In a move that’s taken fans by surprise, legendary actor Richard Gere—best known for his iconic roles in Pretty Woman and American Gigolo—has announced that he is permanently relocating to Spain with his family and has no intention of returning to live in the United States.

Gere’s decision, he said in a recent statement, is rooted in growing discomfort with the political and social climate in the U.S., and he specifically cited Elon Musk as a symbol of the changes that have prompted his departure.

“This is about peace, values, and the kind of environment I want for my children,” Gere explained. “Spain offers history, culture, and a sense of community that we no longer feel in the United States.”

Gere, who has long been one of Hollywood’s most respected figures, is walking away from the glitz of Los Angeles and what he calls the chaos of modern American life in search of something simpler and more meaningful. His wife, Spanish publicist Alejandra Silva, and their children are fully on board, and both have expressed excitement about embracing a new chapter in Europe.

In his remarks, Gere described the U.S. as being overwhelmed by political tension, social unrest, and an increasingly toxic culture shaped by the ultra-wealthy and powerful. He pointed to Elon Musk as emblematic of what he sees as a dangerous consolidation of influence in corporate America.

“What’s happening in the U.S. deeply worries me—the concentration of power and wealth in the hands of people like Musk,” Gere said.

This concern isn’t unique to him. Musk’s expanding influence over tech, media, and politics has sparked widespread debate, with critics accusing him of promoting unchecked capitalism and shaping national discourse in ways that some believe are corrosive to democracy and social cohesion.

For Gere, these shifts have become untenable. He and his family are seeking a lifestyle more in tune with their values—one that emphasizes family, culture, and community over spectacle and power. In a recent interview, Silva said, “Spain gives us a quality of life that’s priceless. We can raise our children in an environment that feels grounded, safe, and less stressed.”

The couple has spoken often about their affinity for Spain’s slower pace of life and close-knit social fabric. Their connection to the country runs deep—Silva was born there, and they’ve maintained close ties for years.

While many fans were stunned by Gere’s announcement, others applauded his courage to walk away from Hollywood’s spotlight for something more meaningful. Supporters flooded social media with messages of respect, and the hashtag #RichardGereInSpain quickly went viral.

“I’m sad to see Richard Gere leave America,” one Twitter user wrote, “but I totally respect his choice. He’s doing what’s best for his family—and maybe even his soul.”

Not everyone agreed. Some critics questioned whether Gere’s decision was overly political or an overreaction to the current state of affairs. Others praised it as a principled stand in an increasingly polarized world.

Despite the move, Gere has no plans to retire. He’s expressed interest in working with European filmmakers and pursuing projects that allow him to explore different cultures and tell more personal, meaningful stories. His move may mark a shift away from mainstream blockbusters, but it could open up new creative avenues in the European film industry.

At its heart, Gere’s relocation is about more than geography—it’s about values. And in stepping away from the U.S., he’s sparked a broader conversation about where we’re headed as a society and what kind of future we want to build—not just for ourselves, but for the generations that follow.

As Richard Gere begins this new chapter in Spain, his decision serves as both a personal turning point and a public statement about the kind of world he wants to live in—and leave behind.