Did George Clooney and Amal Just Become French Citizens with Their Twins?

American actor George Clooney, his wife Amal, a prominent human rights lawyer, and their twin children have recently been granted French citizenship, enabling them to enjoy a more private lifestyle away from the Hollywood spotlight. The Clooneys purchased their primary residence, a farm in the south of France, in 2021, which has since become a haven for raising their children away from media scrutiny and celebrity culture.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Clooney family's recent acquisition of French citizenship has made headlines, highlighting their desire for a more grounded life in a tranquil environment. With their farm in Brignoles as their home base, the family aims to provide their twins, Ella and Alexander, with a childhood free from the pressures of fame. The move reflects George Clooney's longstanding concerns about raising children in Los Angeles amid the ever-watchful eyes of paparazzi, as he noted in interviews earlier this year.

Key takeaways

The Clooneys have been granted French citizenship, officially announced in the Journal Officiel.
They purchased a farm in Brignoles, France, in 2021, which serves as their primary residence.
George Clooney has expressed concerns about raising his children in the Hollywood culture.
Mayor Didier Brémond praised the family as "simple and accessible," reflecting their desire for a normal life.
Amal Clooney was naturalised under her maiden name, Amal Alamuddin.

Timeline: how we got here

Since their purchase of the French farm in 2021, the Clooney family has gradually adjusted to life in France. Below is a brief timeline of significant events leading up to their recent citizenship announcement:

2021: The Clooneys buy a farm in Brignoles, France, as their primary residence.
2017: Their twins, Ella and Alexander, are born in London.
October 2023: French citizenship awarded to George and Amal Clooney, as reported in the Journal Officiel.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The announcement of the Clooneys' French citizenship highlights their commitment to living a more private and normal life in France. The move has not only legal implications but also emotional significance, indicating their desire to integrate fully into French society.

What was already established

Prior to this citizenship award, George Clooney had expressed his concerns about the pressures of Hollywood on raising children. The family had already been residing in France since their purchase of the farm, and their commitment to a more grounded lifestyle was evident in previous interviews.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the Clooneys' move to France does not directly impact UK consumers, their life choices may resonate with many British families who seek a quieter lifestyle away from urban pressures. The shift may inspire discussions about celebrity culture and family privacy in the UK.

Businesses and jobs

The Clooneys' presence in southern France could potentially boost local tourism, as their fame may attract visitors interested in the area's charm. Additionally, their involvement in community initiatives may inspire local businesses to engage more with international figures.

Policy and regulation

As the UK and France navigate post-Brexit relationships, the Clooneys' citizenship may raise discussions about expatriates and the rights of foreign nationals in each country. The couple's integration into French society might also influence perceptions of dual citizenship among British expatriates.

Numbers that matter

1: The number of homes the Clooneys own in France, where they have settled with their children.
2: The number of children the couple has, born in London in 2017.
3: The number of countries where the Clooneys have established homes (France, UK, and the USA).
1: The number of times George Clooney has spoken about his struggles with the French language, despite his family's fluency.
2021: The year the Clooneys purchased their farm in France.

Definitions and jargon buster

Journal Officiel: The official publication in France where government decrees and legal notices are published.
Naturalisation: The process by which a foreign citizen becomes a citizen of another country.
Paparazzi: Freelance photographers who take candid photographs of celebrities, often causing privacy concerns.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

The Clooneys are likely to continue adjusting to their new life in France, integrating into local culture and community activities. Observers can expect updates on how they engage with their surroundings.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the Clooneys settle in, they may participate in local events or causes, possibly focusing on human rights and community welfare, which Amal Clooney values highly.

Signals to watch

Involvement in local charities or initiatives by the Clooney family.
Public appearances or interviews reflecting their experiences in France.
Changes in their media engagement or privacy strategies as they adapt to their new environment.

Practical guidance

Do

Consider how celebrity lifestyles influence public perceptions of family life.
Engage with local communities to understand diverse experiences.
Reflect on the balance between privacy and public life for families in the public eye.

Don’t

Don’t assume all celebrities seek the limelight; many value privacy.
Don’t overlook the impact of fame on children and family dynamics.
Don’t ignore the cultural differences in raising children in different countries.

Checklist

Evaluate your own family's needs regarding privacy and public life.
Research community resources available in your area.
Consider how living abroad might benefit your family.
Discuss the implications of celebrity culture on societal values.
Stay informed about changes in local and national policies regarding citizenship.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The Clooneys' integration into French society may face challenges typical for expatriates, including language barriers and cultural adjustments. George Clooney's self-described "horrible" French could impact their social interactions, though his family's fluency suggests a smoother transition for them. Additionally, as public figures, their privacy will be a continual concern, raising questions about their long-term plans in France.

Bottom line

The Clooney family's acquisition of French citizenship signifies a shift towards a more private and normal life away from the Hollywood spotlight. Their decision underscores the importance of family values and personal well-being in an increasingly connected world. As they navigate their new life in France, the Clooneys may serve as a case study in balancing public interest with private desires.

FAQs

Why did the Clooneys choose to become French citizens?

The Clooneys opted for French citizenship to provide a more private and normal upbringing for their children, away from the pressures of Hollywood.

Where do the Clooneys live in France?

The Clooneys reside on a farm in Brignoles, in the south of France, which they purchased in 2021.

How do the Clooneys feel about their new life in France?

George Clooney has expressed admiration for the family’s life in France, highlighting the benefits of raising children in a more grounded environment away from celebrity culture.