Willow and Hearth

Ellen DeGeneres shocked many when she left the U.S. over a year ago, relocating to the U.K. after Donald Trump’s reelection. Now, she is planning a return to Hollywood and California, signaling a major shift in her personal and professional life. Despite the move abroad, Ellen has decided she misses the sunny climate and her friends, motivating her to head back to the U.S. sooner than expected.

The decision to come back also ties to her wife, Portia de Rossi’s, desire to pursue acting again, along with their need for a more familiar lifestyle. After selling much of their American real estate, the couple seems ready to reestablish their home base and possibly reignite Ellen’s career in entertainment. Their return marks an unexpected but intriguing U-turn after a year away.

Fans and observers alike are curious about what this move means for Ellen’s future in Hollywood. Will she resume her role as a beloved talk show host, or explore new directions? This upcoming chapter offers fresh possibilities after a period marked by controversy and change. Learn more about Ellen DeGeneres’ plans and what brought her back to California by exploring her move’s details.

Why Ellen DeGeneres Left the United States

Ellen DeGeneres’ departure from the U.S. was influenced by a mix of political and personal reasons. She and her wife, Portia de Rossi, sought a fresh start far from the Hollywood spotlight and the challenges they faced back home. Several factors, from the national political scene to concerns about civil rights, shaped their decision.

Political Climate and Donald Trump’s Presidency

One major factor behind Ellen’s move was the political environment during Donald Trump’s presidency. Following Trump’s re-election in 2024, Ellen expressed discomfort with the direction the country was taking. She openly attributed her decision to leave partly to Trump’s return to office, which she felt signaled a shift in American values that made her uneasy.

The presidency affected not only the public atmosphere but also the entertainment industry environment. Reportedly, Ellen experienced challenges in Hollywood after ending her talk show, which some linked to the changing cultural climate under Trump’s influence. This combination motivated her and Portia to pursue a quieter life abroad.

Concerns Over LGBTQ+ Rights

Ellen and Portia also cited worries about the state of LGBTQ+ rights in the U.S. during and after Trump’s administration. There was a growing sense of uncertainty about civil rights protections and inclusivity. This created a climate where the couple felt their values and safety might be better supported outside the U.S.

The importance of living in a place where their identities were embraced played a significant role in their relocation to the Cotswolds, England. They wanted a peaceful environment reflecting the openness and acceptance they sought, contrasting with what they perceived as rising divisiveness back home.

Initial Plans for Life Abroad

When Ellen and Portia first moved to the UK in 2023, their goal was a long-term change. They purchased a farmhouse in the Cotswolds, investing around £15 million, aiming for privacy and a slower pace away from the Hollywood scene.

Besides lifestyle preferences, financial factors also influenced the move. High taxes and an expensive real estate market in California made downsizing attractive. The couple began selling their multiple U.S. properties, hoping the shift would provide both comfort and economic benefits while they figured out their next steps.

Ellen DeGeneres’ real reason behind abrupt US exit

Life in the Cotswolds: Challenges and Adaptation

Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi traded Hollywood glam for rural life in the Cotswolds, facing new routines and cultural shifts. Their days now revolve around adapting to the slower pace, managing the British weather, and embracing local customs—all while maintaining elements of their passions and lifestyle.

Settling Into the English Countryside

Moving from California to the quaint Cotswolds marked a major change for Ellen and Portia. They settled into a sprawling farmhouse surrounded by rolling green hills, offering a serene escape from city noise. Ellen has embraced farming chores like caring for chickens and briefly managing sheep on their property, a stark contrast to her previous life.

The couple appreciates the architecture and charm of the villages, with Ellen calling the environment “absolutely beautiful.” Despite occasional challenges with local planning authorities over property changes, they seem committed to integrating with the community. Their social media gives followers glimpses of peaceful countryside views, signaling a steady adjustment to rural living.

Portia de Rossi’s Equestrian Lifestyle

Portia brought a key piece of their previous life with her to the UK—her horses. She arranged to have them flown to the Cotswolds, preserving her commitment to equestrian activities. This move keeps Portia connected to a long-held passion while enriching their countryside lifestyle.

The equestrian setup influences daily routines, from stable maintenance to regular rides across the lush Cotswolds hills. It also ties them closer to local equestrian communities, fostering new relationships. Portia’s dedication reveals how the move isn’t just about change but also continuity, blending new surroundings with familiar interests.

Adapting to UK Weather and Culture

Adjusting to the UK’s often unpredictable weather has been an eye-opener for Ellen. Seeing snow for the first time and navigating frequent rain required new wardrobe decisions and mindset shifts. The damp, cooler climate contrasts sharply with the Californian sun they left behind.

Culturally, Ellen notes a welcoming politeness and cleaner environment in the Cotswolds. She appreciates local customs that emphasize simplicity and respect for animals. Social etiquette, the pace of life, and community focus represent a fresh dynamic that differs but also appeals to them. Embracing these aspects helps ease the transition and deepens their connection to the area.

For more insight into Ellen’s new life in the UK’s countryside, visit Ellen DeGeneres’ life in the Cotswolds.

The Turning Point: Signs of a Hollywood Comeback

After stepping away from the U.S. and Hollywood, Ellen DeGeneres began showing clear signs that she might be ready to reenter the entertainment world. Changes in her lifestyle, property decisions, and renewed thoughts on her connections to California indicate a shift in direction.

Emerging Frustrations and Lifestyle Changes

Since moving to a large farm in the Cotswolds with her wife, Portia de Rossi, Ellen’s lifestyle took a slow, reflective turn. However, sources reveal she started feeling frustrated with the slower pace and isolation away from showbiz. The comedian, who once thrived on the adrenaline and instant feedback of performing, felt the urge to reconnect with her artistic roots.

This led Ellen to quietly prepare material for her comeback through stand-up comedy and a Netflix special. After the public fallout from the toxic workplace allegations and the end of her talk show in 2022, she needed time to regain her creative energy. Now, she’s ready to share her story and humor again, blending her personal experiences with comedy, showing a clear desire to entertain once more.

Selling the Cotswolds Property

Ellen and Portia purchased a sizable estate in the Cotswolds, England, after leaving California, marking a significant chapter in their lives. However, recent reports suggest they are in the process of selling this property. This move could be a clear indicator Ellen is preparing to return to the U.S. or Hollywood’s entertainment circles.

The couple’s choice to offload such a large asset reflects shifting priorities. Their time on the farm was meant for healing and reflection, but selling the estate signals a readiness to leave the retreat behind. This decision aligns with Ellen supporting ongoing projects like her comedy tour and upcoming Netflix special, which require her to be more visible and active in entertainment hubs.

Missing California Connections

Despite her physical move, Ellen has expressed missing her life in California, particularly the creative community and long-term friendships. She has stayed close to Hollywood friends and neighbors, including high-profile connections with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, showing she remains engaged with influential social circles.

This longing for her previous environment has fueled her comeback plans. With a deep history in California’s entertainment landscape, Ellen’s ties to the state continue to pull her back toward the industry. Her network and experiences there are vital to relaunching her career, highlighted by her recent appearances and support from fellow celebrities in Los Angeles.

These elements together illustrate a clear turning point, hinting at Ellen’s intentional approach to reclaim a role in Hollywood after a year of stepping away. For more details on her evolving journey, visit Ellen DeGeneres’ Hollywood comeback plans.

Returning to California: What We Know

Ellen DeGeneres and her wife, Portia de Rossi, are preparing to spend more time in California, driven by both personal and professional reasons. Their plans involve reconnecting with close friends and family and exploring new opportunities in Hollywood. The timeline for their move reflects a shift in priorities since their relocation to England in 2024.

Timeline of the Planned Move

Ellen and Portia moved to the English countryside in late 2024, shortly after Donald Trump’s re-election. Initially, they intended to stay in the UK while Trump remained president. However, reports from late 2025 indicate the couple is now planning to return to California soon.

They have already sold their expansive Oxfordshire estate and moved to a more private mansion in England. Despite this, the struggle with cold British winters and longing for California’s warmth have accelerated their decision. Ellen has told friends that they expect to be back in California before the end of 2025 or early 2026.

Reuniting with Friends and Family

One major factor behind their planned return is the desire to reconnect with long-time friends and family. The couple missed the social connections they built over years in California. Portia, especially, looks forward to seeing friends who remained in Hollywood.

Family ties also play a role. Portia’s mother has been mentioned as part of the support system in California, and Ellen has been seen visiting friends and family in the state multiple times in recent months. The warmth of California’s climate and lifestyle is another draw for Ellen and Portia, contrasting sharply with the colder, quieter life in the UK.

Opportunities Awaiting in Hollywood

Professionally, California remains a practical and attractive base for Ellen and Portia. Portia de Rossi is eager to resume her acting career, which California’s entertainment industry supports best. Ellen, too, has connections and opportunities that align better with Hollywood.

The move back will allow Portia to pursue new projects more easily while Ellen can tap into her established network for future ventures. Their return signals a renewed focus on balancing personal happiness with career ambitions, making California a logical choice for both lifestyle and work.

For more details, see reports on Ellen DeGeneres’s planned California return at Times Now News.

Portia de Rossi’s Role in the Decision

Portia de Rossi’s career goals and her support for Ellen DeGeneres have been critical in shaping their plans to return to the U.S. Her desire to return to acting and shared lifestyle preferences with Ellen weigh heavily on the couple’s decisions about where to live next.

Career Aspirations in Acting

Portia de Rossi has expressed a clear interest in reigniting her acting career, which is a significant factor prompting the couple’s potential move back to California. After stepping back from the spotlight, she is looking for new opportunities to engage with film or television projects again.

The UK’s limited acting environment compared to Hollywood may restrict the roles available to her. Returning to the U.S. provides better access to auditions and industry connections. This career motivation has been cited as one of the main reasons the couple is reconsidering their life in the British countryside, especially since Portia is eager to pursue creative projects that aren’t as accessible abroad.

Supporting Ellen DeGeneres’ Next Steps

Portia’s support of Ellen’s decisions extends beyond career ambitions. She has been a steady partner as Ellen navigated public challenges and adjusted their life after moving away from the U.S. Together, they prioritize comfort, friendships, and lifestyle preferences.

One important consideration is their mutual dislike for the cold UK winters, which Portia shares. This practical aspect, combined with their desire to reconnect with friends and familiar surroundings, influences their decision. Portia’s encouragement of Ellen’s plans reflects a close partnership where both consider personal happiness alongside professional goals. Their shared vision makes this potential move a joint effort rather than an individual choice.

For more background on their evolving plans and challenges, see Ellen and Portia’s reported move considerations.

Looking Ahead: The Future for Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi

Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi are setting their sights on new opportunities that could mark a fresh chapter in their lives and careers. Their plans involve both exploring Hollywood ventures and balancing life between the U.S. and the U.K.

Potential New Ventures in Hollywood

After stepping away from the spotlight following their move to the U.K., Ellen appears ready to re-engage with Hollywood. Portia de Rossi, too, is interested in returning to acting, which she reportedly wants to pursue more actively now.

Ellen’s experience as a talk show host and producer puts her in a strong position to launch projects behind the scenes or even make selective on-camera appearances. The couple’s return to California will allow them access to industry networks and resources essential for these ambitions.

This new phase could include collaborations, producing, or even new genres of content. Both have the visibility and creative freedom to shape ventures that reflect their personal and professional growth.

Plans for Bi-Continental Living

Though Ellen and Portia are returning to the U.S., they are not completely closing the door on their life in England. The couple wants to maintain ties to both locations, balancing time to enjoy friends, family, and career opportunities on both continents.

Their previous homes, including their large Cotswolds estate with horse facilities, highlight their desire for comfort and privacy outside Hollywood. Meanwhile, the California return promises warmer weather and reconnecting with their circle.

This bi-continental approach allows flexibility — for Portia to continue acting, with access to U.S. casting, and for Ellen to manage projects across borders. It also helps them avoid the harsh British winters while keeping their diverse lifestyles intact.