George and Amal Clooney Obtain French Citizenship
George and Amal Clooney have officially become French citizens, a decision influenced by their concerns about raising their children in Hollywood.
This new status for the couple and their 8-year-old twins, Alexander and Ella, was announced in a French government magazine over the weekend.
Representatives for the family have not yet commented on the news.
In 2021, the Clooneys purchased a farm in southern France for $8.3 million, highlighting their commitment to their new lifestyle.
George discussed the experience of parenting on a farm in a recent interview, reflecting on how fortunate they feel. He mentioned, “I grew up on a farm for a significant part of my life, and, to be honest, I wasn’t a fan of it back then.”
He added, “For the kids, it’s about not relying on technology. They have to sit down for dinner with adults and help set the table. It feels like a better childhood for them.”
However, he expressed his worries about raising children in Los Angeles due to the influence of Hollywood culture. “I just felt they wouldn’t have a fair chance,” he said. “In France, fame isn’t held in such high esteem.”
George emphasized his desire for his children to lead a normal life, free from the pressures of celebrity status. “I don’t want them to have to deal with paparazzi or be compared to other famous kids,” he explained.
Earlier this month, he elaborated on how much he enjoys living in France during a radio interview, joking about his ongoing struggles with the language despite taking an extensive course. He laughed, saying, “I’m still quite awful at it.”
Both Clooneys cherish their children’s privacy, noting that in France, they “don’t have to worry about photos being snapped at school gates.” For them, that’s a significant advantage of their new life.
In a separate conversation, George mentioned he feels content with where he is in life now. “I love what I do and cherish my friendships. It’s a blessing to spend time with loved ones, especially at this stage in my life,” he said.
