Kellan Lutz Opens Up About Leaving L.A. for Tennessee: 'Our Hearts Are Still in California'

Kellan Lutz is getting candid about his family's decision to leave California and create a new home base in Tennessee. The Twilight star, 41, opened up about leaving L.A. three years ago with his wife Brittany Lutz and their two children, Ashtyn, 5, and Kasen, 4, during a recent appearance on the Inside of You podcast.

While he and his family have now made a home for themselves in Franklin, Tenn., Kellan admits he "never wanted to leave" California and that he doesn't know "how long we'll stay in Tennessee." "My wife and I, our hearts are still in California, especially Orange County," he continues. After emphasizing how much he "loves California," he then explains that "the whole Tennessee move happened when we had our second kid."

The Decision to Leave

Despite his wife's family being from Orange County, his in-laws decided to leave the West Coast after the COVID-19 pandemic as "a lot of people" did, Kellan recalls. "And so, her family chose to leave California, and we followed. You know, mainly when I'm working, my wife didn't have a support system, someone to help with the kids when I'm away," he adds.

The actor notes how one of their kids got sick while he was away working a while back, and his wife "felt really out of control, as far as not being able to bring both kids there, or just kind of helpless. So she's like, 'Can we move?' I'm like, 'Yeah, of course.'" After getting advice from people about the topic, especially those who are "ahead of me in life," Kellan says he knew it would be best to move closer to his in-laws to have more "help with the kids."

The couple, who wed in 2017, have adjusted to Tennessee life since relocating, with the Legend of Hercules star noting how they've found a community there that makes it feel more like home.

Finding Community in Franklin

"There's a lot of great things about Tennessee, especially Franklin where we live," he shares. "We got some land, got great Bible studies that we're a part of, great churches, great community." He also highlights how the area is home to "a lot of actors," so it's easy for him to navigate the industry from there.

"I've gone to probably more movie premieres in Franklin, Tennessee, than I have in L.A., you know, the last couple years since I lived there. The industry is still there, which I'm grateful for," he adds.

Franklin, a historic city just south of Nashville, has become a popular destination for celebrities seeking a slower pace of life while maintaining proximity to the entertainment industry. The city's charming downtown, vibrant arts scene, and strong sense of community have made it an attractive alternative to the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.

The Challenges of Tennessee Life

Still, Kellan says there are some qualities that he and his family have had a hard time getting used to when it comes to Tennessee life. "There are things that are hard for us. Like, we aren't seasons people. There are tornadoes. My wife goes on red alert, especially when you have kids. And we do miss good sushi and good Mexican food," he concludes.

The adjustment to the Mid-South's climate has been particularly challenging. Unlike Southern California's Mediterranean weather, Tennessee experiences distinct seasons, including hot, humid summers and cold winters. The threat of tornadoes during the spring and fall has also been a source of anxiety for the family.

A Bi-Coastal Future?

Despite the challenges, Kellan remains open to the possibility of returning to California. "I don't know how long we'll stay in Tennessee," he admits. He notes that they will likely go back to Orange County "someday," or maybe even embrace a "bi-coastal" lifestyle.

The couple's decision to move was driven by practical considerations, but their hearts remain in California. "My wife and I, our hearts are still in California, especially Orange County," he emphasizes.

Kellan's story is one that resonates with many families who have made similar decisions in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted countless people to reevaluate their living situations, with many leaving expensive coastal cities for more affordable, family-friendly communities in the South and Midwest.

For the Lutz family, the move to Tennessee has provided the support system they needed, while still allowing Kellan to maintain his acting career. The community they've found in Franklin has become a source of strength and connection, even as they miss the comforts of California life.

What's Next for the Lutz Family?

As Kellan continues to navigate his career and family life, he and Brittany are focused on creating a stable, nurturing environment for their children. Whether that means staying in Tennessee, returning to California, or splitting their time between the two, they are committed to making the best decisions for their family.

In the meantime, Kellan is grateful for the opportunities that have come his way, both professionally and personally. "The industry is still there, which I'm grateful for," he says of his work in Tennessee.

Kellan Lutz's candid conversation about his family's move highlights the complexities of modern life. It's a reminder that even celebrities face the same dilemmas as everyone else: balancing career and family, making sacrifices for the people they love, and trying to find a place to call home.