Oscar-nominated actress and director Kristen Stewart is contemplating leaving the United States as Donald Trump begins his second term in office. Speaking during an interview with The Times of London, Stewart, who splits her time between Los Angeles and New York, expressed doubts about staying in America, citing limited freedom to work.
She said,
“I can’t work freely there. But I don’t want to give up completely. I’d like to make movies in Europe and then shove them down the throat of the American people.”
Kristen Stewart, Actress and Director
Criticism of Political Climate Influences Stewart’s Outlook
Stewart described the environment under Trump’s presidency as one where normal reality seems to be unraveling, but she suggested adopting a proactive approach inspired by the president’s tactics. She shared,
“Reality is breaking completely under Trump. But we should take a page out of his book and create the reality we want to live in.”
Kristen Stewart, Actress and Director
If Stewart relocates with her wife, screenwriter Dylan Meyer, it would place her among other high-profile figures, such as Ellen DeGeneres, Rosie O’Donnell, and James Cameron, who have also departed the U.S. amidst political tensions during Trump’s administration.
Stewart Addresses Tariff Threats and Challenges in U.S. Filmmaking
During the interview, Stewart responded to President Trump’s ongoing threats to impose tariffs on films produced outside America. She labeled these actions as terrifying for the film industry, noting that her directorial debut, The Chronology of Water, was filmed in Latvia because producing it domestically would have been unfeasible.
Grounded in Lidia Yuknavitch’s memoir, the film explores the tumultuous life of a woman overcoming abuse, addiction, and toxic relationships by finding her voice through writing.
Stewart remarked,
“it would have been impossible to do in the States.”
Kristen Stewart, Actress and Director
Stewart’s History of Speaking Out Against Trump
Kristen Stewart has been vocally critical of Donald Trump for years, facing public backlash before his presidency. In 2012, Trump publicly commented on a rumored reconciliation between Stewart and fellow actor Robert Pattinson after their high-profile breakup, advising Pattinson against taking Stewart back.
Possible Impact and the Future of Stewart’s Career
Should Stewart follow through on moving abroad, this decision highlights the ongoing cultural and political challenges faced by artists within the U.S. under Trump’s administration. Her interest in creating films in Europe could pave the way for new opportunities while directly addressing obstacles she encounters at home. As the political climate continues to affect the entertainment industry, Kristen Stewart’s move might influence other creatives considering similar paths.
