Richard Gere, the iconic star of Pretty Woman and An Officer and a Gentleman, has announced his decision to leave Hollywood behind and embark on a new chapter in Spain. Gere, 75, shared this life-changing plan during a recent interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where he described the move as a major adventure for his family.
A New Life in Madrid
Gere and his wife, Alejandra Silva, along with their sons Alexander (5) and James (4), are relocating to Madrid, Spain, where Silva’s roots run deep. The couple, married since 2018, will also be closer to Silva’s extended family.
“My wife is Spanish,” Gere joked during his conversation with Fallon. “She gave me about seven years here [in the U.S.], so we’re going to spend some years in Madrid.” The audience gasped at the news, prompting Gere to reassure fans, “Of course, I’ll be back!”
A Family-Centric Decision
For Gere, the move represents more than just a geographic shift; it’s about embracing family and culture. Alejandra, who grew up in a large Spanish family, is already planning for lively gatherings in their new home. “Her grandmother was the glue that held everything together,” Gere explained, noting that Silva is preparing to step into that familial role. “She’s already planning Sunday lunches for 35 people.”
Gere also highlighted the benefits for their children, who are bilingual and ready to thrive in their new environment. Additionally, Gere’s son Homer (24) from his marriage to Carey Lowell and Alejandra’s son Albert (11) from her previous marriage to Govind Friedland will likely visit and share in the adventure.
A New Chapter for the Gere Family
In an earlier interview with Vanity Fair Spain, Gere reflected on the upcoming move, calling it “a great adventure.” “For me, going to Madrid is going to be fascinating,” he said, “because I have never lived full-time outside the United States. And I think it will be very interesting for my children as well. For Alejandra, it will be wonderful to be closer to her family, her lifelong friends, and her culture.”
Following the Path of Other Stars
Richard Gere joins a growing list of Hollywood stars who have opted to leave Los Angeles in search of new beginnings. Whether it’s for family, personal growth, or a change of pace, this trend underscores the evolving priorities of some of the entertainment world’s biggest names.