Celebrating Stars Who Gained U.S. Citizenship

As the United States commemorates its 250th birthday, it’s notable that several celebrities have become U.S. citizens over the years. Among those who hold dual citizenship are Jim Carrey, Pamela Anderson, and Ryan Reynolds.

Jim Carrey, a Canadian native, expressed his gratitude towards the United States for shaping his career. In 2004, Carrey highlighted the importance of the U.S. in his life, while maintaining his Canadian heritage. He said, “This country has helped define me and make my dreams come true. I have no intention of giving up my Canadian heritage, and all those who loved and supported me.”

Another star, Liam Neeson, born in Northern Ireland, became an American citizen following the death of his wife, Natasha Richardson, in 2009. Neeson explained on “Good Morning America” that his extended stay in the U.S. and the kindness he experienced here motivated his decision. He stated, “I’ve been living here for 20 years and America’s been very, very good to me.”

Sofía Vergara passed her citizenship test in 2014 and was eager to join the country. Born in Colombia, she noted on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” the challenges of the citizenship process and her perfect score on the test.

Charlize Theron, originally from South Africa, shared her struggles with the citizenship process but ultimately succeeded. On “David Letterman” in 2008, Theron remarked, “It’s quite a process, you have to work hard, you know, study up.”

Arnold Schwarzenegger, who hailed from Austria, celebrated 35 years of American citizenship in 2018. He acknowledged the influence of America on his achievements after arriving with dreams and empty pockets 50 years prior.

Emily Blunt, a London-born actress, embraced U.S. citizenship in 2015 with her husband, John Krasinski, cheering her on. She recalled Matthew McConaughey’s wife, Camila Alves, also joining her in the ceremony.

Camila Alves marked her five-year citizenship anniversary on Instagram, noting her pride in being part of America.

In 2004, Pamela Anderson became a dual citizen, expressing her interest in the ability to vote and her desire to maintain her Canadian citizenship.

Billy Idol, the celebrated British rock star, transitioned to U.S. citizenship in 2018 with acknowledgment from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Ryan Reynolds, another Canadian, joined the ranks of American citizens in 2018, exercising his right to vote in the 2020 presidential election.

Michael J. Fox, born in Alberta, Canada, became a U.S. citizen in 2000, while Salma Hayek from Mexico naturalized in 2013, overcoming previous immigration hurdles.

Pierce Brosnan gained American citizenship in 2004, followed by Daniel Craig in 2020, who highlighted the universal immigrant experience in the U.S. at the “Knives Out” premiere.