Kirk Cameron Leaves California Behind for a Fresh Start in Tennessee

Actor Kirk Cameron, best known for his role in Growing Pains, has officially packed up and left California.

In a recent interview, the father of six shared that he has relocated to Tennessee, describing the decision as both personal and deeply purposeful.

Cameron explained that the move was motivated by his search for a faith-driven, family-centered community and growing concern about California’s political and cultural direction. “California has been moving in a particular direction for a long time,” he told the Washington Examiner.

“There’s a lot of division and unrest, and I wanted to be somewhere that reflects my values — God, family, and country.”

The actor added that Tennessee felt like the right choice for multiple reasons.

Not only do three of his adult children already live there, but he’s also drawn to what he calls the state’s “healthy freedom mindset.”

“If everything hits the fan and there’s serious economic trouble or more division, I want to be around people who prioritize faith and family,” Cameron said. “It’s a really good place to be.”

He also admitted he’s not the only Californian to make the move. “It’s amazing how many people from California are here,” he laughed.

“When I meet them in the grocery store, I tell them, ‘Don’t California our Tennessee.’”

The actor’s relocation echoes the choice of his sister, Candace Cameron Bure, who has also spoken publicly about leaving California for reasons related to family safety and a simpler lifestyle.

Now settled in Tennessee, Cameron says he’s found what he was looking for — a place with strong values, welcoming neighbors, and a slower pace of life. He even joked that one of his favorite perks of the move is discovering “good, wholesome values and good whiskey.”

As more celebrities and families relocate from California to other states, Cameron’s move highlights a broader trend of people seeking communities that align with their faith, freedom, and sense of belonging. For him, Tennessee isn’t just a new address; it’s a return to what matters most.

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