What's happened
George Clooney, his wife Amal, and their twins have been officially granted French citizenship, according to France’s government. The actor, who owns property in France, Italy, and the US, has expressed a desire for his family to enjoy a quieter, paparazzi-free life in France. The naturalization was announced in the French government gazette.
What's behind the headline?
Clooney’s naturalization reflects a broader trend among celebrities seeking European citizenship for privacy and lifestyle reasons. France’s privacy laws, which shield families from paparazzi, are a key attraction. Clooney’s ownership of multiple European estates underscores his commitment to a quieter life outside Hollywood. This move may influence other high-profile figures to pursue European nationality for similar reasons. The timing suggests a strategic emphasis on privacy and family well-being, potentially impacting his public image and future projects. The decision also highlights the cultural and legal appeal of France for international celebrities seeking refuge from media scrutiny.
What the papers say
The New York Times reports Clooney’s official naturalization and his comments on privacy and family life. The Independent confirms the legal process and details of the naturalization, noting Clooney’s property investments and lifestyle choices. Reuters highlights Clooney’s emphasis on privacy for his children and the significance of French laws. France 24 provides context on Clooney’s European property holdings and his longstanding ties to the continent, emphasizing his affinity for French culture and legal protections. These sources collectively portray Clooney’s move as a calculated step to prioritize family privacy and European lifestyle benefits.
How we got here
Clooney and his wife Amal purchased an estate in France in 2021, citing a desire to raise their children away from Hollywood's paparazzi culture. Clooney owns multiple properties across Europe and the US, and has long maintained strong ties to Europe, including Italy and the UK. The move to French citizenship aligns with his emphasis on privacy and family life.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Are Celebrities Getting New Nationalities and What Does It Mean?
Many celebrities are now acquiring new nationalities, sparking curiosity about their reasons and the implications. From privacy concerns to business opportunities, the trend raises questions about why stars like George Clooney are choosing to become citizens of other countries. Below, we explore the motivations behind these moves and what they mean for celebrities and their families.
More on these topics
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George Timothy Clooney is an American actor, film director, producer, and screenwriter. He is the recipient of three Golden Globe Awards and two Academy Awards, one for acting in Syriana and the other for co-producing Argo.
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France, officially the French Republic, is a country consisting of metropolitan France in Western Europe and several overseas regions and territories.
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Amal Clooney (née Alamuddin; born (1978-02-03)3 February 1978) is a British-Lebanese international human rights lawyer. She has represented several high-profile clients, including former Maldivian president Mohamed Nasheed, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assan
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James Robert Jarmusch ( JAR-məsh; born January 22, 1953) is an American filmmaker and musician.
He has been a major proponent of independent cinema since the 1980s, directing films such as Stranger Than Paradise (1984), Down by Law (1986), Mystery Train.