Actor and conservative advocate Kirk Cameron is leaving behind the Golden State to settle in Tennessee, joining a growing exodus of Hollywood stars fleeing California.
According to Cameron, he began seriously contemplating a move three to five years ago, during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns. In 2021, he asked fans for suggestions on where to move, citing California’s increasing divide and the desire for a place with a healthy sense of freedom.
The actor stated that he’s found Tennessee to have “a lot of California refugees,” including creators from Hollywood who are building a thriving entertainment community. Since 2014, Tennessee has seen an 82% surge in motion picture and video production jobs, earning the state the nickname “Hollywood of the South.”
Cameron’s decision mirrors that of other Hollywood stars, such as Mark Wahlberg and Sylvester Stallone, who have also left California in pursuit of better quality of life and economic conditions. Fitness guru Jillian Michaels recently relocated to Florida due to the state’s lower crime rates and safer environment.
The actor is quick to praise Tennessee’s welcoming atmosphere, mentioning the state’s “good wholesome values” and “good whiskey.” His new home has also inspired his latest children’s television show, Adventures with Iggy and Mr. Kirk, a modernized and animated version of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.
As a renowned advocate for wholesome family values, Cameron is eager to promote his new show, which features himself and Iggy the Iguana. He also hopes to set a Guinness World Record by hosting a nationwide story hour event, rivalling the record set by LGBT activists during Pride Month.
Cameron’s passion for promoting wholesome children’s books and values has led him to release several faith-based children’s books with partner BRAVE Books. His upcoming August event, “See You at the Library,” aims to bring together families and book lovers across the country to set a new record.
With his move, Cameron is leaving behind the chaotic California lifestyle and embracing the comforts of small-town Tennessee. As a leading advocate for conservative family values, his decision serves as a shining example of the growing trend towards red states and a rejection of big-city politics.
