Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi, one of Hollywood’s most well-known couples, have made headlines once again—not for another star-studded event or lavish real estate deal, but for a bold decision to leave the glitz of California behind. Their relocation to the English countryside has sparked a whirlwind of speculation and divided public opinion, with some applauding their fresh start and others questioning their motives.
What drove them to trade their Montecito mansion for the quaint charm of the Cotswolds? Was it purely a quest for tranquility, or are there deeper, more controversial reasons behind the move? As the spotlight continues to follow Ellen and Portia, their journey raises intriguing questions about reinvention, resilience, and the pressures of fame. Curious?
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From Hollywood to the Cotswolds: Why the Move?
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi’s decision to relocate from the U.S. to the tranquil Cotswolds in England has been attributed to both political and personal motivations. The 2024 U.S. presidential election, resulting in Donald Trump’s re-election, played a significant role in their move. A source close to the former TV host revealed that the election outcome was the primary motivator for their relocation, stating that Ellen and Portia may never return to the country.
Beyond political disillusionment, the couple’s choice reflects a desire for a more peaceful and private lifestyle. The Cotswolds, known for its picturesque landscapes and status as a celebrity haven, offers a serene environment away from the intense scrutiny of Hollywood. Their move aligns with a broader trend of high-profile individuals seeking refuge in more tranquil settings to escape the pressures of public life.
This significant lifestyle change underscores Ellen and Portia’s intent to prioritize personal well-being and privacy over the demands of their previous high-profile existence. By choosing the Cotswolds, they join a community of celebrities who value the region’s blend of natural beauty and seclusion.
The Lavish Exit: Selling Their Montecito Home
In a significant move preceding their relocation to England, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi sold their expansive Montecito, California, estate for $32 million in February 2024. This historic property, known as “Pompeiian Court,” was originally built in 1919 and spans approximately 8 acres, featuring a main house, two guest houses, a pool house, an art studio, and a staff office. The estate boasts luxurious amenities, including a wine cellar, swimming pool, tennis court, private gardens, and a chardonnay vineyard.
The couple’s history with this property is notable. They purchased it in June 2023 for $22.5 million and invested considerable effort into restoring and modernizing the historic estate before listing it for sale in October 2023. Their ability to enhance and quickly resell such properties underscores their reputation as adept real estate investors.
This sale is part of a broader pattern in DeGeneres and de Rossi’s real estate ventures. In August 2024, they sold another property—a 10-acre blufftop estate in Carpinteria, California—for a staggering $96 million. This estate included an 8,000-square-foot Tuscan farmhouse-style mansion with five bedrooms and eight bathrooms, which they had purchased in late 2022 for $41.7 million.
Their consistent success in buying, renovating, and selling high-end properties has not only contributed to their substantial wealth but also reflects their passion for real estate. As DeGeneres once mentioned, “We buy a house and we love it, and we stay in it. Then we get a little bored because we like a different style or different aesthetic—and I love furniture and decorating—so if I find something else, and we make a change, that’s it.”
The sale of their Montecito home marked a significant step in their transition from the United States to the United Kingdom, aligning with their desire for a new chapter in the tranquil English countryside.
The Cotswolds: A Celebrity Haven
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi’s move to the Cotswolds places them among a constellation of celebrities who cherish this picturesque region. Known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and tranquil ambiance, the Cotswolds has long been a magnet for those seeking respite from the public eye.
A Sanctuary for the Stars
The Cotswolds’ serene environment offers a perfect retreat for high-profile individuals. Its proximity to London—approximately a two-hour drive—provides convenient access to the city’s amenities while maintaining a peaceful distance from its hustle and bustle. This balance has attracted numerous celebrities, including:
- David and Victoria Beckham: The power couple owns a country estate near the celebrity-loved Soho Farmhouse, a luxury hotel and private members’ club in the Cotswolds. They reportedly purchased their home for $7.7 million in December 2016 and have since renovated it to include a garden, pool, sauna, football pitch, spa, and treehouse.
- Kate Moss: The supermodel resides in a 10-bedroom house in Little Faringdon and is often spotted dining at local establishments.
- Elizabeth Hurley: The actress owns a £3 million property in the region, drawn by its idyllic landscapes.
- Damien Hirst: The renowned artist has also made the Cotswolds his home, appreciating its inspiring scenery.
Embracing the Local Scene
Since their relocation, Ellen and Portia have been immersing themselves in the local culture. They were recently spotted at The Farmer’s Dog, a pub owned by TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson, enjoying an acoustic set by the Irish band The Corrs. Ellen’s new brunette look made her nearly unrecognizable to fellow patrons.
Their presence at such events indicates a desire to integrate into the community and enjoy the region’s offerings. The Cotswolds’ reputation as a haven for celebrities seeking privacy and a slower pace of life aligns with Ellen and Portia’s motivations for their move.
In summary, the Cotswolds provides Ellen and Portia with a serene environment among like-minded individuals who value both privacy and proximity to urban conveniences. Their move reflects a broader trend of celebrities seeking solace in this charming English countryside.
Ellen’s Fall from Grace and Netflix Redemption Attempt
Ellen DeGeneres, once celebrated as the “Queen of Nice,” faced a significant public reckoning in 2020 when allegations surfaced accusing her of fostering a toxic workplace environment on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Reports detailed instances of racism, intimidation, and sexual misconduct by senior staff, leading to an internal investigation and the dismissal of three top producers.
In response to the controversy, DeGeneres addressed the allegations during the show’s 18th season premiere, stating, “I learned that things happened here that never should have happened. I take that very seriously. And I want to say I am so sorry to the people who were affected.”
Seeking to rebuild her public image, DeGeneres released a Netflix stand-up special titled For Your Approval in September 2024. In this special, she candidly discusses the fallout from the allegations, humorously remarking, “They kicked me out of show business because I was mean. Can’t be mean in show business. They’ll kick you out.”
The special received mixed reviews. TIME magazine criticized it for lacking depth, stating, “DeGeneres promised to ‘talk about it’ in For Your Approval, her farewell stand-up special. Unfortunately, she has nothing of value to say.”
Conversely, The Wrap acknowledged her attempt to address the controversy, noting, “After her popular daytime talk show imploded, Ellen DeGeneres pushes back on the accusation that she’s a mean person in new Netflix comedy special.”
Despite these efforts, some former employees felt the special misrepresented the severity of the allegations. One former staffer expressed disappointment, stating, “Not only is she reframing the narrative to make herself a victim, but she’s also downplaying the serious harm she caused to many people.”
Public Reaction: Cheers, Jeers, and Everything In Between
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi’s relocation to the Cotswolds has ignited a spectrum of public reactions, reflecting the couple’s complex standing in popular culture.
Supporters’ Views: Seeking Peace and a Fresh Start
Many fans view the move as a positive step toward tranquility and personal renewal. Supporters believe that after years in the public eye and recent controversies, Ellen and Portia deserve a peaceful retreat. Comments on social media express well-wishes, with one user stating, “Bon Voyage!”
Critics’ Accusations: Avoiding Accountability
Conversely, detractors argue that the relocation is an attempt to evade responsibility for past actions, particularly allegations of a toxic work environment on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Some critics have been vocal, with remarks like, “Ellen, you could run but you can’t hide! It’s all going to catch up to you.”
Neutral Observations: A Personal Choice in a Polarizing World
Neutral observers perceive the move as a personal decision, influenced by various factors including political climate and lifestyle preferences. They note that such relocations are common among celebrities seeking privacy and a change of pace. The Cotswolds, known for its serene environment, has attracted other high-profile individuals, making it a logical choice for those desiring a quieter life.
A New Chapter in the English Countryside
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi’s relocation to the Cotswolds marks a significant transition in their lives, influenced by personal and political factors. Their move reflects a desire for tranquility and a fresh start, away from the intense scrutiny of their past. As they settle into their new environment, the couple embarks on a journey of renewal, embracing the serene landscapes and cultural richness of rural England. This chapter not only signifies a geographical shift but also represents their ongoing commitment to personal growth and mutual support.
