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Clooneys Made French Citizens as Government Cites Ties and Soft-Power Case

French officials say the naturalization reflects residency ties under an exceptional procedure meant for figures who bolster the country's international image.

Overview

  • The 26 December decree in France's Journal Officiel grants nationality to George Clooney, Amal Clooney and their twins, Ella and Alexander.
  • The Foreign Ministry defended the move as an exceptional naturalization proposed by Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, citing the family's contribution to France's image and global relations.
  • Officials said the case followed a rigorous process that included security checks and prefecture interviews, noting the family's permanent residence in Brignoles, Provence.
  • Interior delegate Marie-Pierre Vedrenne voiced concerns about fairness and language standards, after Clooney acknowledged limited French proficiency and ahead of tighter language rules taking effect 1 January 2026.
  • Clooney has pointed to France's strong privacy protections and a desire to raise his children away from Hollywood exposure, while filmmaker Jim Jarmusch says he is pursuing French nationality.