Richard Gere spoke candidly about his life changes following his Spain relocation with his family, sharing both what he cherishes and what he misses most. While adjusting to the rhythms of Spanish culture, Gere admitted that the unique energy of New York City still holds a special place in his heart.
Gere Reflects on Life in Spain Versus New York
During his recent return to the DOC NYC Visionaries Tribute Luncheon at Gotham Hall, Richard Gere explained that while he is embracing his new home, he genuinely misses the dynamic energy that defines New York. The actor’s move to Spain was made late last year alongside his wife, Alejandra Silva, their sons Alexander and James, as well as Silva’s son Albert. Life in Spain, Gere said, has proven to be a positive shift for the entire family. As he described,
“My wife is so happy in Spain, so that’s the best part of that,”
adding,
“She has wonderful family, wonderful friends.”
— Richard Gere, Actor
The move was motivated in large part by the desire to be closer to Silva’s roots. In April 2024, Gere told Vanity Fair Spain,
“For Alejandra, it will be wonderful to be closer to her family, her lifelong friends and her culture.”
He further recognized the need for balance in their relationship, noting,
“She was very generous in giving me six years living in my world, so it is only fair that I give her at least another six living in hers.”
— Richard Gere, Actor
Discovering the Joy of Spanish Culture
Richard Gere touched on the cultural richness and spirit of Spain, expressing admiration for the way life is embraced there. He observed,
“Spanish culture, there’s a very open joy about it,”
and added that in Spain, people are
“very warm and very open and a lot less stressed than what you find here in the U.S.”
— Richard Gere, Actor
For Gere, not only does Spanish daily life bring happiness, but so does the cuisine and the general spirit of the people. Comparing Spain to Italy, he commented,
“It’s a very happy place. Like the Italians. I mean, being in Italy, being in Spain, you’re dealing with Latin cultures that just understand life in a different way than we do here.”
— Richard Gere, Actor
His positive impressions continued when speaking to Vanity Fair Spain:
“I love Spain and I think your lifestyle is fabulous,”
he stated, adding,
“Also your ability to live transmitting joy and happiness. It is a beautiful place, the food is extraordinary and the people exude sensitivity and generosity, as well as a strong will to laugh and enjoy.”
— Richard Gere, Actor
Embracing Change While Retaining Old Connections
Gere acknowledged that moving abroad was a substantial life change, calling it a
“great adventure because I have never lived full-time outside the United States,”
yet the decision to relocate was not a permanent goodbye to the U.S. Gere assured that he and his family plan to travel regularly and maintain a residence in New York, allowing them to keep their connection to the city alive.
Richard Gere and Alejandra Silva’s story began in 2014, shortly after Gere’s previous marriage to Carey Lowell ended. Together, they have formed a blended family, including sons Alexander and James, Silva’s son Albert, and Gere’s eldest, Homer, from his marriage to Lowell. Their dynamic lives now span continents as they balance old relationships and new experiences between Spain and New York.
Impact and Looking Ahead
The actor’s reflections underscore the balancing act many families face in a globalized world. By prioritizing both his wife’s happiness and his own connections to New York, Gere sets an example of adapting gracefully to major change. Fans and observers can expect to see the couple traveling between countries, as Gere continues to enjoy the best of both cultures, carefully maintaining his ties to friends and places that matter most.
