George and Amal Clooney Become French Citizens Amid Privacy Concerns

PARIS, Dec 30 (Reuters) – Hollywood star George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, officially became French citizens with their two children, Alexander and Ella. The decree was confirmed through official French government documents released on Monday.

The Clooneys moved to a $10.59 million vineyard estate in Brignoles, southern France, in 2021. They sought residence in France, in part, for the country’s strict privacy laws that help protect their family from media attention.

In an interview with RTL earlier this month, Clooney emphasized the importance of privacy for his family. “Here, they don’t take photos of kids. There aren’t any paparazzi hidden at the school gates. That’s number one for us,” he stated, underscoring their desire for a more normal life.

Clooney, who has spent time in Europe long before his marriage to Amal, praised French culture and expressed affection for the language, despite admitting he’s still learning after 400 days of courses. “I love the French culture,” he said.

The family’s new vineyard estate, Domaine du Canadel, includes amenities such as a swimming pool and a tennis court. George mentioned how their home in France is where they feel the happiest, despite having properties in the United States, Italy, and England.

“I have a goal of trying to protect, I don’t want pictures of my kids,” Clooney shared, highlighting his commitment to shielding Alexander and Ella from public scrutiny.

The Clooneys are not the only public figures looking for a quieter life in France. Director Jim Jarmusch recently expressed his intentions to apply for French citizenship, citing a desire to escape from the U.S. and his deep appreciation for French culture.