Ellen DeGeneres Says She Moved to the UK Because of Donald Trump

Ellen DeGeneres Reveals Decision to Make U.K. Permanent Home After Trump’s Re-Election

Ellen DeGeneres recently made headlines when she disclosed her decision to make the United Kingdom her permanent home following Donald Trump’s re-election as U.S. President. The popular chat show host, alongside her wife Portia de Rossi, decided to settle in the U.K. the day after Trump secured his second term in office in November 2024. DeGeneres made her first public appearance since leaving the U.S. last year, sharing her reasons for choosing to relocate during an on-stage conversation with U.K. host Richard Bacon.

“We got here the day before the election and woke up to lots of texts from our friends with crying emojis, and I was like, ‘He got in’,” DeGeneres recounted. “And we’re like, ‘We’re staying here.'” Despite the circumstances that led to their decision, DeGeneres expressed her admiration for the U.K., noting that life in the country is “just better” compared to the U.S.

Describing the U.K. as “absolutely beautiful,” DeGeneres highlighted the charm of the villages, towns, and architecture, emphasizing a simpler way of life that she and de Rossi have come to appreciate. She praised the cleanliness of the environment, the treatment of animals, and the politeness of the people, stating, “Everything here is just better.” DeGeneres even hinted at the possibility of getting married again in the U.K. in response to moves in the U.S. to challenge same-sex marriage rights.

During the conversation with Bacon, DeGeneres also addressed the controversy surrounding allegations of a toxic workplace culture on her U.S. talk show and the portrayal of her as “mean” in certain press circles. She acknowledged her direct and blunt communication style, refuting claims of malice by stating, “I’m an empathetic, compassionate person.” Despite the challenges she faced, DeGeneres admitted that the situation was “certainly an unpleasant way to end” her talk show.

As DeGeneres navigates this new chapter in her life in the U.K., she continues to stand by her values and beliefs while embracing the opportunities that come with starting fresh in a different environment. Her decision to make the U.K. her permanent home reflects a personal journey of growth, resilience, and a commitment to living authentically.