**Dennis Quaid Reflects on Departure from Los Angeles to Nashville**
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Dennis Quaid, the celebrated actor known for his role in *Parent Trap*, has shared his thoughts on why he chose to leave Los Angeles, once regarded as a vibrant city, for Nashville. Speaking during CMA Fest in Nashville over the weekend, the 72-year-old reflected on the changes he has witnessed in LA, describing how it has deteriorated over the years.
In an interview, Quaid reminisced about the allure of Los Angeles in the past, particularly during the 1990s when he felt it was a “fantastic” place to live. However, his feelings have turned somber in recent times. “It used to be such a great town,” he remarked, noting that people are now paying high taxes without receiving adequate public services in return. His dissatisfaction stems from a growing sense of frustration with the city’s decline.
This sentiment has likely contributed to Quaid’s relocation decision in 2020, when he and his wife, Laura Savoie, made Nashville their primary residence. Before this move, Quaid had spent decades residing in the Hollywood area, while also owning property in Texas and Montana. His 418-acre ranch, once featured in *Architectural Digest*, was listed for $14 million in 2011, highlighting the actor’s diverse real estate interests.
Quaid’s departure from Los Angeles was catalysed by personal experiences, particularly during devastating wildfires that swept through Southern California. At one point, he was forced to evacuate his home situated in the affluent Brentwood neighbourhood. Reflecting on these traumatic events, Quaid noted how the fires exposed existing issues that had long been neglected. He remarked, “The fire happens and it kind of exposes all those things that should have been taken care of. So people are — people are angry, half angry and they’re half kind of feel like giving up, to tell you the truth.”
Moreover, Quaid articulated a broader sentiment that many former residents of Los Angeles might share. He underscored that he is merely “one of thousands” who have decided to leave, expressing a heartfelt desire for the city to reclaim its former status. “I really do hope the town comes back,” he said, recalling the sense of community that once flourished in LA. “It was a great community, too. And something’s happened. People need to be inspired there.”
Since his move, Quaid has participated in protests in Los Angeles, notably the “They Let Us Burn” demonstrations, calling for the resignation of Mayor Karen Bass. At a related event earlier in January, reality TV star Spencer Pratt announced his candidacy for the mayoral position, a development that Quaid openly supported. “I hope Pratt wins,” remarked Quaid, when asked about his views on the potential candidacy.
Quaid’s political outlook seems to lean toward independent perspectives, as he described himself as a “common-sense independent” in a past discussion with Pastor Greg Laurie. He expressed admiration for former President Donald Trump, labelling him “very surprisingly approachable and very funny… and really genuine.”
As Quaid continues to settle into his new life in Nashville, his comments reflect a sentiment of concern for Los Angeles, a city that has clearly changed in ways that have affected its long-time residents. He hopes for a revitalisation of what he remembers as a thriving community, although whether that vision comes to fruition remains uncertain as the city grapples with ongoing challenges.
Through his reflections, Quaid exemplifies the struggles faced by many individuals who have found the urban landscape of Los Angeles increasingly difficult to navigate. His move to Nashville not only marks a personal life change but also signals a broader commentary on the state of cities facing similar dilemmas worldwide.