Actress Ali Larter on Why She Relocated Family From Hollywood to Rural Idaho

Ali Larter attends the American Friends of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra Los Angeles Gala in Beverly Hills, Calif., on Oct. 25, 2018. Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for American Friends of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra

Actress Ali Larter says she feels grounded after trading the glitz and glamor of the Hollywood hills for the mountains of Idaho.

During an interview with Rue Magazine published Sept. 17, the 48-year-old revealed how she and her family unexpectedly came to the decision to leave Los Angeles, and found peace in the small town of Sun Valley.

The “Legally Blonde” star and her husband—actor and comedian Hayes MacArthur—recalled the uncertainty they felt in California specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The industry was at a total standstill and our kids were stuck on screens with remote schooling,” MacArthur said.

“So, after a year, we just packed up the car and bounced.” Larter said, “We figured it was an opportunity to go on an adventure as a family. And we just started driving north.”

Together with their two children and dog, Nala, the family decided to plant their roots after being drawn to the beauty and calm of the community-driven town.

“We fell in love with the beauty of the mountains and their quiet grandness. Neither of us had ever lived in a small town before,“ Larter said. ”People look out for each other. There’s a real sense of community here and we’re so happy to be a part of it.”

Last year their 4,400-square-foot dream home was completed, stretching across two acres of land. They began building the house in 2022, with hopes of creating a home that will “fit into the natural geography of Sun Valley.”

Meanwhile, the couple is no stranger to a fast-paced lifestyle, and despite the vast adjustment, they both agree, it serves as a simple reminder to live in the moment.

“Looking at the mountains relaxes and inspires me. Most of the time in my life, I feel like I’m going 1,000 miles an hour and these giant rocks chill me out,” she said.

“The mountains have a way of grounding you and slowing you down—especially ... when you’re stuck in traffic because there’s a herd of elk blocking the road.”

The couple joins the likes of many other famous faces in Hollywood who have left the Golden State, citing a less hectic environment for themselves and their families away from the spotlight.

Larter, a former model, rose to fame in the 1999 comedy “Varsity Blues” before starring in the hit film “Legally Blonde” in 2001 alongside Academy award-winner, Reese Witherspoon.

During that time she met her husband of now 15 years, who was an acting newcomer, while also taking interest in stand-up comedy and writing.

Larter has since appeared in a number of films including the “Final Destination” series.