooting, I knew it was time to get the f** out of there," Turner shared with Harper's Bazaar.
Barbra Streisand has long been outspoken against Trump, openly expressing her desire to leave the country if he were to be reelected. Although currently residing in Northern California, she insisted, "I can't live in this country if he became president," indicating her commitment to political freedom.
Pop icon Cher also elicited headlines with her threats of relocating abroad, stating dramatically, "I'm gonna have to leave the planet" if Trump won. Despite the fervor expressed during the previous elections, Cher has yet to fulfill her promise but remains vocal against Trump’s policies.
Even Laverne Cox, known for her work on Orange Is the New Black, discussed the fear of living as part of the transgender community under Trump's administration. "I don’t want to be in too much fear, but I’m scared... I feel like I could be targeted," Cox admitted on Just for Variety*, reflecting the wider angst shared among many celebrity figures.
Lena Dunham, who previously threatened to leave for Canada, later decided to stay and fight for her beliefs from within the country, swaying between the personal and political. Still, she concluded her recent move to London was influenced by work opportunities following Trump’s re-election.
This phenomenon of high-profile relocations resonates with the general public as increased online search interest for moving abroad surged dramatically after the 2024 election. Immigration services noted over 300% growth in consultations post-election, indicating widespread anxiety among Americans about the political climate.
The White House's response to celebrities leaving has been dismissive, with assistant press secretary Taylor Rogers quipping to Business Insider, "Good riddance!" Such sentiments reflect the deepening divide within the US political sphere, pushing celebrities who once thrived within it to reconsider their homes.
Overall, the migration of these celebrities highlights not only their personal struggles with the current political atmosphere but also mirrors the sentiments of many American citizens who are grappling with the same issues. The path forward for these stars remains uncertain, but for now, their decision to head abroad reflects both personal choices and broader societal shifts.