Ian Somerhalder Trades Hollywood for Farming: A New Chapter in His Life
From the Screen to the Farm When actor Ian Somerhalder decided to leave Hollywood behind and embrace farming, he embarked on a new and challenging journey. The actor, best known for his role in “The Vampire Diaries,” found this new path to be unexpectedly fulfilling. “People have some corn, I have some beans,” he shared with E! News last week. About five years ago, Somerhalder and his wife, actress Nikki Reed, moved their family from Los Angeles to a ranch in California, embracing a more grounded lifestyle.
A Return to Simplicity Somerhalder described his new life as “more satisfying” compared to his time in Hollywood. He reflected on the simplicity and authenticity of farm life, saying, “It’s so cool. It’s like the way people used to do it.” He emphasized that this return to basics feels more rewarding and uplifting than the fantasy world of Hollywood.
Challenges and Triumphs The transition to farming wasn’t without its hurdles. Somerhalder acknowledged facing “a lot of failure” initially. “I learned that some of the things I tried to grow might not work, but other things did,” he explained. Despite these setbacks, he has found joy in involving his children and engaging with the local community, creating a system of sharing and bartering with neighbors.
Teaching Values Through Experience Somerhalder and Reed are committed to teaching their two young children the importance of balance in nature and community. “What my parents taught us very early on is that if you look around you, you will find balance in nature,” he said. The couple emphasizes the values of giving and receiving in harmony to achieve a fulfilling and balanced life.
No Regrets Reflecting on his career change, Somerhalder expressed no regrets about leaving Hollywood. “I loved what I did for a really long time. I don’t miss any of that,” he said. While he cherishes his past work in the film industry, he finds immense satisfaction in his current role as a farmer and family man.
