Actresses Who Moved to Europe to Escape the Hollywood Lifestyle

Many prominent figures in the entertainment industry decide to leave the fast-paced environment of Los Angeles in search of more privacy and a balanced lifestyle. These women often find that the cultural atmosphere and legal protections in European countries provide a much-needed reprieve from constant public scrutiny. Moving abroad allows them to focus on their craft and families without the intrusive nature of the American paparazzi culture. This transition frequently marks a significant shift in their careers and personal wellbeing as they embrace a more grounded existence.

Gwyneth Paltrow

Paltrow moved to London during her marriage to Chris Martin and lived there for a decade to enjoy a more secluded family life. She appreciated the ability to raise her children in an environment that prioritized education and culture over celebrity status. The actress continued to work on major projects like ‘Iron Man’ (2008) while maintaining her primary residence in the United Kingdom. She often spoke about the refreshing nature of European social circles where work was not the primary topic of conversation. This period allowed her to build her lifestyle brand while staying away from the intense Hollywood limelight.

Grace Kelly

Kelly famously walked away from a highly successful acting career to marry Prince Rainier III of Monaco. She left the glitz of the film industry behind to take on her responsibilities as a princess in the small European principality. Her move effectively ended her time in Hollywood despite several offers to return for films like ‘Marnie’ (1964). She dedicated the rest of her life to philanthropy and cultural development within Monaco. This transition remains one of the most high-profile examples of an actress choosing a royal life in Europe over cinematic fame.

Audrey Hepburn

Hepburn eventually retreated to the peace of the Swiss countryside to distance herself from the demands of the film industry. She spent her later years living in a villa called La Paisible in the village of Tolochenaz. This move allowed her to focus on raising her children and her significant humanitarian work with UNICEF. While she occasionally returned for roles in films like ‘Always’ (1989) she remained committed to her quiet life in Switzerland. Her choice to live away from the spotlight reflected her desire for a simple and meaningful existence.

Natalie Portman

Portman relocated to Paris for several years when her husband became the director of the Paris Opera Ballet. She embraced the French lifestyle and mentioned in interviews how much she enjoyed the different cultural approach to celebrity. During her time in France she balanced motherhood with roles in major productions like ‘Jane Got a Gun’ (2015). The actress appreciated the relative anonymity she found while walking the streets of Paris compared to the constant attention in Los Angeles. She has since moved back to the United States but maintains a deep appreciation for her European experience.

Salma Hayek Pinault

Hayek moved to Europe after marrying French businessman Francois-Henri Pinault and has lived between London and Paris for many years. She has often commented on the benefit of living in cities where the film industry does not dominate every social interaction. This move did not slow down her career as she continued to star in hits like ‘House of Gucci’ (2021). She finds that the European lifestyle allows her to maintain a better work-life balance for her family. The actress remains a powerful force in Hollywood while choosing to keep her home base across the Atlantic.

Amber Heard

Heard decided to relocate to Madrid following a highly publicized legal battle in the United States. She sought a fresh start and a quieter life for her young daughter away from the intense media scrutiny of Hollywood. The actress has been seen enjoying the local parks and culture while living a much more private life in the Spanish capital. She continues to appear in projects like ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’ (2023) but focuses her daily life on her new European community. This move represents a significant effort to escape the negative aspects of her fame in America.

Rose McGowan

McGowan moved to Italy and eventually became a permanent resident after feeling disillusioned with the American film industry. She has spoken openly about finding a sense of peace and healing in the Italian countryside that she could not find in Hollywood. The actress occasionally participates in film projects but has largely shifted her focus to writing and activism. She enjoys the slower pace of life and the emphasis on community found in her new home. Her relocation was a deliberate step to disconnect from the system she criticized so publicly.

Gillian Anderson

Anderson moved back to London after her success in ‘The X-Files’ (1993) to return to her roots and pursue theater. She chose to raise her children in the United Kingdom to provide them with a more stable and less celebrity-focused upbringing. This move allowed her to take on diverse roles in British television series like ‘The Fall’ (2013) and ‘Sex Education’ (2019). She has often stated that she prefers the working culture of the European industry over the corporate nature of Hollywood. Anderson remains a celebrated figure on both sides of the Atlantic while calling London her home.

Maggie Gyllenhaal

Gyllenhaal and her husband Peter Sarsgaard moved their family to the United Kingdom to enjoy a different pace of life. She has found great success working within the European film community both as an actress and a director. Her directorial debut ‘The Lost Daughter’ (2021) was filmed in Greece and showcased her European sensibilities. Living in London provides her with the artistic freedom to pursue personal projects away from the mainstream Hollywood machine. The move has allowed her to integrate into a vibrant cultural scene that supports her creative vision.

Angelina Jolie

Jolie has spent significant portions of her life living in France at her estate known as Chateau Miraval. She sought a place where her children could grow up with more privacy and a connection to nature. While she remains one of the most famous women in the world she often retreats to her European property to escape the Los Angeles scene. This residence has served as a base for her family life and her diverse humanitarian efforts. Her preference for the European countryside highlights her desire for a life that extends beyond the borders of the film industry.

Olivia de Havilland

De Havilland moved to Paris in the mid-fifties and lived there until her passing at the age of one hundred and four. She found that the French capital offered a level of sophistication and privacy that she lacked in California. The legendary star of ‘Gone with the Wind’ (1939) became a beloved figure in the Parisian social and cultural scene. She chose to stay in Europe even as she continued to receive accolades for her contributions to cinema. Her long life in France is a testament to her preference for the European lifestyle over the Hollywood bubble.

Ava Gardner

Gardner left Hollywood for Spain in the fifties to escape the stifling atmosphere of the studio system and the paparazzi. She became a fixture in the Madrid social scene and embraced the local culture including her well-known love for flamenco. The actress later moved to London where she lived a relatively quiet life in an apartment in Ennismore Gardens. She found that the European public was more respectful of her privacy than the American press. Gardner continued to work in films like ‘The Night of the Iguana’ (1964) while making Europe her permanent home.

Josephine Baker

Baker moved to France in the twenties to escape the racial discrimination she faced in the United States. She became a superstar in Paris and was celebrated for her unique talents as a dancer and actress. She famously appeared in films like ‘Zouzou’ (1934) and became a symbol of the Jazz Age in Europe. During the war she served the French Resistance and was later awarded the Legion of Honor. Her move to Europe was a pursuit of freedom and dignity that she eventually found in her adopted country.

Ingrid Bergman

Bergman left Hollywood to move to Italy after a scandalous affair with director Roberto Rossellini made her a target of the American press. She lived in Rome and starred in several European films including ‘Stromboli’ (1950) which marked a new chapter in her career. The actress found that the European film community was more supportive during her personal struggles. She eventually returned to international stardom and won an Academy Award for ‘Anastasia’ (1956). Her time in Italy was a crucial period of professional and personal transformation away from Hollywood.

Helen Mirren

Mirren moved to Italy with her husband Taylor Hackford and spends much of her time at their restored farmhouse in Puglia. She has embraced the local agriculture and often speaks about her love for the Italian way of life. While she remains highly active in films like ‘The Queen’ (2006) she prefers the tranquility of her European home. The actress enjoys the simplicity of gardening and participating in local community events. Her move reflects a desire to balance a high-profile career with a grounded and rustic lifestyle.

Cate Blanchett

Blanchett moved her family to the English countryside to live in a historic manor house in East Sussex. She sought a home that provided more space and a connection to the environment for her children. The actress has been involved in local community projects and appreciates the privacy that the rural setting offers. She continues to star in major films like ‘Tar’ (2022) while commuting from her peaceful base in the United Kingdom. This relocation has allowed her to maintain her status as an elite performer while avoiding the typical Los Angeles lifestyle.

Alicia Vikander

Vikander and her husband Michael Fassbender chose to make their home in Lisbon to escape the constant attention of major film hubs. They appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the beautiful coastal scenery of Portugal. The Swedish actress has continued to work on international projects like ‘Firebrand’ (2023) while enjoying a quiet life in her adopted city. She has mentioned in interviews that living in Lisbon allows them to lead a normal life away from the industry. Their move highlights a growing trend of young stars seeking alternative bases in Europe.

Diane Kruger

Kruger moved back to Europe and spends a significant amount of time in France where she first started her career. She has often expressed her preference for the European approach to filmmaking and the emphasis on art over commerce. The actress starred in the German-language film ‘In the Fade’ (2017) which earned her critical acclaim on the international festival circuit. Living in Paris allows her to stay connected to her roots and a diverse community of artists. She enjoys the ability to walk around the city and engage with the culture without the intensity of Hollywood fame.

Rooney Mara

Mara moved to Europe with her partner Joaquin Phoenix to find a more secluded environment for their family life. They have been spotted living in various European locations while maintaining a very private profile. The actress continues to choose compelling roles in films like ‘Women Talking’ (2022) but avoids the typical celebrity social scene. Her move to Europe aligns with her reputation for being a serious artist who values privacy above all else. This transition has provided her with a sanctuary away from the intrusive nature of the American entertainment industry.

Kristin Scott Thomas

Scott Thomas moved to France at the age of nineteen and has lived there for the majority of her adult life. She considers herself more of a French actress than a British one and has starred in many French-language films like ‘I’ve Loved You So Long’ (2008). Despite her massive success in Hollywood hits like ‘The English Patient’ (1996) she never moved back to the United States. She prefers the European lifestyle and the different types of roles available to women in the French film industry. Her career is a perfect example of a performer who has successfully balanced international fame with a European base.

Mischa Barton

Barton moved back to London to reconnect with her heritage and seek a healthier lifestyle after the intense pressure of her early career. She rose to fame in the series ‘The O.C.’ (2003) and struggled with the constant paparazzi attention in Los Angeles. Returning to the United Kingdom allowed her to explore theater and independent film projects in a more supportive environment. She has expressed that the move helped her regain a sense of self away from the Hollywood machine. The actress continues to work on various projects while enjoying the relative normalcy of her life in Europe.

Sienna Miller

Miller decided to move back to London and later to the English countryside to escape the aggressive tabloid culture in the United Kingdom and America. She sought a more stable environment to raise her daughter and focus on her acting craft. Her performances in projects like ‘Anatomy of a Scandal’ (2022) have been highly praised by critics. She finds that the European industry offers more interesting and diverse roles as she matures as an actress. The move has allowed her to rebuild her public image on her own terms away from her past celebrity status.

Emma Watson

Watson has primarily lived in London and has often spoken about her desire to maintain a life separate from her ‘Harry Potter’ (2001) fame. She chose to attend university and pursue activism while staying close to her family in the United Kingdom. The actress balances her career with her role as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and other humanitarian efforts. She intentionally avoids the Hollywood party scene and prefers the intellectual and cultural atmosphere of Europe. Her choice to stay in England has helped her transition from a child star to a respected adult actress and advocate.

Keira Knightley

Knightley lives in London with her family and has consistently chosen to stay in the United Kingdom despite her global stardom. She has been vocal about the difficulties of dealing with paparazzi and prefers the more reserved nature of British society. The actress often stars in period dramas like ‘Colette’ (2018) that are filmed across Europe. She values her privacy and tries to lead a normal life that includes walking her children to school and shopping locally. Staying in Europe has allowed her to manage the pressures of fame while staying grounded in her personal life.

Carey Mulligan

Mulligan lives in a farmhouse in the English countryside with her husband Marcus Mumford and their children. She intentionally chose a rural life to provide a peaceful upbringing for her family away from the film industry hubs. The actress remains a top-tier talent and has received several award nominations for films like ‘Promising Young Woman’ (2020). She enjoys the seclusion of her home and the ability to disconnect from work entirely when she is not on set. Her lifestyle choice reflects her commitment to prioritizing her family and mental well-being over Hollywood social climbing.

Lily James

James is based in London and frequently works on British productions that allow her to stay close to home. She has starred in major hits like ‘Cinderella’ (2015) but maintains a lifestyle that is far removed from the Los Angeles scene. The actress enjoys the vibrant theater community in London and often returns to the stage between film roles. She finds that living in Europe provides a better perspective on the world and her place within it. Her career trajectory shows that it is possible to be a global star while maintaining a solid European base.

Florence Pugh

Pugh remains based in the United Kingdom and often talks about her love for her home in London and her family in Oxford. She has quickly become one of the most sought-after actresses in the world after roles in ‘Midsommar’ (2019) and ‘Black Widow’ (2021). Despite her success she remains very close to her roots and prefers the British lifestyle over moving to California. The actress frequently shares glimpses of her relatively normal life including her passion for cooking and spending time with friends. Her grounded personality and choice of residence have made her a relatable figure to her many fans.

Gemma Arterton

Arterton lives in London and has focused much of her recent career on independent films and theater in the United Kingdom. She famously spoke about her dissatisfaction with the Hollywood blockbuster machine after starring in ‘Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time’ (2010). Since then she has taken more control over her projects and even started her own production company. She enjoys the creative freedom that comes with working in the European film industry. The actress values the ability to live a quiet life in London where she can focus on artistic integrity.

Tilda Swinton

Swinton lives in the Scottish Highlands in a town called Nairn and is known for her highly unconventional lifestyle. She has created a home that is a sanctuary for her and her family far away from any major entertainment industry center. The actress is a mainstay in international cinema and frequently collaborates with directors on projects like ‘The French Dispatch’ (2021). She is deeply involved in her local community and even co-founded a school in the area. Her move to the remote north of Scotland is a clear statement of her independence from Hollywood norms.

Helena Bonham Carter

Bonham Carter is a quintessential London resident who has lived in the same neighborhood for most of her life. She is known for her unique style and her refusal to conform to the typical Hollywood beauty standards. The actress has had a prolific career with major roles in ‘The King’s Speech’ (2010) and the ‘Harry Potter’ (2001) series. She prefers the eccentric and historic atmosphere of London over the modern and commercial feel of Los Angeles. Her presence in the United Kingdom has allowed her to become a national treasure while maintaining her status as a global icon.

Eva Green

Green was born in France but has made London her primary home for many years to enjoy the cultural blend of the city. She is known for her enigmatic personality and her preference for dark and complex roles in films like ‘Casino Royale’ (2006). The actress often works on European co-productions that allow her to utilize her multilingual skills. She avoids the limelight whenever possible and enjoys a quiet life filled with art and taxidermy. Her move to London reflects her desire for a European base that supports her unique career path.

Marion Cotillard

Cotillard lives in France and remains one of the most successful French actresses to transition to Hollywood. She won an Academy Award for ‘La Vie en Rose’ (2007) but never felt the need to move to the United States permanently. The actress continues to star in major American films like ‘Inception’ (2010) while maintaining her home in Paris. She is an active environmental advocate and participates in many European social causes. Her career demonstrates that a performer can reach the pinnacle of success while staying true to their European heritage.

Juliette Binoche

Binoche has lived in France her entire life and has consistently turned down long-term Hollywood contracts to maintain her artistic freedom. She is known for her incredible range and her willingness to take on challenging roles in films like ‘The English Patient’ (1996). The actress is also a talented painter and dancer who explores many different forms of creative expression. She finds that the European lifestyle nourishes her creativity in a way that Hollywood cannot. Her enduring career is a testament to her commitment to art over celebrity.

Charlotte Rampling

Rampling moved to France in the seventies and has lived in Paris for decades while maintaining a successful international career. She is known for her bold choices in films like ’45 Years’ (2015) and her distinctively European sensibility. The actress has navigated the industry with a sense of mystery and elegance that has made her a legend. She has stated that she feels more at home in the French culture and appreciates the way the industry treats older actresses. Her long and varied career is deeply rooted in her life in Europe.

Jane Birkin

Birkin moved from London to Paris in the late sixties and became an iconic figure in French culture. She was known for her relationship with Serge Gainsbourg and her successful career as an actress and singer. Birkin appeared in many French films including ‘La Belle Noiseuse’ (1991) and remained a beloved figure in her adopted country until her passing. She embraced the bohemian lifestyle of Paris and became a symbol of effortless French chic. Her move to France was a defining moment that shaped the rest of her life and career.

Brigitte Bardot

Bardot retired from the film industry at the height of her fame to live a secluded life in St. Tropez. She left Hollywood and the global spotlight behind to focus entirely on her animal rights activism. The legendary star of ‘And God Created Woman’ (1956) became a controversial and influential figure in France. She has spent decades living on her estate with her many animals and rarely makes public appearances. Her move was a radical departure from the life of a movie star and a commitment to her personal beliefs.

Catherine Deneuve

Deneuve has always lived in France and is considered the personification of French cinematic elegance. She has worked with the greatest directors in the world and starred in classics like ‘Belle de Jour’ (1967). While she has appeared in American films she has never been tempted to move to Hollywood. The actress is a mainstay of the Parisian cultural scene and remains active in the film industry to this day. Her choice to stay in Europe has allowed her to build a legendary body of work that is uniquely hers.

Sophia Loren

Loren moved to Switzerland many years ago to find a peaceful and stable environment for her family. She lives in a beautiful villa on the shores of Lake Geneva where she enjoys a quiet and private life. Despite her status as one of the greatest movie stars of all time she has always prioritized her home life. The actress occasionally returns to the screen for special projects like ‘The Life Ahead’ (2020) which was directed by her son. Her relocation to Switzerland reflects her desire for a serene lifestyle away from the chaos of the film industry.

Monica Bellucci

Bellucci has lived in various European cities including Paris and Rome while maintaining a high-profile international career. She is known for her beauty and her roles in films like ‘Malena’ (2000) and ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ (2003). The actress prefers the European approach to aging and the respect shown to experienced performers. She continues to be a major presence in both film and fashion while living a sophisticated European life. Her move away from the Hollywood center has allowed her to maintain a sense of mystery and longevity.

Penélope Cruz

Cruz lives in Madrid with her husband Javier Bardem and their children to ensure they have a normal upbringing. She was one of the first Spanish actresses to achieve massive success in Hollywood with films like ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’ (2008). Despite her Academy Award and global fame she chose to return to her home country to be close to her family. The actress continues to work on both Spanish and international projects while enjoying the local culture. Her decision to live in Spain highlights her commitment to her roots and her desire for a balanced life.

Rachel Weisz

Weisz moved back to the United Kingdom and lives in London with her husband Daniel Craig and their children. She has managed to maintain a highly successful career with roles in films like ‘The Favourite’ (2018) while staying out of the tabloids. The actress values the privacy that the British capital provides and enjoys the local cultural offerings. She finds that living in Europe allows her to be more selective with her roles and focus on quality storytelling. Her move reflects a common desire among elite actors to find a sanctuary away from the industry buzz.

Rosamund Pike

Pike is based in London and has often spoken about the benefits of the British film industry and its focus on character-driven stories. She gained international fame for her role in ‘Gone Girl’ (2014) but chose not to relocate to Los Angeles. The actress enjoys the intellectual environment of her home city and the proximity to the European film scene. She continues to take on diverse and challenging roles in projects like ‘I Care a Lot’ (2020). Her choice to stay in the United Kingdom has allowed her to build a unique and respected career on her own terms.

Naomie Harris

Harris lives in London and has been a consistent presence in both British and American cinema for many years. She is well known for her role as Moneypenny in the James Bond series and her Academy Award nominated performance in ‘Moonlight’ (2016). The actress prefers the multicultural and vibrant atmosphere of London and stays close to her community. She has mentioned that she enjoys the anonymity that comes with living in a large European city. Her career success shows that one can be part of major global franchises while living a quiet life in Europe.

Thandiwe Newton

Newton lives in London and has been a vocal advocate for more diversity and better working conditions in the film industry. She has had a successful career in both film and television with roles in ‘Crash’ (2004) and ‘Westworld’ (2016). The actress values the cultural richness of the United Kingdom and chooses to raise her family there. She often works on projects that challenge societal norms and promote social justice. Her presence in the European industry has made her an influential figure both as an artist and an activist.

Kate Winslet

Winslet lives in a rural part of West Sussex and has always been determined to keep her family life separate from her Hollywood fame. She rose to global stardom with ‘Titanic’ (1997) but famously avoided the typical celebrity path. The actress is known for her down to earth personality and her commitment to authenticity in her roles. She enjoys the quiet life of the English countryside and is often involved in local community events. Her career continues to flourish with acclaimed performances in projects like ‘Mare of Easttown’ (2021).

Lena Headey

Headey moved back to the United Kingdom after living in Los Angeles for several years during the height of her ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011) fame. She sought a more peaceful environment and a better support system for her family. The actress has been open about the challenges of the Hollywood lifestyle and her preference for the British way of life. She continues to work on various international projects while enjoying the relative privacy of her home. Her move highlights the importance of personal well-being over the perceived advantages of living in the entertainment capital.

Emilia Clarke

Clarke remains based in London and has used her platform to advocate for health issues after her own experiences during ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011). She is a beloved figure in the United Kingdom and enjoys participating in the local theater scene. The actress values the ability to live a relatively normal life and spend time with her friends and family. She continues to star in major films like ‘Last Christmas’ (2019) while maintaining a solid base in Europe. Her choice to stay in London has helped her stay grounded despite her massive international fame.

Jodie Comer

Comer lives in her hometown of Liverpool and has become one of the most acclaimed young actresses in the world. She gained international recognition for her role in ‘Killing Eve’ (2018) and has since moved into major film roles like ‘The Last Duel’ (2021). Despite her success she remains very close to her family and prefers the familiar environment of northern England. The actress has been praised for her versatility and her commitment to her craft. Her decision to stay in the United Kingdom reflects a new generation of stars who prioritize their roots.

Vanessa Kirby

Kirby is based in London and has moved from a successful stage career to becoming an Academy Award nominated film actress. She is known for her roles in ‘The Crown’ (2016) and ‘Pieces of a Woman’ (2020). The actress enjoys the creative energy of the London theater community and frequently returns to the stage. She finds that the European industry offers more opportunities for intense and transformative performances. Her career trajectory demonstrates the strength of the British talent pool and the appeal of staying in Europe.

Please share your thoughts on which of these actresses made the most interesting transition in the comments.