Kurt Russell has revealed that many people in the entertainment industry warned him he could damage his career when he decided to leave Los Angeles and build a life in Colorado decades ago. In a recent interview with People, the actor said colleagues reacted to his plans with doubt, telling him, “Well, that’s goodbye. That’s it.” Russell said his answer was simple: “Well, we’ll see.”
Russell stressed that his move was never about turning his back on Hollywood. Instead, he said it was about choosing the lifestyle he wanted. He explained that Colorado gives him the freedom to do the things he enjoys every day, especially outdoor activities and the mountain setting he has always loved. For Russell, the decision was rooted in personal fulfillment rather than career frustration.
More than 40 years ago, Russell and Goldie Hawn built a ranch in Old Snowmass, Colorado, and the property became the center of their family life. Russell said ranching had long been a goal of his, and the move allowed him to finally embrace that way of living. He described the Old Snowmass community as one where people choose to be there, which creates a different atmosphere from Los Angeles. He also said he is very happy that he and Hawn were able to raise their blended family in that environment.
Russell added that one of the best parts of life in Colorado is that Hawn enjoys it just as much as he does. Their son Wyatt Russell also lives in the state with his wife, Meredith Hagner, and their children, making Colorado an important gathering place for the family. The actor made clear that the move helped shape a lifestyle centered on family, privacy and the outdoors.
Hawn has also spoken publicly about why the couple prefers living away from Los Angeles. On Kelly Ripa’s SiriusXM podcast, she recalled a burglary at their L.A. home, saying she returned after being away for just over two hours and discovered that intruders had entered through a balcony and stolen valuable items. She later said that another attempted break-in occurred while she was home alone. After those experiences, she and Russell discussed where they would feel safest and concluded that Palm Desert would be a better fit.
Russell, however, has repeatedly said his decision was not an act of rejection toward Los Angeles. He explained that he does not dislike the city, but simply prefers a different way of life. He contrasted Old Snowmass with Los Angeles by noting that everyone in the Colorado community lives there by choice. Russell also linked his love of the outdoors to his childhood in Maine, saying that once someone is exposed to that kind of life, it can always feel like home.
