After years spent amidst the bright lights of Hollywood, actor Dennis Quaid has embraced a new chapter in his life that prioritises a more tranquil lifestyle in Nashville, Tennessee. The 72-year-old star, who is married to 33-year-old Laura Savoie, made the move to the southern state in 2020, seeking a refreshing change from the fast-paced existence he experienced for decades in Los Angeles.
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Quaid candidly shared his daily routine in Nashville during a recent interview promoting his latest project, *Water Wars*. “Basically I play golf,” he commented, adding that he enjoys spending time at home in a more spacious and community-oriented environment. He appreciates the balance Nashville strikes between urban life and open land, making it an ideal location for families and fostering meaningful friendships.
The sense of belonging in Nashville has been transformative for Quaid, who has fondly noted that the city has a community spirit that resonates with him. He reflected on his former life in Los Angeles, describing the city as “fantastic” during his earlier years but expressing disappointment at its evolution over time. The camaraderie he once experienced among fellow actors during auditions has diminished, he reminisced, as the industry has shifted dramatically.
In the past, auditions were very much a communal affair. Quaid recalled a time when actors would gather in casting offices, all vying for the same roles and waiting to perform alongside one another. “You met a lot of people that way and that’s where a community was formed,” he remarked, highlighting the value of human connection in a creative industry.
However, that sense of togetherness has largely been replaced by modern practices, with many auditions now carried out via self-tapes submitted from home, leading to a more isolating experience. Quaid expressed his concern that the shift to remote submissions has eroded the communal fabric of the entertainment business.
If he were starting his career today, Quaid indicated he might reconsider his choice of city. “If I was an actor starting out, I wouldn’t go to L.A. I would go to Atlanta,” he stated, noting that Hollywood has seen a trend towards local casting for smaller roles, diminishing the exclusive allure of the West Coast.
Despite his reassessment of Los Angeles, Quaid remains open to the possibility of returning in the future, although he noted that conditions would need to improve significantly. He observed, “I moved before the fires and everything, but I just think things have got to get a little better there.” For now, he finds great contentment in the warmth and welcoming nature of Tennessee.
Quaid noted that Nashville’s reputation extends beyond its country music roots, emphasising its diverse cultural landscape. “It’s not a one-horse town,” he insisted. “It’s not just music, although about 75 per cent of all music in the United States, no matter what genre, is done right here in Nashville.” This cultural richness is complemented by the city’s growth into a multi-industry hub, enhancing its character while attracting residents from across the nation.
In his latest venture, *Water Wars*, Quaid narrates a gripping documentary that delves into the fierce legal battles surrounding water rights in Texas. The film juxtaposes the interests of ranchers and farmers against those of affluent landowners, shedding light on a crucial yet often overlooked issue. The documentary is set to premiere on Prime Video on September 4.
As Quaid continues to evolve both personally and professionally, his move to Tennessee stands as a testament to the importance of community and balance in one’s life. While Hollywood remains a significant part of his past, the serene rhythm of Nashville offers him a newfound sense of joy and fulfilment, a refreshing change in a career that has spanned nearly five decades.