LOS ANGELES — Mark Hamill, the iconic Star Wars actor known for portraying Luke Skywalker, revealed he contemplated leaving the United States following President Donald Trump’s re-election in November 2024. In an interview with Variety published on August 20, 2025, the 73-year-old actor shared that he discussed relocating to London or Ireland with his wife, Marilou York, but ultimately decided to stay after her persuasive reasoning.
“She’s very clever,” Hamill told Variety, recounting how York took a week to respond before saying, “I’m surprised you would allow him to force you out of your own country.” That perspective shifted Hamill’s stance, leading him to declare, “I’m not leaving.” A vocal critic of Trump, Hamill has frequently used platforms like Bluesky to express his disapproval, including a controversial post likening Trump’s election to Pearl Harbor, which sparked backlash on X for its historical comparison.
Hamill’s reaction reflects a broader sentiment among some celebrities, with figures like Rosie O’Donnell and Ellen DeGeneres citing Trump’s victory as a reason for their own moves abroad. The actor, who endorsed Kamala Harris in the 2024 campaign, described coping with the political climate by viewing it as a “thick, sprawling political novel.” He expressed dismay at what he called Trump’s “bullying” and “incompetence,” adding, “Our status in the world has been crippled and that will reverberate for decades,” per Variety.
Key points from Hamill’s comments include:
- Emotional Response: Considered expatriation due to dismay over Trump’s win.
- Wife’s Influence: York’s argument anchored Hamill’s decision to stay.
- Ongoing Criticism: Hamill continues to oppose Trump’s policies online.
Posts on X, like those from @OliLondonTV, noted Hamill’s near-exit, while others criticized his outspokenness. Despite the divide, Hamill remains committed to voicing his views, blending his Hollywood legacy with political activism.
Source: Variety
