Ellen DeGeneres, the 67-year-old former talk show host, and her wife, Portia de Rossi, 52, have encountered controversy surrounding renovations at their £15 million Cotswolds farmhouse. The couple relocated to the UK in November 2024 following the re-election of President Trump, a move DeGeneres reportedly attributed to her feeling unwelcome in the US entertainment industry. Their idyllic countryside retreat, however, has become the center of a dispute with local residents and parish council members. Concerns have arisen regarding a single-story extension to the property, which allegedly constitutes a “technical breach” of planning regulations. Further, the construction has sparked fears of increased flood risk due to the potential for debris accumulation against a newly erected fence.
The property’s proximity to Roman ruins has also drawn scrutiny, with parish council minutes reflecting residents’ concerns. While a spokesperson for DeGeneres has asserted that the ruins are located a significant distance from the property and that all work has been completed to a high standard, the issue remains a point of contention. The council has emphasized the property owner’s responsibility to report any unearthed historical artifacts, underscoring the sensitivity of the location and the need for careful consideration during construction projects.
DeGeneres’s move to the UK follows a tumultuous period in her career, marked by allegations of fostering a toxic work environment on her former talk show. She has since publicly addressed these accusations, humorously referencing being “kicked out of show business” in her recent Netflix comedy special, “For Your Approval.” This special has been widely interpreted as a farewell to the entertainment industry, solidifying her transition to a quieter life in the English countryside.
The Cotswolds, a highly sought-after area renowned for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages, has become a magnet for celebrities seeking refuge from the pressures of city life. DeGeneres and de Rossi join a growing list of high-profile residents, including Jeremy Clarkson, Kate Moss, Amanda Holden, and the Beckhams. Even Taylor Swift temporarily resided in the area during her recent Eras Tour. The region’s blend of tranquility and exclusivity provides an appealing escape for those seeking a more private and relaxed lifestyle.
DeGeneres’s presence in the Cotswolds has not gone unnoticed by locals, with reports of sightings at Jeremy Clarkson’s pub adding to the buzz surrounding her relocation. While the couple seeks to establish their new life in the UK, the ongoing fence dispute serves as a reminder of the challenges of adapting to a new environment and navigating local regulations.
The couple’s decision to leave the US and settle in the UK reflects a broader trend among celebrities seeking a reprieve from the intense scrutiny of the public eye. While the Cotswolds offers a peaceful haven, their experience highlights the complexities of balancing privacy with community concerns, particularly when undertaking significant property renovations. The ongoing dialogue between DeGeneres, her representatives, and the local council will likely shape the future of their Cotswolds residence and their integration into the community.
