Full Breakdown
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi's Shift from the UK to California
12/2/2025, 6:12:53 PM
Background on the Move to the UK
Ellen DeGeneres and her wife, Portia de Rossi, relocated to the Cotswolds in the UK in November 2024, shortly after Donald Trump's re-election as President of the United States. DeGeneres cited the political climate in the U.S. as a significant factor in their decision to move, expressing concerns about the future of LGBTQ rights under Trump's administration. Initially, the couple intended to stay in the UK for the duration of Trump's presidency, believing that life in the UK was "just better."
Recent Developments: Flooding and Property Sale
The couple purchased Kitesbridge Farm, a seven-bedroom estate in Asthall, Oxfordshire, for £15 million. However, the property has faced challenges, including flooding caused by Storm Bert and later Storm Claudia, which left the estate surrounded by water. In July 2025, they listed the property for £22.5 million, a 50% increase from their purchase price, but it remains unsold. Following these events, DeGeneres and de Rossi moved to a new £25 million property in the Cotswolds.
Change of Heart: Plans to Return to California
Recent reports indicate that DeGeneres and de Rossi are reconsidering their commitment to the UK. Sources have revealed that the couple plans to return to California for the holidays and potentially for a longer stay. They have expressed feelings of missing their friends and the warmer climate of California, with de Rossi also wanting to resume her acting career.
Official Statements & Responses
DeGeneres has previously articulated her reasons for moving to the UK, stating, "We got here the day before the election... and we're like, 'We're staying here.'" However, insiders now report that she has changed her stance, with one source noting, "Ellen was adamant that she and Portia were going to stay in the UK... but evidently she's changed her mind somewhat."
Criticism & Opposition
The couple's shift back to California has drawn mixed reactions. Critics have pointed out the apparent hypocrisy in their decision to leave the UK after initially fleeing the U.S. due to Trump's presidency. Some commentators have labeled the couple's return as a sign of privilege, questioning the sincerity of their earlier political convictions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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',” — Ellen DeGeneres
- “Ellen was adamant that she and Portia were going to stay in the UK while Trump was in the White House, but evidently she's changed her mind somewhat.” — Source close to DeGeneres
- “They will be here for the holidays and longer by the sound of it.” — Source close to DeGeneres
What's Next
As DeGeneres and de Rossi prepare for their return to California, it remains unclear whether this move will be permanent or if they will continue to split their time between the two countries. Their experiences in the UK, particularly with flooding and the challenges of rural life, may influence their future decisions regarding residency.
