Why Richard Gere Decided to Leave the US and Relocate to Spain

Richard and Alejandra Gere during the 64th International Film Festival of San Sebastian on October 6, 2016, in Spain. | Source: Getty Images
As part of this transition, the couple made headlines when they sold their Connecticut estate in October 2024. The property, which Richard had bought just two years prior from musician Paul Simon and his wife Edie Brickell, featured nearly 32 acres of stunning countryside, complete with woodland trails, gardens, a pool, and even a waterfall.
Though the sale marked a slight financial loss, the decision reflected his commitment to moving forward with this new chapter. Before settling in Connecticut, Richard had lived in the upscale enclave of Pound Ridge, New York, before selling that property in 2022.
With the sale of their Connecticut home, Richard and Alejandra are one step closer to their new life in Spain, where they’ll trade the bustling American lifestyle for the tranquility and cultural richness of Madrid.

Richard Gere photographed on October 24, 2018, in Madrid, Spain. | Source: Getty Images
Richard Gere’s Bond with Family and Life Away from Hollywood
Richard and Alejandra married in 2018 in a heartfelt ceremony in Madrid. Since then, the couple has built a close-knit family, welcoming two children.
Reflecting on their journey, the actor shared a story that reveals the depth of their connection and shared values. Early in their relationship, Alejandra visited him at his rural New York home, where he introduced her to a significant part of his life — meditation.
As Richard recalled, Alejandra’s curiosity about his meditation practice was more than polite interest. “She really wanted to know,” he said, describing how she asked questions that came from a place of deep sincerity and a desire for understanding.
That initial curiosity sparked a bond between them around spirituality and personal growth. Over time, Alejandra embraced Richard’s Buddhist practices, and this mutual interest in meditation became a foundation for their relationship.

Richard Gere and Alejandra Silva at the Starlite Porcelanosa Gala on August 14, 2022 in Marbella, Spain. | Source: Getty Images
While their relationship blossomed away from the hustle of Hollywood, Richard’s connection to New York has been longstanding. For the past 25 years, he’s chosen to live far from the glitz of Los Angeles, favoring the calm of the East Coast.
“When I hear the word Hollywood, the first thing I think is that it’s very foreign to me,” he explained, noting that he hasn’t lived in California or filmed in Los Angeles for decades.

Richard Gere on the set of “Time Out of Mind” on March 26, 2014, in New York. | Source: Getty Images
He’s gravitated toward more independent projects, focusing on meaningful work rather than the demands of mainstream Hollywood. Part of his commitment to New York also stemmed from a desire to be close to his son, Homer James Jigme Gere, now 24, who lives nearby.

Richard Gere and his son Homer at the Utah Jazz vs New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden on March 7, 2011, in New York. | Source: Getty Images
The “Pretty Woman” star welcomed his eldest child in 2000 with his then-girlfriend of several years and former “Law & Order” star Carey Lowell. By staying in New York, he maintained a steady presence in his son’s life, which he considers a priority.

Richard Gere and his son Homer James Jigme at the ballet performance of “Mahakarya Borobudur” on June 26, 2011, in Indonesia. | Source: Getty Images
“[Homer is] the joy of my life. Loves music, very fast runner, very smart. Very funny. Pretty quick he learned irony, which is a wonderful quality for any human being,” Richard lovingly said of his son.

Homer James Jigme and Richard Gere at the “Oh, Canada” red carpet during the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 17, 2024, in France. | Source: Getty Images
In choosing to relocate to Spain, Richard Gere has embraced a life focused on family, tranquility, and cultural connection. Leaving behind Hollywood’s demands, he is set to embark on a new chapter alongside Alejandra and their children, drawn by the promise of a balanced and deeply fulfilling life in Madrid.