Emmy-winning actor Joe Pantoliano, best known for his chilling portrayal of Ralph Cifaretto in HBO’s *The Sopranos*, has revealed a surprising plan: he’s looking to leave the United States. His reason? Deep unease with the current political climate under President Donald Trump. Pantoliano, 73, shared his feelings with Page Six, stating his discomfort is so profound that it’s impacting his ability to focus on work. He expressed a desire to simply ‘run for the hills.’
This isn’t just idle talk; Pantoliano and his wife, Nancy Sheppard, recently returned from a trip to Portugal, where they explored the possibility of relocating. They were particularly impressed by the country, but recent events have added another layer to their decision. A massive cyberattack caused a widespread power outage across Spain and Portugal, raising concerns about infrastructure vulnerabilities and prompting Pantoliano to consider the implications for the future.
The actor took to Instagram to further elaborate on his plans, stating that he and his wife have actively investigated obtaining visas to allow them to live in Portugal, at least part-time. He cited the country’s walkability and overall appeal as factors in his decision. He also linked the recent power outage to broader concerns about the state of the world, expressing confusion and a desire to understand the underlying causes.
Pantoliano isn’t alone in his decision to consider leaving the US. Other celebrities, including Rosie O’Donnell and Ellen DeGeneres, have also relocated due to concerns about the Trump administration. O’Donnell, who moved to Ireland, openly discussed her long-standing feud with Trump as a motivating factor. DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi relocated to the UK after Trump’s 2024 election victory.
While Pantoliano’s decision is personal, it highlights a growing sentiment among some Americans who find themselves increasingly uncomfortable with the nation’s political trajectory. His decision serves as a stark reminder of the impact political events can have on the lives and choices of individuals, even those in the public eye.
