James Cameron Chooses New Zealand Over US, Citing 'Sanity' as Key Reason
In a candid interview that has sparked international discussion, acclaimed filmmaker James Cameron has revealed his permanent relocation from the United States to New Zealand, emphasizing that his decision was driven by a quest for 'sanity' rather than the country's renowned natural beauty. The Oscar-winning director of 'Avatar' and 'Titanic' made these remarks during a recent episode of In Depth with Graham Bensinger, drawing widespread media attention amid ongoing debates about public health, politics, and societal unity in the US.
Pandemic Response as a Turning Point
Cameron, 71, pointed to New Zealand's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic as a primary factor behind his move. He highlighted the country's impressive achievements, stating, 'After the pandemic hit... [New Zealand] had eliminated the virus completely. They actually eliminated the virus twice.' The director contrasted this with the US situation, noting New Zealand's 98 per cent vaccination rate and collective adherence to scientific guidance, which he found lacking in America.
'This is why I love New Zealand. People there are, for the most part, sane as opposed to the United States, where you had a 62 per cent vaccination rate, and that's going down — going the wrong direction,' Cameron asserted. His critique extended beyond public health, touching on broader societal issues in the US.
Critique of US Political and Social Climate
The filmmaker did not mince words when discussing the current state of affairs in the United States. He expressed concern over growing political polarization and a distrust of science, posing a rhetorical question: 'Where would you rather live? A place that actually believes in science and is sane and where people can work together cohesively to a common goal, or a place where everybody's at each other's throats... turning its back on science and basically would be in utter disarray if another pandemic appears.'
When interviewer Graham Bensinger suggested that the US remains 'a fantastic place to live,' Cameron responded with scepticism. He later clarified that while New Zealand's landscapes are stunning, his choice was not about scenery. 'I'm not there for scenery, I'm there for the sanity,' he emphasized, underscoring his prioritization of societal stability over aesthetic appeal.
Background of Cameron's Move to New Zealand
Cameron's connection to New Zealand spans decades. He first visited the country in 1994, and in 2011, he and his wife, actress Suzy Amis Cameron, purchased a farm there. For years, the family split their time between the US and New Zealand, but the pandemic solidified their decision to make it their full-time home. They officially moved during 2020, and Cameron's New Zealand citizenship was granted in August 2025.
This relocation is not an isolated incident in Cameron's critique of the US. In previous interviews, he has criticized political developments, particularly under President Donald Trump, describing Trump's leadership as indicative of a broader shift away from core American values. Cameron suggested that without upholding principles like respect and unity, the US risked becoming a 'hollow idea.'
Broader Context and Reactions
Cameron's frank comments resonate with sentiments expressed by other artists and public figures who have chosen to live abroad. High-profile celebrities such as Ellen DeGeneres, Rosie O'Donnell, and George Clooney have also relocated from the US in recent years, often citing political and social concerns as motivating factors. This trend highlights a growing discourse on quality of life and societal values.
However, critics of Cameron's stance have pointed out that his ability to move abroad and obtain citizenship in another country is a privilege not available to everyone, especially those without financial means. Despite this, his remarks have reignited discussions on public trust, political division, and how societies handle collective challenges like pandemics and climate change.
New Zealand's Pandemic Management and Cameron's Ongoing Work
New Zealand has received widespread praise for its COVID-19 response, particularly in the early stages of the pandemic. The government implemented strict border controls and public health measures, resulting in relatively low case numbers compared to many other nations. A collaborative approach involving government, health officials, and the public helped build confidence in science-led policies, which Cameron finds appealing.
As Cameron continues to live and work in New Zealand, he remains deeply involved in the production of the Avatar franchise. The sequels have been filmed primarily in New Zealand, bringing significant creative and economic activity to the region. This further cements his ties to his adopted home, blending professional endeavors with personal convictions.
In summary, James Cameron's move to New Zealand reflects a broader commentary on societal values and governance. His emphasis on sanity over scenery underscores a desire for a cohesive, science-respecting community, setting the stage for ongoing debates about national identity and global citizenship.
