Kellan Lutz, best known for his role in the "Twilight" films, told a national podcast this week that he and his wife moved their family from Orange County, California, to Franklin, Tennessee, about three years ago. The actor said the decision followed the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic and was driven largely by family needs, faith-based community and the practicalities of parenting while he works on location.
Roots, family and a different pace
On the podcast "Inside of You" with Michael Rosenbaum, Lutz described the move as one motivated by his wife’s desire to be close to family after their second child was born. He said his wife, Brittany, was raised in Orange County but her family ultimately relocated as well, and the couple chose Tennessee to ensure a nearby support system when he travels for work.
"The whole Tennessee move happened when we had our second kid,"
Lutz said the family acquired land in the Franklin area and became involved in local Bible studies and church communities. He described the new environment as peaceful and supportive, especially for a growing family with parents who travel for professional commitments.
What he told listeners
During the conversation, Lutz framed the move as a pragmatic response to the pressures many young parents experienced during and after the pandemic. He said other fathers in his circle relayed that new mothers often prefer to move closer to their own parents to help with childcare, and that was a factor in his family’s decision.
He also acknowledged that, despite appreciating elements of Tennessee life, his wife still hopes to return to California at some point — or adopt a bi-coastal lifestyle — reflecting a common tension for families balancing careers in entertainment with parenting and community ties.
Local perspective and possible ripple effects
Franklin, a city south of Nashville, has been a destination for some newcomers seeking more land, a slower pace and established faith communities. Lutz’s account echoes comments from other entertainers who in recent years have chosen homes outside of Los Angeles and New York for family reasons. While the actor stopped short of projecting how long they will remain in Tennessee, he said they planned to give the move "a couple years," and that so far it has been "great."
Local officials and residents say an influx of newcomers can bring both opportunities and pressures — from increased demand for housing and services to strengthened local economies and new volunteer resources for churches and schools. Lutz’s mention of land ownership and active participation in church groups highlights some attractions that draw families to the area.
- Move timing: Lutz said the family relocated about three years ago.
- Origin: The family left Orange County, California.
- Local base: Lutz identified Franklin as the community where they settled.
Fields of faith and community supports
Lutz specifically referenced involvement with Bible studies and churches as part of the family’s daily life since the move. For many new residents, faith-based organizations provide social networks, childcare assistance, and other supports that can be especially valuable when one parent’s work requires frequent travel.
Asked whether they would remain permanently, Lutz said the family didn’t have a long-term plan and would reassess over time. He emphasized the practical reasons for choosing Tennessee while recognizing his wife’s attachment to California.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| When they moved | About three years ago |
| From | Orange County, California |
| Where | Franklin, Tennessee (land purchase; church involvement) |
As families like Lutz’s make relocation decisions, local leaders and service providers will likely continue seeing the effects in housing demand, enrollment patterns and community engagement. For residents weighing similar choices, the actor’s account underscores common considerations: proximity to family, access to support networks, and the role of faith and community in daily life.
For now, Lutz said the change of scene has been positive. He noted the move has offered his family time, space and a support system while they juggle the demands of his career and parenting.
Brandon McAllister, State Correspondent, WE NEWS.
