Caitlin O’Connor, a well-known actress and TV host, has opened up about the positive impact of her recent move back to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with her fiancé, Joe Manganiello. The relocation marks a significant shift for the couple, who left behind the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles in search of a more tranquil lifestyle.
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE in December, O’Connor shared details about their new home in the suburb of Mount Lebanon, where she expressed excitement about returning to their roots. “Joe and I are both from the Pittsburgh area. I am from Uniontown, and he is from Mount Lebanon; our high schools even faced each other in sports,” she explained. The decision to move was driven by a desire for personal safety and a slowing pace of life, as O’Connor had previously highlighted concerns over increasing crime rates in Los Angeles.
The actress described Pittsburgh as a welcoming and friendly place, stating, “The people of Pittsburgh are so nice. They’re warm, helpful, and genuine.” Her affection for the local community and its hardworking ethos is evident, as she relishes the opportunity to bond with their neighbours. “I love being home,” she added, reflecting on the sense of belonging that comes with returning to familiar surroundings.
O’Connor went on to explain that while the couple has embraced the serene lifestyle in Mount Lebanon, they continue to travel frequently for work commitments. “Joe and I travel together and try not to spend more than a week apart. I think travelling together makes our relationship stronger,” she remarked, indicating that their shared experiences on the road are integral to maintaining their bond.
In an earlier interview with Fox News, O’Connor elaborated on some of the factors that motivated their decision to leave Los Angeles. She pointed out the troubling rise in crime in the city, stating, “The crime in Los Angeles is at an all-time high.” Additionally, O’Connor noted a decline in opportunities within the entertainment industry, claiming that the city is no longer the dominant hub for filmmakers and actors. “Actors do not audition there anymore, as many casting directors don’t have offices there anymore,” she asserted.
Reflecting on the seismic shifts in the industry, she noted that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and recent strikes have transformed the landscape of Hollywood. “You can really work from anywhere, and you can travel to wherever you’re filming from your home base. That’s why we decided to switch it up and have our home base be in Pittsburgh,” O’Connor explained, underscoring the flexibility that modern technology affords creatives in the industry.
O’Connor’s relationship with Manganiello has blossomed since romance rumours first surfaced in September 2023, shortly before they confirmed their relationship in December. The couple became engaged in October 2025 after two years of dating, sharing their joyous news on Instagram. This blend of personal and professional developments demonstrates a triumphant chapter in their lives as they adapt to the changes brought on by their relocation.
As they embrace this new lifestyle, it is clear that O’Connor and Manganiello are cherishing their time together in Pittsburgh, benefiting from a peaceful environment while remaining dedicated to their careers. Their experiences resonate with many, as they seek a balance between work and the quality of life they desire.
With their roots firmly planted in Pittsburgh, Caitlin O’Connor and Joe Manganiello are embarking on an exciting journey that encapsulates love, community, and a renewed sense of purpose. As they delve into this “amazing new adventure,” the couple embodies the spirit of taking charge of one’s life and finding joy in the familiar.