On July 20, 2025, Ellen DeGeneres confirmed she and her wife, Portia de Rossi, have permanently relocated to the UK’s Cotswolds, driven by Donald Trump’s re-election as U.S. president. Speaking at Cheltenham’s Everyman Theatre in her first public appearance since moving in November 2024, DeGeneres told broadcaster Richard Bacon, “We got here the day before the election and woke up to texts with crying emojis. I said, ‘He got in,’ and we decided, ‘We’re staying here.’” Initially planning a part-time residence, the couple opted for a permanent move, citing concerns over U.S. political shifts, particularly threats to LGBTQ+ rights.
DeGeneres, whose talk show ended in 2022 amid toxic workplace allegations, expressed admiration for the UK’s “simpler way of life,” praising its architecture, politeness, and animal welfare. She noted, “It’s clean. Everything here is just better.” The comedian, who endorsed Kamala Harris in 2024, voiced fears about the Southern Baptist Convention’s push to reverse same-sex marriage, prompting her and de Rossi to consider renewing their vows in the UK, where such rights are more secure. A 2025 Pew Research poll shows 71% of Americans support same-sex marriage, but nine state legislatures have introduced bills challenging it.
The couple’s Montecito, California, mansion is reportedly for sale, signaling no plans to return. DeGeneres’ move follows a 2024 Netflix special addressing her “mean” reputation, which she attributed to being “blunt.” As other celebrities like Rosie O’Donnell also relocate abroad, the question looms: is DeGeneres’ exit a stand against Trump’s America or a fresh start after personal controversies?
