George Clooney Claps Back at Trump Following Mockery of His French Citizenship

George Clooney and French Citizenship: A Hollywood Affair

George Clooney’s recent acquisition of French citizenship has sparked both celebration and contention—especially from none other than former President Donald Trump. The 64-year-old Oscar-winning actor, along with his lawyer wife Amal Alamuddin Clooney and their two children, officially became French citizens earlier this month. The family has resided in the picturesque southern region of France for years, drawn by its charm and, famously, its favorable privacy laws.

Life in France: Privacy and Family

Clooney has spoken candidly about the advantages of raising his children away from the Hollywood spotlight. In France, he appreciates the strong privacy protections that help shield his family from incessant media scrutiny. According to him, these laws allow for a more peaceful family life, which he has described as “happier” in their French home. Despite his self-confessed struggle with the French language—after 400 days of lessons—Clooney expressed his love for French culture and the country’s way of life.

Trump’s Reactions: Political Jabs

In a rather scathing post on Truth Social, Trump took aim at Clooney, stating, “Good News! George and Amal Clooney, two of the worst political prognosticators of all time, have officially become citizens of France.” He criticized both Clooneys as being overly vocal political advocates and dismissed their movies as mediocre. Trump’s comments were laced with sarcasm, as he pointed to France’s immigration issues, seemingly implying that Clooney’s decision to leave the U.S. was ironic given his political stance.

Clooney’s retort to Trump’s quip was equally sharp. “I totally agree with the current president. We have to make America great again. We’ll start in November,” he remarked, referencing the upcoming midterm elections, adding a sprinkle of humor amid the tension.

Government Responses: Mixed Reactions

Clooney’s citizenship has elicited mixed reactions from French officials as well. While some, including French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez, expressed satisfaction at welcoming the Clooneys, saying “the country is lucky to have them,” others questioned the perceived double standard of granting citizenship to a high-profile individual who speaks little French. Junior Minister Marie-Pierre Vedrenne noted the need to be cautious about the message sent to those who might not enjoy similar privileges.

The French civil code allows for citizenship to be conferred upon distinguished foreigners who influence France’s international standing, which the government cited while confirming the Clooneys’ citizenship after following “a rigorous procedure including security investigations and regulatory naturalization interviews.”

Citizenship Requirement Changes on the Horizon

Interestingly, the Clooneys’ naturalization comes just ahead of new immigration rules set to take effect in January, which will require all applicants to demonstrate a higher level of French proficiency, along with passing a civic knowledge test. This shift reflects a tightening stance in France’s immigration policies, contrasting with the Clooneys’ seemingly smooth transition into citizenship.

Cultural Contribution: More than Movie Stars

The French foreign ministry emphasized that the Clooneys contribute significantly to the international reputation of France, not only through Clooney’s film career but also through Amal’s respected work as a human rights lawyer. Her fluency in French adds to her contributions, enhancing ties with French academic institutions and international organizations.

With notable figures like director Jim Jarmusch expressing interest in citizenship to escape the U.S., it appears Clooney’s transition may just be the beginning of a broader trend among Hollywood elites seeking solace abroad.

As this story continues to unfold, it encapsulates the complex intertwining of celebrity status, politics, and national identity, reminding us that even in the glitzy world of Hollywood, deep-seated issues of belonging and home persist.