The Great Escape: Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi Begin a New Life in Rural England

Ellen DeGeneres, once a cornerstone of American daytime television, and her wife, Portia de Rossi, have turned the page to an entirely new chapter in their lives. The power couple has left the hustle and bustle of the United States behind, relocating to the serene Cotswolds region of England. This monumental decision, reportedly influenced by both personal and political motivations, marks a profound shift for the couple.

A Quiet Departure

The move to rural England follows years of public scrutiny and change for DeGeneres. Known for her signature humor and the mantra "be kind," DeGeneres faced a challenging period after allegations of workplace toxicity emerged during the final years of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. In 2022, these reports led to the abrupt conclusion of the long-running program, leaving the comedian to redefine her next steps.

According to sources close to the former TV host, the election of Donald Trump was the final push that prompted her and de Rossi to consider a fresh start abroad. The couple reportedly decided they no longer felt at home in the U.S. and wanted to begin anew in the peaceful English countryside.

The Move to the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, known for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages, offers the perfect retreat. DeGeneres and de Rossi have already settled into their new home, leaving their sprawling Montecito estate behind. Their California property, a stunning mansion acquired in 2019, has either been pocket-listed or will soon be on the market, according to reports.

While the exact details of their English residence remain private, the move signifies a drastic lifestyle change. DeGeneres has embraced rural living, sharing that she’s taken up gardening and raising chickens—a stark contrast to her former Hollywood-centric lifestyle.

A Career at a Crossroads

DeGeneres’ decision to step away from the spotlight comes after a tumultuous end to her television career. In a recent Netflix special titled Four Your Approval, she reflected on the irony of being labeled “unkind” despite her public persona. The comedian quipped, “The ‘be kind’ girl wasn’t kind. That was the headline.”

DeGeneres further pondered whether setting different expectations might have changed public perception. “If I ended my show with ‘Go f* yourselves,’ people might’ve been pleasantly surprised to find out I’m actually kind,” she joked during the special.

With her career in Hollywood effectively on pause, DeGeneres has chosen to explore quieter passions, such as her newfound love for nature and simple living. Meanwhile, de Rossi remains focused on her business ventures, which include the development of her art curation company.

A Broader Trend Among Celebrities?

DeGeneres and de Rossi are not alone in their sentiments. Other public figures, including Sharon Stone and Cher, have expressed dissatisfaction with the current political and social climate in the U.S., even hinting at relocation. While few have taken steps as definitive as DeGeneres, the couple’s move highlights a growing trend of high-profile individuals re-evaluating their ties to the United States.

Moving Forward

For DeGeneres and de Rossi, this new chapter represents an opportunity to reclaim their privacy and focus on their personal lives. The serene landscapes of the Cotswolds offer a stark contrast to the glare of Hollywood’s spotlight, allowing them to embrace a slower, more intentional way of living.

Although DeGeneres has stepped back from show business, her legacy as a groundbreaking comedian and talk show host remains undeniable. As the couple settles into their new life, fans and critics alike will watch to see how this move shapes the next phase of their journey.