Life stories 05/01/2026 20:41

A Family-First Decision

George Clooney has formally stepped away from life in the U.S., joining his wife Amal Clooney and their twins, Ella and Alexander, as newly naturalized French citizens. The announcement was confirmed in France’s Journal Officiel, which listed the Clooneys among those granted citizenship .

The family has lived for several years in southern France, where they own the Domaine du Canadel estate in Brignoles, Var. Purchased in 2021, the countryside property has become their primary home base, offering a quieter lifestyle far removed from Hollywood’s constant spotlight .

Why France?

Clooney has explained that the move wasn’t about quitting acting, but about giving his children a more normal upbringing. He worried about raising them in Los Angeles, where paparazzi culture and celebrity comparisons are unavoidable. In France, he said, “they kind of don’t give a s*** about fame,” emphasizing the country’s stricter privacy laws and slower pace of life .

France’s strong emphasis on culture, education, and family values also played a role. The Clooney twins now attend school in France, and George has shared that they speak fluent French, a reflection of the family’s integration into local life .

Continuing Work, New Roots

While Clooney continues to work on select film projects and humanitarian causes, France has become the family’s long-term base. The move represents not an escape, but a deliberate lifestyle choice focused on balance, stability, and purpose.

A Broader Trend

The Clooneys’ decision highlights a growing trend among high-profile figures seeking refuge in countries with stronger privacy protections. France’s legal framework, which restricts intrusive media coverage, has long been attractive to celebrities who want their children shielded from constant exposure.

The Takeaway

For George and Amal Clooney, Provence is more than a retreat—it’s a commitment to raising their family in peace, surrounded by culture, nature, and community. Their story underscores how even global icons sometimes choose simplicity over spectacle. 🌿🥖

Sources:

  • Associated Press / Journal Officiel – Clooneys granted French citizenship

  • The Independent – Clooneys living on a farm in Provence with twins

  • French News – Clooneys’ estate in Brignoles, Var, and family life in France

  • AFP – Official decree confirming French nationality

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