George Clooney Reveals Why Raising Kids in France Beats Los Angeles

George Clooney has shared insights into his life in France, emphasizing the advantages of raising his children outside the Hollywood spotlight. The 64-year-old actor, along with his wife, human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, has eight-year-old twins, Ella and Alexander. He believes that living in France offers a better upbringing for them compared to Los Angeles.

Raising Kids in France versus Los Angeles

Clooney discussed his choice to move his family to a farm in France, drawing from his own childhood experiences. He expressed concerns about the influence of Hollywood culture on his children, stating:

• Living in France allows his children to engage in enriching activities beyond screens.
• They experience normal family dinners and participate in chores, promoting self-sufficiency.
• In France, fame is less of a concern compared to Los Angeles.

“They have a much better life,” he remarked, emphasizing how the environment in France differs significantly from that of Hollywood.

Personal Reflections and Parenting Philosophy

Clooney also reflected on his age and the generational gap with his children. He feels fortunate that he is considerably older, reducing the likelihood of direct comparisons between him and his son. This age difference gives him a unique perspective on raising them without the pressure of celebrity comparisons.

He highlighted the importance of practical skills, noting his desire for Ella and Alexander to witness his handyman abilities. He mentioned everyday tasks, such as repairing various household items, as essential lessons for self-sufficiency.

Career and Personal Growth

In addition to his family life, Clooney spoke about his recent Broadway experience, which heightened his apprehensions about aging. He described the stress of performing in a stage adaptation of his film “Good Night, and Good Luck,” stressing that age affects memory and performance.

Currently, Clooney is promoting “Jay Kelly,” a film where he plays a star reflecting on his life and career. He shared that working on this film led him to evaluate his previous highs and lows, particularly regarding health and family life.

Reflections on Substance Use

While discussing his past, Clooney admitted to having experimented with substances during his youth. He mentioned that although he was never addicted to alcohol, he experienced phases of heavy drinking. He also recounted his brief foray into cocaine, describing the misconceptions surrounding it during that time.

This candid reflection on personal history illustrates Clooney’s growth and maturity over the years, reinforcing the importance of family and personal responsibility.