After decades as an icon of American cinema, Richard Gere has taken a step that many fans find both inspiring and bittersweet—he’s decided to leave the United States and start a new chapter in Spain. Known for his roles in classics like Pretty Woman, An Officer and a Gentleman, and Chicago, Gere’s career has made him a beloved figure worldwide. Yet, despite the fame and fortune that Hollywood offers, he’s long preferred a quieter, more introspective lifestyle away from the glitz and glamor. Now, his move to Spain with his family reflects his commitment to living a life grounded in family, culture, and purpose. Here’s what led to this decision and what it means for the celebrated actor’s next chapter.
A Legendary Career, A New Chapter for Richard Gere
Richard Gere’s career has spanned over five decades, with unforgettable roles that have cemented his place in Hollywood history. Born on August 31, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Gere’s rise to fame in the late 1970s and 1980s marked him as one of the industry’s most versatile actors. From dashing romantic leads to complex characters, he’s showcased a range that few actors can rival. His performance in Chicago even won him a Golden Globe, further proving his dedication to his craft.
Despite his success, Gere has never seemed at ease in the Hollywood spotlight. In recent years, he’s shifted his focus to humanitarian work, using his platform to advocate for human rights and global peace. This shift, along with his desire for a more meaningful life, has led him to a major personal decision: moving to Spain. This relocation is not only a fresh start for Gere but also a way for him to embrace a more relaxed, family-centered lifestyle, particularly alongside his Spanish wife, Alejandra Silva.
Choosing Spain: A Place to Call Home
Richard Gere’s decision to settle in Spain is as much about family as it is about lifestyle. Married to Spanish activist and publicist Alejandra Silva, Gere has grown fond of Spanish culture and its emphasis on joy, community, and family. During an interview in early 2024, he shared his excitement about the move, stating, “For me, going to Madrid is going to be a great adventure because I’ve never lived full-time outside the United States. She was very generous to give me six years living in my world, so I think it’s only fair that I give her at least another six living in hers.”
Gere’s words reflect his deep respect for Alejandra’s heritage and his desire to give his young children the opportunity to grow up connected to their mother’s culture. As he expressed, “I love Spain and think your lifestyle is fabulous. The people are so sensitive and generous, with a strong will to laugh and enjoy themselves.” For Gere, Spain’s rich cultural landscape and vibrant way of life present the perfect setting for his family’s new beginning.
Selling His Connecticut Estate: A Step Toward New Beginnings
In October 2024, Gere and Alejandra sold their expansive Connecticut estate, marking a significant step toward their transition to Spain. This stunning property, which Gere purchased just two years earlier from musician Paul Simon and his wife Edie Brickell, spanned nearly 32 acres and featured gardens, woodland trails, a pool, and even a waterfall. Though the sale involved a slight financial loss, it was symbolic of Gere’s commitment to moving forward.
This sale also follows the 2022 sale of his previous home in Pound Ridge, New York, where he had lived for years, seeking refuge from the fast-paced Hollywood lifestyle. With the Connecticut property now behind them, Gere and Alejandra are fully prepared to embrace their new life in Madrid, a city known for its charm, historical richness, and relaxed atmosphere.
Building a Life Focused on Family and Meaningful Connections
Gere’s move to Spain is rooted in his desire for a life that prioritizes family and meaningful experiences. He and Alejandra married in 2018, and since then, they have welcomed two children. Reflecting on their journey together, Gere shared a story that highlights the depth of their connection. Early in their relationship, Alejandra visited Gere at his rural New York home, where he introduced her to his meditation practice, a significant aspect of his life.
Alejandra’s curiosity about meditation wasn’t simply polite interest—it was a genuine desire to understand a practice that was central to Gere’s life. Over time, she embraced Gere’s Buddhist practices, and their shared spirituality became a foundation for their relationship. This bond has helped them build a life that values peace, introspection, and growth, away from Hollywood’s constant demands.
For the past 25 years, Gere has chosen to live on the East Coast rather than Los Angeles, preferring the calm and distance from the Hollywood scene. His choice to stay away from Hollywood was not only personal but also connected to his role as a father. Gere’s son from a previous relationship, Homer James Jigme Gere, now 24, lives on the East Coast, and Gere made it a priority to remain close to him. This focus on family reflects Gere’s values and his commitment to being a present and supportive father.
A Love for Spain and Its Cultural Richness
Gere’s fondness for Spain goes beyond his relationship with Alejandra. Over the years, he has grown to admire the country’s culture, which values family, laughter, and a laid-back lifestyle that aligns with his own beliefs. Spain’s emphasis on living life fully, its love for art and history, and its sense of community have captivated Gere.
Moving to Spain offers Gere a chance to experience a new way of life while immersing himself in a culture that resonates with him. The food, the music, and the slower pace provide an appealing contrast to the often frantic lifestyle associated with Hollywood. For Gere, Spain represents not only a place to live but a way to live—one that aligns with his priorities and values.
Leaving Hollywood Behind: A Shift Toward Purpose-Driven Living
While Richard Gere’s career remains celebrated, he has long distanced himself from the Hollywood scene. “When I hear the word Hollywood, the first thing I think is that it’s very foreign to me,” Gere has stated, reflecting on how his priorities have shifted over the years. He hasn’t lived in California or filmed in Los Angeles for decades, choosing instead to focus on projects that align with his values and passions.
This separation from Hollywood isn’t just about location—it’s about purpose. Gere’s commitment to humanitarian work has driven him to seek projects that make a difference, moving away from the demands of mainstream entertainment. For Gere, acting has always been more than fame; it’s a form of expression and connection. His move to Spain aligns with this philosophy, offering him a space where he can focus on what truly matters to him: his family, his values, and his peace.
A Future Rooted in Family, Culture, and Personal Fulfillment
Richard Gere’s decision to relocate to Spain marks a new beginning that is deeply personal. By moving away from the United States, he’s choosing a life that is more balanced, family-oriented, and culturally enriching. Spain allows Gere the freedom to live away from Hollywood’s spotlight, and in Madrid, he’ll be able to watch his children grow up connected to their Spanish heritage.
With the sale of his Connecticut estate, Gere is ready to immerse himself in Spain’s lifestyle, embracing its warmth, history, and beauty. This decision is not only about location but about a shift toward a life that prioritizes well-being, cultural connection, and family.
Conclusion: Richard Gere’s New Chapter in Spain
Richard Gere’s move to Spain is more than a change of scenery; it’s a statement of his values. Choosing to leave behind a Hollywood legacy, Gere is embracing a lifestyle that aligns with his beliefs and the life he envisions for his family. His journey reflects a desire to live purposefully, grounded in family, culture, and joy.
As he begins this new chapter, Gere’s legacy as an actor will remain timeless, but his future will be defined by a commitment to personal fulfillment and the people he loves. In Spain, Gere will find the peace and connection he has long sought, stepping into a life that offers not only beauty but a deeply fulfilling journey alongside those closest to him.
