Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed Embrace Farm Life Across California
Actor Ian Somerhalder, now 45, rose to fame as a lead in a beloved fantasy series but has stepped away from the bright lights of Hollywood to build a life on a working farm near Los Angeles. In a candid interview with E! News, Somerhalder explained why this change felt right for him and his family, highlighting a shift from screens to soil that resonates with many fans who follow his career and personal journey alike.
Moving to the countryside offered the family a tighter connection to daily rhythms that come with rural living. Somerhalder and his wife, Nikki Reed, have chosen a setting where they can share the responsibilities of farm life with their children, fostering a sense of grounding and responsibility that comes with tending to land, animals, and crops. The actor speaks warmly about the new chapter, noting that he still loves acting but has not pursued on-screen work for some time as he explores different lifestyles away from the spotlight.
During the premiere of a sustainable farming documentary titled Common Ground, Somerhalder reflected on the personal fulfillment that comes from this lifestyle. He described how the family’s move has allowed him to appreciate the slower pace and the tangible rewards of the land. This perspective aligns with a growing appreciation for sustainability and local food systems, themes that appear frequently in conversations about modern farming and environmental stewardship.
Reed, who starred in a high-profile film series, spoke about the family’s daily experiences with nature. She emphasized how watching her children grow and participate in growing their own food fosters a deeper understanding of where nourishment originates. Reed underscored the value of hands-on experience, noting that teaching children about farming practices and food sources can cultivate empathy and respect for the environment.
The couple’s collaboration began several years ago, with their bond strengthening after they began dating in 2014 and choosing to marry in 2015. They are parents to a daughter and a son, the latter born in June 2023. These milestones mark a transition from well-known public figures into a family focused on everyday life and shared responsibilities on the farm, where kids learn firsthand about farming cycles, seasonal changes, and the effort required to produce food for a household and local community.
Both Somerhalder and Reed have navigated the pressures of fame while pursuing a lifestyle that centers on nature and sustainability. Their personal choices echo a broader trend among actors and public figures who seek balance by welcoming quieter, more grounded experiences into their routines. The story they tell is one of evolution—moving from the bright lights of screen fame to a life grounded in farming, community, and the simple acts of growing, harvesting, and sharing food.