James Cameron Says He Has Left U.S., Cites New Zealand Response
James Cameron said he moved permanently to New Zealand, citing its 98% COVID-19 vaccination rate and virus-elimination efforts.
Overview
Film director James Cameron said he has permanently relocated from the United States to New Zealand and that his New Zealand citizenship is "imminent," in an interview with Graham Bensinger.
Cameron said New Zealand reached a 98% COVID-19 vaccination rate and "eliminated the virus twice," and he contrasted that with a 62% U.S. vaccination rate, saying the U.S. response is "going the wrong direction," in a separate sit-down with New Zealand media.
Some critics disputed Cameron's portrayal of New Zealand's pandemic approach, citing strict lockdowns and later infection surges, while supporters said his move highlights public health differences, according to reports.
He and his wife, Suzy Amis Cameron, purchased a 12,000-acre farm in New Zealand in 2011, and records show the director's film "Avatar" grossed $2.74 billion worldwide at the box office.
Cameron said he moved "for his sanity" and that he plans to remain in New Zealand, and he told Bensinger that his New Zealand citizenship application is "imminent."
Analysis
Analysis unavailable for this viewpoint.
Sources (3)
FAQ
James Cameron was formally granted New Zealand citizenship on August 13, 2025.
Cameron cited New Zealand's 98% COVID-19 vaccination rate, elimination of the virus twice, belief in science, sanity of the people, and contrast to the polarized U.S. political climate under Trump for his move.
Cameron and his wife purchased a 12,000-acre (or 1,000-hectare) farm in South Wairarapa, New Zealand, in 2011.
Cameron applied for U.S. citizenship in 2004 but withdrew it after George W. Bush's election; he has described the U.S. under Trump as 'like watching a car crash over and over.'
Yes, Rosie O'Donnell moved to Ireland and Ellen DeGeneres moved to England following the 2024 U.S. election results.
History
This story does not have any previous versions.