Richard Gere, the celebrated Hollywood actor known for his iconic roles in movies like Pretty Woman, Chicago, and An Officer and a Gentleman, has recently sold his picturesque Connecticut estate in New Canaan for $10.75 million. This beautiful property, spanning over 31.8 acres, was purchased by Gere in 2022 from the legendary musician Paul Simon and his wife, Edie Brickell, for $10.8 million. Although Gere sold the estate for a slight loss, the transaction reflects his current life shift, as he and his wife, Alejandra Silva, plan to relocate to Spain to be closer to her roots and raise their children in a bilingual environment.
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A Storied Property with a Rich History
The New Canaan estate, originally owned by Paul Simon and Edie Brickell, is steeped in history and character. The property was listed by the couple in 2019 for $13.9 million, yet after a series of price adjustments, Gere purchased it in 2022 for $10.8 million. The estate includes a five-bedroom main house where Simon recorded several of his albums, a testament to its deep artistic legacy. The house is surrounded by a serene natural setting with sprawling lawns, gardens, and a pond complete with a cascading waterfall.
In addition to the main house, the property features a three-bedroom guest cottage, perfect for hosting visitors, and extensive terraced patios that overlook the lush landscapes. The estate also has a luxurious pool and winding trails that immerse one in the natural beauty of Connecticut’s countryside. This home provided Simon with creative inspiration, and it now carries forward memories of both Gere’s and Simon’s families.
Thoughtful Design and Natural Charm
The estate’s architectural design blends a classic New England charm with luxurious amenities. The main residence, featuring five spacious bedrooms and seven bathrooms, is designed to offer both comfort and a sophisticated appeal. The interiors are bathed in natural light and have a timeless quality, thanks to extensive use of wood and stone. The large windows offer breathtaking views of the surrounding woodlands, allowing residents to feel connected to nature.
Gere, who is known for his love of tranquility and spirituality, likely found solace in this serene environment. The estate’s landscaping enhances this sense of calm with its meticulous gardens and peaceful water features. The ponds, landscaped with native plants, add to the secluded feel, making this estate a true retreat from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood.
A Move Driven by Family and Culture
Richard Gere’s decision to sell his Connecticut estate and move to Spain with his family is deeply personal. In interviews, Gere has expressed his admiration for Spain’s rich cultural heritage and the opportunity it provides for his children to experience a bilingual and bicultural upbringing. His wife, Alejandra Silva, is a Spanish publicist and activist, and their move to Spain brings her closer to her family and cultural roots. Gere and Silva have two young children together, and Gere also has an older son from his previous marriage.
The couple’s move to Spain is motivated by both family and lifestyle considerations. Gere has voiced concerns about issues in the United States, including gun violence and the healthcare system, which he believes are better addressed in Europe. His choice to relocate is also influenced by his desire to raise his children in a peaceful and secure environment. Spain offers the family a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle, which aligns with Gere’s values.
A Legacy of Real Estate Endeavors
Gere’s New Canaan estate is just one of many properties he has owned over the years. Known for his taste in high-end real estate, Gere has bought and sold several luxurious properties across the United States. Prior to this Connecticut property, he sold his sprawling Pound Ridge, New York, country home in 2022. That property, a massive estate with a storied history of its own, was sold for around $28 million after Gere had listed it for as much as $65 million several years earlier.
The actor’s passion for real estate reflects his appreciation for beautiful, secluded properties that offer a retreat from the public eye. In addition to his homes in the United States, Gere has previously owned estates in the Hamptons and Malibu, places known for their luxurious and private lifestyles. However, his relocation to Spain marks a new chapter, one that seems to signify a shift from his Hollywood life toward a quieter, family-oriented existence.
Future Plans in Spain
In Spain, Gere and Silva are expected to settle in the picturesque region of Madrid, known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture. Silva’s family has deep roots in Spain, making it an ideal location for the couple. Spain’s appealing blend of historical heritage, Mediterranean lifestyle, and modern amenities makes it a fitting choice for the couple as they look forward to a slower, more meaningful lifestyle.
For Gere, this move is not just about relocating but about reconnecting with values that have always been important to him. His commitment to activism, particularly in human rights and environmental issues, may find new avenues in Spain, where he is likely to continue his philanthropic work. Gere and Silva have also been involved in several charitable initiatives together, and their move to Europe may allow them to expand these efforts.
