In a bold and deeply personal statement, actor Richard Gere has revealed that after relocating to Spain, he has no plans of returning to the United States, citing a profound disconnection with the current political and cultural climate. The renowned actor, known for his roles in Pretty Woman and An Officer and a Gentleman, explained that his decision to settle in Spain was motivated by his belief that “the U.S. no longer fits my values.”

Gere, who has been a vocal advocate for progressive causes throughout his career, shared his concerns about the direction of the United States in an interview with a Spanish media outlet. “I’ve always been someone who values compassion, equality, and justice. But over the past several years, I’ve felt a growing divide in the U.S.,” Gere stated. “The environment has become more divisive, and the issues that matter most to me—human rights, environmental protection, social equality—are being sidelined in favor of political and corporate interests. I just don’t feel like it’s the country I once knew or loved.”

The actor’s decision to move abroad is not just a personal one but also an expression of his disillusionment with the state of American politics and society. Gere has been involved in various humanitarian efforts throughout his life, including his long-standing advocacy for Tibet and its people, as well as his support for environmental and refugee causes. His views on these issues have often placed him at odds with the political mainstream in the U.S., and it seems that this friction contributed to his decision to leave.

While Gere didn’t elaborate on specific political events that pushed him to make this move, his comments appear to reflect a broader sense of frustration with the polarization and what he perceives as a decline in values such as empathy and community. He emphasized the importance of living in a country where he feels aligned with the values of the society around him.

“I’ve spent a lot of time in Spain over the years, and the culture here, the way people care for each other and their communities, just resonates with me on a deeper level,” he added. “I want to be in a place where compassion is valued, and I can live my life without constantly feeling like I’m at odds with the direction my home country is heading.”

Gere’s comments are likely to resonate with other public figures and everyday Americans who feel similarly disconnected from the current political environment in the U.S. As many people continue to grapple with the divisions and challenges that have emerged in recent years, Gere’s choice to move abroad offers a stark reflection of how some are seeking to find peace and alignment with their personal values.

The actor’s relocation to Spain also comes as part of a broader trend, with more Americans, particularly those disillusioned with U.S. politics and social issues, opting to move abroad in search of a better quality of life or a more compatible social atmosphere. Spain, with its rich cultural heritage, progressive social policies, and more relaxed lifestyle, has become a popular destination for expatriates in recent years.

While Gere’s departure from the U.S. is unlikely to impact his career in Hollywood, it adds to the ongoing conversation about the challenges facing Americans who feel alienated by the current political and social landscape. His statement underscores the complex emotions many are feeling about the future of the United States, and his move to Spain serves as a poignant reminder of the power of personal values in shaping one’s decisions about where to live and how to engage with the world.