George Clooney, his wife Amal, and their twins, Alexander and Ella, are now French citizens. The naturalization decree, published in France's government gazette, confirms the family's long-held connection to Europe and Clooney's appreciation for France's stringent privacy laws.
Clooney, 64, has previously lauded French laws that protect his family from paparazzi intrusion. In an interview with RTL radio in early December, he stated, "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 also expressed his affection for French culture and language.
Clooney's connection to Europe predates his 2014 marriage to Amal, a British-Lebanese human rights lawyer who speaks fluent French. The actor has owned an estate in Lake Como, Italy, since 2002. The couple also purchased a historic manor in England and, in 2021, acquired a wine estate called Domaine du Canadel in southern France, near Brignoles. While they maintain residences in New York and Kentucky, they reportedly sold their properties in Los Angeles and Mexico over the past decade.
Clooney has spoken about his desire to provide his children with a normal life, away from the Hollywood spotlight. He told the New York Times in February 2025 that he finds himself drawn back to a simpler life, stating, "It's the best chance at a normal life". In October 2025, he shared with Esquire that residing on a farm in France allows his children to enjoy a balanced childhood, free from constant comparisons and the pressures of fame.
The actor's appreciation for privacy is not new. In 2022, Clooney threatened legal action against a French magazine that published unauthorized photos of his newborn twins. He has also taken steps to ensure privacy around his properties, including winning privacy laws for his Italian villa in 2014.
Clooney's career spans decades, with notable roles in "ER," the "Ocean's" trilogy, and "Michael Clayton". He has received two Oscars, one for Best Supporting Actor in "Syriana" (2006) and another as a producer for "Argo" (2012). In addition to his acting career, Clooney has earned millions through endorsements, including Nespresso, and a lucrative payout from selling his stake in a tequila brand.
The Clooneys' decision to embrace French citizenship aligns with a growing trend among high-profile individuals seeking refuge from the intense scrutiny of Hollywood. US director Jim Jarmusch recently expressed his intention to apply for French nationality, citing a desire to escape the United States and an attraction to French culture.
