Gary Sinise, the award-winning actor, has made a significant life change by stepping away from Hollywood. In a conversation with Fox News Digital, he shared the reasons behind his move to Nashville, Tennessee.
Sinise, known for his role in “Forrest Gump,” left California for several personal reasons. His son Mac’s battle with cancer and his family’s needs were at the forefront. “When I stepped away from acting in 2019, I had made some money. I had some investments going,” Sinise said, recalling the time when his son was diagnosed, and how he chose to be by his side. “Mac fought for the next four or five years, and I was his battle buddy.” His father’s stroke in 2021 compounded the family’s challenges.
“You’ll never regret focusing on family,” Sinise remarked, emphasizing the choice to prioritize loved ones during difficult times.
High living costs in California also played a role in his decision. Sinise compared gas prices and property taxes between California and Tennessee. “There’s a gas station where I was getting gas for $2.59 a gallon. In California, it’s up at $5.79,” he noted. Moving to Tennessee allowed him to save money and invest in his family’s future rather than spending it on taxes.
Sinise remains open to returning to acting if the right project appears. However, his focus has shifted significantly since founding the Gary Sinise Foundation in 2011. He is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families. “Once folks come into our program, they’re part of our family,” he said, highlighting the long-term support the foundation offers.
In addition to his foundation work, Sinise honors his late son, Mac, by sharing his music. Mac left behind a collection of music, which Sinise has released posthumously. “All the proceeds… will go to the Gary Sinise Foundation,” he said, continuing his son’s legacy and mission to help military families.