Upon the election victory of President Trump in November 2024, "Star Wars" icon Mark Hamill faced a personal crossroads. Revealing to Variety, Hamill shared a moment of decision-making with his wife, Marilou York, about potentially leaving the United States. The actor, known for portraying Luke Skywalker, gave York a choice between two European countries, the United Kingdom or Ireland, as a new domicile to avoid living under Trump's presidency.
This dramatic contemplation came as an immediate reaction to Trump's political comeback after defeating Kamala Harris. York took a week to deliberate, ultimately responding with a pointed remark that reshaped Hamill's view on emigration: "I'm surprised you would allow him to force you out of your own country." Her words reignited Hamill's patriotic spirit, leading him to declare his resolve to stay, "That son of a b*tch, I'm not leaving."
Despite choosing to remain, Hamill's opposition to Trump's policies has grown increasingly vocal. He describes employing mental coping strategies to handle the current political climate, likening it to a "thick, sprawling political novel." The actor finds dark humor in the situation yet expresses grave concern about the potential long-term effects on America's global reputation.
Hamill's biting critique extends to certain policy suggestions from the Trump administration, highlighting the absurdity he perceives in ideas like making Canada the 51st state or renaming the Gulf of Mexico. He views these proposals with a mixture of amusement and dismay, reflecting on the seemingly farcical nature of today's political landscape.
The Hamills are not alone in their deliberation of leaving the U.S. following Trump's reelection. Prominent Hollywood figures, like comedian Rosie O'Donnell, now reside in Ireland, while Ellen DeGeneres and spouse Portia de Rossi have relocated to the UK. O'Donnell, in particular, has expressed safety concerns that deter her from considering a return to the U.S. during the Trump administration.
The phenomenon of celebrity relocation highlights the depth of polarization within the United States, with some opting to exit rather than endure the current administration's tenure. This Hollywood exodus underscores the divisive nature of contemporary American politics, a theme that has become a recurring narrative since the 2016 election cycle and continues to shape public discourse and personal decisions.
