Richard Gere, the iconic actor known for hits like Pretty Woman and An Officer and a Gentleman, has officially sold his Connecticut estate for $10.75 million. This sale marks a significant turning point, as Gere and his wife, Spanish publicist Alejandra Silva, prepare for a new life in Madrid. The 32-acre New Canaan property, once owned by musicians Paul Simon and Edie Brickell, was bought by Gere and Silva in 2022 for $10.8 million. Despite the slight financial loss, Gere sees the move as an adventure and an opportunity to embrace his wife’s Spanish roots.
The Connecticut Estate: A Blend of Elegance and Charm
This estate isn’t just any home; it’s a picturesque, English country-style sanctuary built in 1938. Nestled on a vast 32-acre plot, the property boasts a main house and a guest cottage, with each building offering its own unique charm and character. Here’s a closer look at the property’s standout features:
| Feature | Main House | Guest Cottage |
|---|---|---|
| Bedrooms | 5 | 3 |
| Bathrooms | 9 | 2 |
| Style | English country, built in 1938 | Cozy cottage, previously a recording studio |
| Special Features | Three fireplaces, winding staircase, primary suite with private balcony | Former studio for Paul Simon |
| Additional Amenities | Swimming pool, terraced patios, gardens, trails, pond, waterfall | – |
The main residence, covering approximately 8,800 square feet, embodies the elegance of the 1930s. The red-brick structure offers three fireplaces, large windows overlooking lush landscapes, and beautifully crafted millwork throughout. A grand, winding staircase leads up to the second floor, where each bedroom has its own full bathroom. The master suite, painted in a soft powder blue, includes a private balcony, a wood-burning fireplace, and a cedar-lined closet.
The Decision to Move: A Heartfelt Adventure to Spain
In a candid interview with Vanity Fair Spain, Gere shared insights into his decision to relocate. “For me, going to Madrid is going to be a great adventure because I have never lived full-time outside the United States,” Gere stated. The move is both a personal journey for Gere and an opportunity to support his wife, who hails from Spain. Silva has spent the past six years living in the United States, and Gere expressed a desire to reciprocate, embracing her homeland and culture.
With this transition, Gere and Silva are looking forward to deepening their connections to Silva’s family, friends, and Spanish roots. They were married in 2018 and have two young children, born in 2019 and 2020. Gere spoke with admiration for Silva’s willingness to adapt to his world in the United States, and now he’s ready to return the gesture, describing it as “only fair.”
What Awaits in Madrid: A New Chapter for Gere and Silva
As Gere and Silva prepare to establish roots in Spain’s vibrant capital, they’re embracing a new chapter filled with family, cultural immersion, and the excitement of a fresh environment. While Gere may be known for his Hollywood charm, this move shows his readiness to step into a new role—one where family and new experiences take center stage.
Key Highlights of Gere’s Move:
- Emotional Significance: The move reflects Gere’s desire to give back to Silva after years in the U.S.
- Cultural Embrace: Living in Madrid will allow Gere to immerse himself in Spanish culture.
- A Family Journey: Moving closer to Silva’s family and friends will provide valuable experiences for their young children.
Richard Gere’s Connecticut Estate: A Legacy of Celebrity Ownership
This Connecticut estate holds a history that’s as rich as its architecture. Paul Simon and Edie Brickell originally bought the property for $16.5 million in 2002, transforming the guest cottage into a recording studio where Simon worked on some of his music. This legacy of creativity and star-studded ownership is part of the allure that drew Gere to the property in the first place.
