Well, here we are again. Another wave of Hollywood’s finest making headlines, not for a new film or groundbreaking performance, but because they’re packing their bags—or at least saying they are—following President Donald Trump’s re-election and continued leadership in his second term. And unlike the last go-around, some of them are actually following through this time.
Let’s start with Kristen Stewart, who has never been one to keep her thoughts to herself. In a recent interview with The Times, she didn’t mince words. “Reality is breaking completely under Trump,” she said, explaining that she “probably” won’t stick around in the U.S. much longer. Her issue?
Trump’s stance on tariffs and the film industry. According to Stewart, she feels like she “can’t work freely” in America anymore. That’s a pretty serious statement for an actress whose career has largely been built in Hollywood.
But she’s not alone. Legendary director James Cameron has officially become a New Zealand citizen, and it’s not just for the scenery. “I’m there for the sanity,” he said, adding that New Zealand’s more cohesive and science-forward approach made it a better place to live and work. He didn’t hide his feelings about the current American political climate, describing it as chaotic and deeply divided.
Then there’s Ellen DeGeneres, who didn’t wait for the dust to settle after the 2024 election. She and her wife, Portia de Rossi, were already in the U.K. and decided, on the spot, to stay put.
The day after Trump’s win, she said they woke up to a wave of crying emojis from friends. That sealed the deal.
Comedian Rosie O’Donnell, one of Trump’s most vocal critics for years, has gone even further—relocating to Ireland and applying for citizenship. She shared the move on TikTok, citing both personal well-being and her child’s future as key reasons for leaving.
And while a few other A-listers like Robin Wright, Richard Gere, and Eva Longoria have quietly exited the country as well—some citing lifestyle or work-related reasons—it’s worth noting that many of the loudest pre-election voices haven’t made the leap. Barbra Streisand, Cher, Sharon Stone? Still here.
So, what does this all mean? Well, for one, the line between entertainment and politics continues to blur.
And two, it seems like some stars really are putting their money where their mouths are this time around. Whether it’s out of protest, principle, or just preference, they’re stepping off the stage and onto a plane.
