French government explains why George and Amal Clooney were granted citizenship | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleJohn LeicesterThursday 01 January 2026 12:30 GMTRelated: Amal Clooney brings husband George to tears during lifetime achievement award speechHollywood actor George Clooney, his wife Amal Clooney, and their two children have been granted French citizenship.Marie-Pierre Vedrenne, a junior minister, has suggested the decision might imply special treatment given George Clooney's admitted poor French language skills.The Foreign Ministry justified the citizenship under a law allowing naturalisation for foreign nationals who enhance France's global standing and economic well-being.The French government said the couple contribute significantly to France's international influence and cultural outreach.The Clooneys, who purchased an estate in France in 2021, reportedly live there part-time to ensure privacy and protect their children from the Hollywood spotlight.In fullFrance defends George and Amal Clooney citizenship amid claims of special treatmentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in