Richard Gere and his wife Alejandra Silva shared a rare public display of affection at the October 16 screening of his documentary Wisdom of Happiness in New York City, highlighting the couple’s enduring bond. This intimate moment on the red carpet drew attention to their strong relationship as they supported the film together, reaffirming their connection amid their busy family life and recent international moves.
Shared Moment of Affection at Documentary Screening
The longtime actor Richard Gere, known for his role in Pretty Woman, and Alejandra Silva were seen sharing a kiss while posing for photographs at the New York event celebrating his spiritual documentary. Richard, 76, looked dapper in a blue pinstriped suit with a white button-down shirt, while Alejandra, 42, wore an elegant black gown, both exuding sophistication suitable for the occasion. Their affectionate gesture brought warmth to the moment, revealing their romance remains strong.
The documentary, which features teachings from the Dalai Lama on finding peace and happiness, is a project close to the Gere family. Richard served as executive producer, and the couple previously supported the film’s premiere in Zurich in October 2023. Their ongoing involvement with the film demonstrates their shared values and commitment.
Dedication to Spiritual Teachings and Family
Reflecting on the Dalai Lama’s influence during the Zurich premiere, Richard Gere expressed deep respect, saying,
“He’s spent almost 90 years on this planet helping people,”
and added,
“It’s such an inspiration to be around that and realize that if we work hard, we can achieve that, too.”
These statements reveal how their spiritual journey motivates their family life.
Beyond their public appearances, Richard and Alejandra are investing energy into raising their two young sons, Alexander, 6, and James, 5. The family has transitioned from Chicago to Spain, their new home since late last year, where Alejandra and her children, including her 11-year-old son Albert from a previous relationship with Govind Friedland, live together.
Their relocation to Spain, specifically Madrid, aligns with Alejandra’s Spanish heritage and serves to integrate their children into a bilingual and multicultural environment. Richard elaborated on this transition during a November 2024 interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, stating,
“My wife is Spanish and she gave me about seven years here, so we’re going to spend some years in Madrid.”
He highlighted the benefits for their sons, emphasizing,
“Our kids are bilingual, so they’re going to flourish there.”
Balancing Life Between Spain and the United States
While they enjoy life in Spain, the couple is already planning their eventual return to the United States. Alejandra shared in an April 2025 interview with the Daily Mail:
“For a few years [we’ll live in Spain], and then come back. But we’re always coming back. We’ll come back here in the summer because we have the kids at camp. We just have to balance our lives there and here.”
This balancing act underscores the challenges faced by globally minded families juggling work, schooling, and cultural ties. For now, they embrace their time in Spain with enthusiasm and happiness. Richard Gere also shared in January 2025 with Elle España that they are “happier than ever” in their current momentum, making the most of this chapter of their lives.
Hollywood Stars Who Have Left the U.S. for New Opportunities Abroad
Richard Gere’s international move and lifestyle shift are part of a broader trend among notable celebrities seeking new chapters outside traditional Hollywood settings. Many have relocated for family, business, or personal growth reasons, embracing diverse cultures and environments. Below are examples of stars who have left Hollywood for other countries:
Ellen DeGeneres’ Move to England After Talk Show Finale
Ellen DeGeneres ended her beloved talk show in 2022 after 19 seasons, following controversies about workplace environment issues. She resurfaced with a Netflix comedy special, For Your Approval, in September 2024 and announced her retirement from the spotlight. Ellen and her wife Portia de Rossi relocated to England in November 2024, motivated by political developments after Donald Trump’s reelection. Ellen declared during her last stand-up tour,
“This is the last time you’re going to see me,”
and
“After my Netflix special, I’m done.”
Tyra Banks Settles in Australia to Support Her Ice Cream Business
Tyra Banks chose to relocate to Australia largely to expand her ice cream brand, SMiZE and Dream. During a 2025 episode of Today with Jenna & Friends, she explained,
“We’ve been more what we call B2B, like on an airplane and on cruises. I’ve been going to Australia a lot because we were making a lot of our ice cream there in a big facility doing our recipes.”
She added,
“Australia has been a dream come true for me and my family,”
reinforcing that the country‘s market potential and lifestyle suited her family’s needs.
Eva Longoria’s Lifestyle Split Between Mexico and Spain
Eva Longoria has embraced a lifestyle divided between Mexico and Spain, citing changes in Los Angeles, including the impact of COVID-19, homelessness, and taxes as her reasons for relocating. In a November 2024 interview with Marie Claire, she mentioned,
“I had my whole adult life here,”
and described how the city’s vibe shifted over time. However, she clarified that her move wasn’t politically motivated but rather driven by long-term work commitments across Spain and Mexico, where she filmed documentaries. Eva, along with her husband José Bastón and son Santiago, now spend substantial time abroad while maintaining an active acting career.
Christina Milian’s Life in Paris for Family and Education
Christina Milian and her husband, French singer Matt Pokora, decided to make Paris their home so their children could attend school there. She shared on The Jennifer Hudson Show in November 2024,
“They’re all going to school in Paris,”
highlighting the family’s commitment to embracing French culture. Christina described the experience positively, conveying the balance between an active lifestyle and professional work due to the time zone differences.
Lindsay Lohan’s Departure for Privacy and Reinvention
Lindsay Lohan left Los Angeles to escape the glare of paparazzi and public speculation that overshadowed her early career. In March 2024, she told Bustle,
“I feel like some of [my work] got overshadowed by paparazzi and all that kind of stuff when I was younger, and that’s kind of annoying.”
Her quest for personal peace led her to live in London and Dubai, where she expanded her business ventures and family life with her husband Bader Shammas and their son Luai, while continuing to act selectively.
Josh Hartnett’s Search for Balance in England
Josh Hartnett sought a life beyond Hollywood’s industry focus by moving to the Hampshire countryside in England with his wife Tamsin Egerton and their four children. He explained to People in July 2024,
“Hollywood is more than a place; it’s like a state of mind,”
emphasizing his desire for a fuller life. Though less visible on screen, Hartnett remains active in projects like Verity and Fight or Flight.
Jesse Eisenberg’s Return to Indiana for Simplicity
Oscar nominee Jesse Eisenberg prefers a quieter life, spending much of the last decade living in Indiana with his wife Anna Strout and son Banner. In a February 2025 interview, he noted,
“I’m not on social media, and I’m not a person who’s on the phone with industry people all the time,”
outlining his choice to keep his life relatively private and grounded outside Hollywood’s hustle.
Eliza Dushku Palandjian’s Shift to Mental Health Work
Former actress Eliza Dushku Palandjian, known for roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Bring It On, has redirected her career toward psychedelic-assisted therapy and mental health. As she told Boston Magazine,
“I had the means to shift directions and choose a course in my life that focused on healing myself so that I could help heal others.”
She described this new path as her true calling and passion.
Rosie O’Donnell’s Move to Ireland and Citizenship Pursuit
Rosie O’Donnell relocated to Ireland in early 2025 with her youngest child Clay, aiming to secure Irish citizenship due to her family heritage. Though she misses her friends and family in the U.S., she expressed hope to return when political conditions support equal rights for all citizens. She shared her sentiments on TikTok, stating,
“I miss my friends. I miss many things about life there at home and I’m trying to find a home here in this beautiful country.”
Evangeline Lilly’s Indefinite Acting Hiatus to Embrace Fulfillment
After two decades in the business, Evangeline Lilly announced an indefinite break from acting in June 2024. She revealed on Instagram,
“I am so filled with joy and contentment today as I live out my vision,”
adding,
“Stepping away from what seems like the obvious choice (wealth and fame) can feel scary at times, but stepping into your dharma replaces the fear with fulfillment.”
She left open the possibility of returning to acting later.
Ian Somerhalder’s Commitment to Environmental Causes
Since stepping away from acting over four years ago, Ian Somerhalder has dedicated himself to environmental activism, focusing on regenerative agriculture and soil health. In November 2023, he told E! News,
“I stepped away from acting a little over four years ago to raise my kids, build my companies and get these films launched.”
He envisions a future as a rancher and entrepreneur devoted to sustainability.
Jennette McCurdy’s Transition from Acting to Writing and Directing
Jennette McCurdy, formerly of iCarly, left acting several years ago and now concentrates on writing, directing, and podcast hosting. Reflecting on her past roles during a 2021 podcast episode, she said,
“I’m so ashamed of the parts I’ve done in the past,”
adding,
“I resent my career in a lot of ways.”
Writing has opened new possibilities for her to reengage with acting under her terms.
Meghan Markle’s Departure from Hollywood for Royal Life
Meghan Markle left her acting career behind to marry Prince Harry and dedicate herself to philanthropy and royal duties. Now residing in Montecito, California, she has resumed creative work through multi-year production deals with Netflix, releasing projects such as Harry & Meghan and With Love, Meghan, along with podcasts and her brand As Ever.
Cameron Diaz’s Decision to Pause Acting for Wellness
Cameron Diaz chose to step back from the film industry after completing Annie in 2014 to explore other interests such as writing and starting a family. She told Gwyneth Paltrow that filming is an intense grind, and she doesn’t currently miss performing, focusing instead on wellness. However, in 2025, Jamie Foxx announced she would appear in the Netflix film Back in Action, suggesting a return may be underway.
Terrence Howard’s Declaration of Retirement from Acting
Terrence Howard declared an end to his acting career following his role on Empire. In 2019, he stated,
“Oh, I’m done with acting. I’m done pretending.”
Though he briefly returned to acting for select projects, in 2022 he reaffirmed his decision, sharing,
“I’ve gotten to the point where now I’ve given the very best that I have as an actor.”
Despite this, he continues to take roles in new productions.
Jack Gleeson’s Temporary Retirement and Return to Acting
Best known for his portrayal of King Joffrey in Game of Thrones, Jack Gleeson stepped away from acting in 2014, explaining,
“I just stopped enjoying it as much as I used to.”
After a six-year break, he resumed his career in 2020 with BBC’s Out of Her Mind and other roles, balancing his craft with a more grounded perspective.
Phoebe Cates’ Focus on Family and Business
Phoebe Cates stepped away from acting to prioritize family life with actor Kevin Kline and their children. Kevin noted in an interview that they coordinate work schedules to ensure one parent is always available for their kids. Phoebe has occasionally made cameo appearances but mainly concentrates on running a New York City boutique, Blue Tree.
Rick Moranis’ Long Hiatus and Upcoming Comeback
Rick Moranis withdrew from acting after his wife’s death in 1991 to raise their children. Despite not appearing in live-action films since 1997 and turning down cameos like the 2016 Ghostbusters remake, fans look forward to his return in the upcoming Disney reboot, Shrunk, alongside Josh Gad.
Leelee Sobieski’s Retreat from Film to Focus on Family
After marrying fashion designer Adam Kimmel, Leelee Sobieski stepped back from movies, citing discomfort with typical roles involving intimacy, saying,
“Ninety percent of acting roles involve so much sexual stuff with other people, and I don’t want to do that.”
Since becoming a mother, she identifies more as a mom and artist, dedicating her time to family and personal interests.
Portia de Rossi’s Shift from Acting to Entrepreneurship
Portia de Rossi transitioned away from acting around age 45 to pursue business ventures, including launching her consumer-art company, General Public. On Ellen DeGeneres’ show in 2018, she shared,
“I kind of knew what acting would look like for me for the next 10, 20 years, so I decided to quit and start a business,”
maintaining occasional guest roles in TV shows such as Arrested Development.
Daniel Day-Lewis’ Retirement and Recent Return to the Screen
After achieving unprecedented success with three Academy Awards, Daniel Day-Lewis retired from acting following his final film, Phantom Thread. His representatives stated he would no longer act, calling it a private decision. However, in 2024, it was announced he would star in and co-write Anemone with his son Ronan Day-Lewis directing, marking his return to cinema after a hiatus.
Bridgit Mendler’s Academic and Entrepreneurial Pursuits
Bridgit Mendler stepped away from performing to pursue advanced degrees, earning a master’s from MIT and later attending Harvard Law School. She also founded Northwood Space, a startup focusing on satellite ground stations for data transmission, becoming its CEO in early 2023, showing a clear shift from entertainment to technology entrepreneurship.
