Ellen DeGeneres has publicly confirmed that she and her wife, Portia de Rossi, permanently relocated to the United Kingdom because of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s election. Their move, which began as a temporary plan, quickly turned into a full-time life abroad as they found the lifestyle "just better" in the U.K.
The decision to move was triggered immediately after Trump’s victory in the 2016 presidential election. Ellen revealed during a conversation on a British broadcast that they arrived in the U.K. shortly before the election results were announced, and woke up to messages filled with shock and sadness. Realizing "he got in," they made a pivotal choice: they would remain in England for good rather than return to America.
A Permanent Shift Fueled by Politics
Originally, the couple intended to maintain a part-time residence in England, visiting three to four times a year. However, what began as occasional stays evolved into a permanent arrangement as they discovered the quality of life in the U.K. to be far superior for them. Ellen described the overall environment as "just better," underscoring the political climate under Trump as a decisive factor in their relocation.
This move signifies more than just a change of scenery; it is emblematic of personal and political disillusionment that many in the entertainment industry felt during the Trump era. For Ellen, the move was about aligning her life with her values and feeling more at home in a place that resonated with her perspective on inclusivity and governance.
Life in the U.K.: A Fresh Start
Since settling in the U.K., Ellen and Portia have embraced their new surroundings, enjoying a lifestyle that contrasts sharply with their experiences back in the U.S. Ellen’s recent public appearances and social media posts reflect a contentment and sense of freedom that seemed elusive before their decision to stay permanently abroad.
They have expressed no regrets about their move, and Ellen candidly admits that returning to America is hard to imagine. Their story resonates with many Americans who have felt a cultural or political disconnect with their home country in recent years. Ellen’s transparent discussion of her reasons highlights the profound impact of political leadership on personal lives, especially for public figures navigating the global stage.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Ellen’s Future
While Ellen DeGeneres is no longer hosting her iconic talk show, her move to the U.K. opens new doors for personal and professional opportunities overseas. This permanent relocation might also influence other artists and celebrities who have grown frustrated with political tides back home.
Ellen’s journey underscores a larger trend of cultural and artistic migration prompted by political climates — a testament to how deeply intertwined politics and personal identity have become in today’s world. Her bold choice to stay in the U.K. reflects a profound statement about where she believes she can thrive best both as an artist and as a person.