In a rare public appearance, Ellen DeGeneres shared her thoughts on her decision to relocate to the United Kingdom following Donald Trump‘s second term as President. During an engaging event at the Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham, the Emmy-winning television personality sat down for an insightful discussion with broadcaster Richard Bacon, where she candidly reflected on her departure from the United States and the fresh start she embarked on in the UK.
Ellen DeGeneres Explains Her Move to the UK Following Trump’s Election
The accomplished Daytime Emmy Awards winner expressed her strong opinions about life in the UK, asserting that it is “just better.” During her appearance on the Cheltenham show on July 20, she revealed that the outcome of Donald Trump‘s re-election significantly influenced her and her wife Portia de Rossi to relocate permanently to the UK.
Ellen DeGeneres revealed that she and Portia de Rossi had originally purchased a property in the UK to serve as their “part-time house.” However, upon learning of Trump’s re-election, they made the decisive choice to extend their stay and embrace a new life in the country. (via BBC)
She recounted to the audience, “We arrived the day before the election and woke up to a flurry of texts from friends filled with crying emojis, and I knew he had won.” The election results played a pivotal role in their decision-making process, prompting them to conclude, “And we’re like, ‘We’re staying here’.”
Since their relocation in 2024, DeGeneres and de Rossi have been relishing the tranquility and beauty of the English countryside. When discussing their new life, the veteran talk show host expressed her admiration, stating, “We’re just not accustomed to witnessing such breathtaking beauty. The quaint villages, charming towns, and stunning architecture – everything captivates us.”
The Finding Dory star also elaborated on their activities since their move last year. She shared that she experienced snow “for the first time” since they arrived in November. “We absolutely love it here. Portia even brought her horses, and I have chickens now, plus we had sheep for about two weeks,” she added with enthusiasm.
While reflecting on their experiences, DeGeneres also addressed the pressing issue of queer rights in the US. She expressed concern about the actions of the Baptist Church in America, which is attempting to roll back gay marriage rights. Commenting on the future of marital rights for the LGBTQ+ community, she voiced her apprehension that there might be efforts to “reverse” these rights down the line.
Additionally, Ellen DeGeneres hinted that she and Portia de Rossi might consider remarrying in the UK if the rules surrounding gay marriage in the U.S. were to change. She also highlighted the uncertainties that LGBTQ+ individuals face in the United States, stating, “I wish we were in a society where it wasn’t frightening for people to be their true selves.” DeGeneres emphasized, “I long for a world where everyone can embrace one another and celebrate our differences.”
