George Clooney Took a Stand Against Hollywood's Toxic Upbringing for Kids
George Clooney has always been candid about his choices, but his recent interview with Esquire magazine revealed a deeply personal decision: he moved his family away from Hollywood to protect his children from the industry's often harsh and superficial environment. After the birth of his twins, Clooney and his family chose the peaceful life of a French farm over the glitz and chaos of Los Angeles, a move he described as crucial for giving his kids a "fair shake" at a normal life.
"We are very fortunate. We live on a farm in France," Clooney shared. "A big part of my childhood was spent on a farm, and I didn't exactly enjoy it back then. But now, my kids? It's completely different. They aren't glued to iPads all day. They share meals with adults and even clear their own dishes. Their childhood is far richer and healthier because of this environment."
Clooney explained his concerns about raising children amid Hollywood's celebrity-focused culture. "I was genuinely worried about bringing up our kids in L.A., in the heart of Hollywood's fame-obsessed world," he said. "I felt like they would never have an equal chance at life. Here in France, fame isn't a priority. I don't want them constantly worrying about paparazzi or being measured against other famous children."
This year, Clooney has been particularly visible in the media, partly due to his recent Broadway performance in "Good Night and Good Luck," which earned him a Tony nomination, and his Oscar-eligible lead role in Noah Baumbach’s film "Jay Kelly," which premiered at the Venice Film Festival. In the film, Clooney plays a celebrated actor in his 60s confronting personal and professional reflections at an Italian film festival tribute. Laura Dern portrays his dedicated publicist, while Adam Sandler takes on the role of his manager. One of the central conflicts Clooney’s character faces is criticism for always "playing himself" in movies.
Addressing this critique, Clooney told Vanity Fair, "Do people say I only play myself? Honestly, I couldn't care less. There aren't many actors my age who get to swing between broad comedies like 'O Brother, Where Art Thou?' and serious dramas like 'Michael Clayton' or 'Syriana.' If that means I'm always playing myself, so be it. ... And have you ever tried playing yourself? It's not as simple as it sounds."
And here's the part most people miss: Clooney’s choices aren’t just about fame—they reflect a deliberate attempt to give his children a grounded upbringing, away from the distortions of Hollywood culture. Some might argue that distancing his family from L.A. is extreme, while others may see it as a wise, forward-thinking move. What do you think? Is Clooney right to shield his children from celebrity life, or is he missing out on a different kind of education?
You can read the full interview in Esquire to get all the insights directly from Clooney himself.
