CELEBRITY
Richard Gere reveals why he’s Leaving the U.S. with his wife and kids and moving to Spain: ‘My reason is because there’s a heavy….

In a surprising announcement that has left fans and Hollywood insiders buzzing, actor Richard Gere revealed his decision to leave the United States and relocate to Spain with his wife, Alejandra Silva, and their two young sons, Alexander and James. The 75-year-old star, known for iconic roles in films like Pretty Woman and Chicago, opened up about the deeply personal reasons behind this life-changing move during an exclusive interview with Global Living Magazine published yesterday.
Gere, who has long been admired for his introspective nature and commitment to humanitarian causes, cited a growing sense of unease as a primary motivator. “My reason is because there’s a heavy weight in the air here,” Gere said, his voice tinged with emotion. “It’s hard to put into words, but it feels like a loss of connection, a fragmentation. I want my kids to grow up in a place where community, art, and history are woven into everyday life.”
While Gere stopped short of detailing specific political or social issues, sources close to the actor suggest his decision is influenced by a desire for a quieter, more grounded environment amid the fast-paced and often polarizing climate in the U.S. His wife, Alejandra, a Spanish native and activist, has reportedly been instrumental in the decision. “Alejandra’s roots are in Spain, and she’s always spoken about the warmth and simplicity of life there,” an insider shared. “Richard fell in love with that vision—a slower pace where family comes first.”
The couple, who married in 2018, has been spotted frequently in Spain over the past few years, particularly in Madrid and the Galicia region, where Alejandra grew up. Gere, who has embraced Spanish culture through his wife’s family, described the move as a chance to “reset” and prioritize what matters most. “Spain feels alive in a way that’s hard to describe,” he said. “The food, the music, the way people come together—it’s nourishing. I want my boys to know that kind of life.”
The An Officer and a Gentleman star also hinted at professional motivations. Gere, who has taken on fewer acting roles in recent years, expressed interest in exploring European cinema. “There’s a rich tradition of storytelling in Europe that I’ve always admired,” he noted. “I’m not retiring, but I’m ready for something new—maybe smaller, more human stories.” Industry insiders speculate that Gere may collaborate with Spanish filmmakers, with rumors swirling about a potential project with acclaimed director Pedro Almodóvar.
For Alejandra, the move is a homecoming. The 42-year-old, who runs a nonprofit focused on homelessness, is eager to reconnect with her heritage. “Our boys are already bilingual, and I want them to feel as Spanish as they do American,” she told the magazine. The couple’s sons, aged 5 and 3, are reportedly excited about the adventure, with Gere jokingly adding, “They’re mostly thrilled about the churros.”
The announcement comes at a time when several high-profile figures have chosen to relocate abroad, citing everything from lifestyle preferences to concerns about the direction of U.S. culture. Gere’s departure, however, feels particularly poignant given his long-standing ties to New York, where he has lived for decades and raised his eldest son, Homer, from his marriage to actress Carey Lowell.
Fans have taken to social media to express a mix of sadness and support. “Richard Gere moving to Spain is such a vibe—chasing peace and family time,” one user posted on X. Another wrote, “Hollywood’s losing a legend, but I get it. Sometimes you need a fresh start.” Others, however, expressed disappointment, with one commenting, “Why leave now? The U.S. needs voices like his.”
Gere’s decision also underscores his ongoing commitment to living authentically. A practicing Buddhist and advocate for Tibetan rights, he has often spoken about the importance of aligning one’s life with personal values. “At this stage, it’s about being true to what feels right,” he said. “Spain is calling us, and we’re ready to answer.”
As the Gere-Silva family prepares for their transatlantic move, expected to take place this summer, the actor remains optimistic about the future. “This isn’t goodbye—it’s just a new chapter,” he said with a smile. “Life’s too short to stay in one place forever.”
For now, fans will be watching closely to see how Gere’s Spanish sojourn unfolds—both on and off the screen. Whether he’s savoring tapas with his family or stepping back into the spotlight, one thing is clear: Richard Gere is ready to embrace the next phase of his journey with open arms.