In a surprising turn of events, actor Joe Manganiello and his fiancée Caitlin O’Connor have bid farewell to Hollywood and relocated to Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania. The couple, who have been in a relationship since 2023, made the move last month, trading the glitz of Los Angeles for the quiet charm of their hometown, just outside Pittsburgh. This decision marks a significant lifestyle change for the couple, who are eager to embrace a different pace of life.
A Shift Away from the Spotlight
The couple’s departure from the City of Angels comes amid growing concerns about safety and the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry. O’Connor, known for her role in *Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty*, shared candid insights in an interview with Fox News Digital. “The crime in Los Angeles is at an all-time high,” she stated, highlighting the increased apprehension that led them to rethink their living situation. After a prolonged period of contemplation, the couple discovered a house that suited their needs perfectly, prompting their move back to familiar territory.
The actress also pointed out that the essence of Hollywood is changing. “L.A. is no longer the entertainment capital of the world,” O’Connor remarked, noting the shift towards remote auditions and the increasing number of film premieres occurring in New York. “Many projects are being filmed overseas now, even by professionals who’ve spent their lives in L.A.,” she added, reflecting on the industry’s transformation and her desire to adapt to these new realities.
Embracing the Seasons
One of the most delightful aspects of their new life in Pennsylvania is the chance to experience the changing seasons, something that was largely absent in sunny Southern California. O’Connor recounted their first night in the new home, which was greeted with a blanket of fresh snow. “It was beautiful,” she said, recalling how Manganiello took to shoveling the snow, an act that only deepened her affection for him. “I fell more in love with him, seeing him out there for almost three hours shoveling snow,” she confessed, adding that she had bought him a snowblower for Christmas to ease the burden in the future.
A New Chapter Together
The move to Pennsylvania follows the couple’s engagement announcement in October 2025, a heartfelt moment shared on their social media platforms alongside their pet chihuahua, Bubbles. With a relationship that blossomed over two years, this step signifies a commitment to building a life together outside the pressures of Hollywood. Manganiello, who was previously married to Sofia Vergara for seven years, appears to have found a fresh start with O’Connor, who has yet to experience marriage.
Their transition from Hollywood to a quieter suburban life encapsulates a growing trend among creatives seeking refuge from the demands of fame and the chaotic environment of major cities.
Why it Matters
As Joe Manganiello and Caitlin O’Connor embark on this new adventure, their story resonates with many who are reevaluating their own lives in light of the changing world. The couple’s move underscores a broader cultural shift, where personal safety, mental well-being, and a desire for a more fulfilling lifestyle take precedence over the allure of stardom. Their journey reflects a growing recognition that sometimes, stepping away from the limelight can lead to a deeper connection with oneself and with loved ones. As they settle into their new home, they remind us that happiness can often be found in the simplest of places, far from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood.
