The French government has defended granting citizenship to George Clooney, Amal Clooney, and their children, calling it a 'great chance' for France despite accusations of favoritism from a junior minister. The family resides in southern France and is contributing locally.
The Clooney family's naturalization, granted by decree and announced recently, has sparked debate in France. Junior minister Marie-Pierre Vedrenne criticized the decision in a Franceinfo interview as an 'issue of fairness,' arguing it favors fame over merit and sends the 'wrong message,' signaling 'double standards.' She plans to review the procedure, as reported by Le Monde.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez responded by affirming it as a legitimate 'decision of the public authority' with benefits for France. The Foreign Ministry backed this, detailing a 'rigorous procedure' involving security checks, prefecture interviews, and tax stamps. Under France's civic code, it applies to foreigners contributing to France's influence and economy. The ministry added: 'Like many French people, we are delighted to welcome George and Amal Clooney to the national community.'
The Clooneys live in Brignoles, Var department. George Clooney joked on Canal+ about his 'horrible' French, while his wife and children speak it fluently, and he professed love for French culture in an RTL interview despite language struggles.
U.S. President Donald Trump mocked the news on Truth Social. Meanwhile, Clooney is filming a cameo in a Netflix 'Call My Agent!' spinoff, boosting the local entertainment scene.