Eva Longoria Opens Up About Living Abroad and Her Evolving Perspective on the U.S.

Eva Longoria, celebrated globally for her iconic role in Desperate Housewives, has recently shared her decision to spend the majority of her time outside the United States. In an exclusive and heartfelt interview with Marie Claire, Longoria revealed her new life, which sees her splitting time between Spain and Mexico when she isn’t actively working on projects in Hollywood. While living abroad isn’t an entirely new chapter for the actress, the reasons behind her choice have deepened and shifted over time, shaped by both personal and political factors.

Longoria described the current state of the United States as “a scary place,” reflecting on the changes she’s observed over recent years. Her perspective, she admitted, has been significantly influenced by political and social developments, particularly after Donald Trump’s presidency. “If he keeps his promises, it’s going to be a scary place,” she recalled thinking, highlighting how this period marked a turning point in her outlook. These concerns prompted Longoria to reconsider her future and where she felt most at peace and purposeful.

The actress’s choice to prioritize time away from the U.S. does not mean she’s disconnected from her roots or the issues she cares deeply about. On the contrary, Longoria has long been a voice for change and a beacon of activism. During the 2020 election cycle, she was heavily involved in campaigning for now-Vice President Kamala Harris and worked alongside Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Her efforts were particularly focused on mobilizing underrepresented groups, including women and Latino communities, ensuring their voices were heard during a critical time in the nation’s history.

Even as she creates a life abroad, Longoria emphasizes that her commitment to these causes hasn’t wavered. “I would like to think our fight continues,” she said, underscoring her belief in staying active in the battles for equality, representation, and justice, even from a distance.

A Global Life, Rooted in Heritage

Longoria’s decision to spend more time in Spain and Mexico is not just a political statement but also a personal journey tied to her heritage. As someone with deep Mexican-American roots, she has long been vocal about the importance of embracing her cultural identity. Living in Mexico, for her, is not just about proximity to family or familiar traditions—it’s a way of staying connected to the history and struggles of her ancestors.

In Spain, Longoria has found another layer of connection. The actress has often spoken about her love for the country’s rich culture, cuisine, and history. For her, Spain offers a sense of balance and a slower pace of life compared to the frenetic energy of Hollywood and the U.S. political landscape. It’s a space where she can recharge and focus on creative endeavors without the constant distractions and pressures that come with being a high-profile figure in America.

Despite these relocations, Longoria remains a proud American who cares deeply about the future of her home country. Her decision to live abroad more frequently doesn’t stem from a desire to escape but rather from a need to recalibrate. “It’s not about leaving behind the United States,” she clarified. “It’s about finding the right spaces to nurture myself, my family, and my work while still being engaged in the conversations that matter most.”

Reflections on a Divided Nation

Longoria’s candid comments about the United States as “a scary place” stem from her observations of growing division, political turmoil, and societal challenges. The years following Trump’s presidency have been a time of reckoning for many, and Longoria is no exception. The actress has often used her platform to speak out against policies and rhetoric that she believes are harmful, especially those that marginalize vulnerable communities.

Her concerns are not just political but deeply personal. Longoria has frequently highlighted how political decisions directly impact the lives of people she cares about, particularly within the Latino community. From immigration policies to voting rights, she has witnessed firsthand the struggles that many Americans face daily. “It’s hard to watch the country you love become a place where so many feel unsafe or unheard,” she said.

Her activism during the 2020 election cycle was a testament to her dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable America. Longoria didn’t just advocate for change from the sidelines; she was on the front lines, working tirelessly to encourage voter turnout and amplify the voices of those often left out of the political conversation.

Balancing Activism and Personal Growth

Living abroad has given Longoria the opportunity to balance her passion for activism with her need for personal growth and reflection. She admits that stepping away from the intensity of the U.S. political landscape has allowed her to gain new perspectives and approach her advocacy work with renewed energy. “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” she explained. “Sometimes, you need to step back, recharge, and then return to the fight stronger.”

Her time in Spain and Mexico also aligns with her roles as a mother and a creative professional. Longoria has often spoken about how becoming a parent has reshaped her priorities, emphasizing the importance of creating a nurturing environment for her family. In Spain and Mexico, she’s found spaces where she can focus on her family life without the constant demands of Hollywood or the divisive atmosphere in the U.S.

Creatively, Longoria continues to thrive. Living in Europe and Latin America has exposed her to diverse stories and perspectives that she hopes to bring to her future projects. As an actress, director, and producer, Longoria has consistently championed representation in the entertainment industry, and her global experiences only deepen her commitment to this mission.

The Road Ahead

Despite her physical distance from the U.S., Longoria remains deeply connected to the issues facing the country. She believes that her work as an activist and advocate is far from over and plans to continue using her platform to inspire change. Whether through her Hollywood projects, her philanthropic efforts, or her political advocacy, Longoria is determined to make a difference.

Her decision to spend more time abroad is not an abandonment of her American identity but a redefinition of what it means to be engaged and active in today’s interconnected world. “The fight for a better future doesn’t have to be tied to one place,” she said. “We all have a role to play, no matter where we are.”

For Longoria, the path forward is about finding harmony between her personal life, her creative passions, and her commitment to social justice. By living and working in spaces that inspire and ground her, she hopes to continue making an impact—both in the U.S. and beyond.

As Longoria looks to the future, one thing is clear: her journey is far from over. Whether she’s in Spain, Mexico, or back in Hollywood, her voice remains a powerful force for change, proving that distance is no barrier to making a difference.