### George and Amal Clooney's French Citizenship: A New Chapter Amid Controversy George and Amal Clooney have officially become French citizens, a significant milestone for the couple who have made France their primary residence since 2021. The French government granted them citizenship, citing their contributions to the country's cultural influence and international outreach. This decision has sparked a mix of celebration and controversy, particularly in light of criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has publicly mocked the couple's move. The Clooneys' journey to citizenship reflects their desire for privacy and a quieter family life away from the scrutiny of Hollywood. ### Structure of the Response 1. **Background of the Clooneys' Move to France** - The Clooneys purchased an estate in France in 2021, which they have since called their primary residence [https://apnews.com/article/george-clooney-amal-clooney-france-hollywood-a902ba74c2d1bdbdc842baea38958041]. - Their decision to seek French citizenship aligns with their concerns about raising children in the public eye in Hollywood [https://independent.ie/style/celebrity/celebrity-news/george-clooney-and-his-family-granted-french-citizenship-after-criticising-scrutiny-in-hollywood/a499797149.html]. 2. **French Government's Justification for Citizenship** - The French government defended its decision, stating that the Clooneys contribute significantly to France's cultural outreach and international influence [https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/lifestyle/20260102/french-government-defends-granting-citizenship-george-and-amal-clooney]. - This justification has been met with skepticism, with some critics alleging that the Clooneys received special treatment [https://huffpost.com/entry/george-clooney-french-citizenship_n_6958134ee4b09930096707ab]. 3. **Donald Trump's Reaction** - Donald Trump criticized the Clooneys' move, suggesting it was a sign of their discontent with the U.S. [https://usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2026/01/02/george-clooney-donald-trump-french-citizenship/87996233007]. - George Clooney responded with a cheeky remark, indicating that he was unfazed by Trump's comments [https://www.nme.com/news/film/george-clooney-hits-back-at-donald-trump-criticism-over-french-citizenship-3920671]. 4. **Clooneys' Celebration of Citizenship** - The Clooneys celebrated their new citizenship with their twins, marking a joyful family moment [https://www.mondialnews.com/2026/01/01/george-clooney-amal-and-their-twins-joyfully-embrace-new-french-citizenship-celebration]. - Their move is seen as part of a broader trend among Hollywood stars seeking privacy and a more tranquil lifestyle abroad [https://mandatory.com/news/1709446-amal-clooney-george-clooney-french-us-quit]. ### Summary of Findings **Key Conclusions:** 1. **Clooneys' Citizenship**: George and Amal Clooney have been granted French citizenship, reflecting their commitment to a quieter family life in France. 2. **Government Defense**: The French government supports this decision, emphasizing the couple's contributions to cultural outreach, despite claims of favoritism. 3. **Public Controversy**: The citizenship has ignited a public feud with Donald Trump, who criticized their move, prompting a witty response from Clooney. 4. **Cultural Shift**: Their decision is part of a growing trend among celebrities seeking refuge from the intense scrutiny of Hollywood. This situation encapsulates the intersection of celebrity culture, national identity, and the quest for privacy in an increasingly public world. The Clooneys' journey to French citizenship is not just a personal milestone but also a reflection of broader societal themes regarding fame and family life.