Pierce Brosnan and his wife, Keely Shaye Smith, are preparing to sell their $100 million Malibu mansion after 25 years of ownership, citing concerns over wildfires and the significant costs associated with the property.
The actor, 73, told The Times that the estate has narrowly escaped destruction from wildfires multiple times, contributing to their decision to leave the coastal California residence. "We’ve been spared by the fires a few times now. But I think it’s time to move," Brosnan stated, adding, "Everything changes; everything falls apart... We live by this body of earth’s water on a fault in a ring of earthquakes. That creates a fear."
Malibu experienced devastating wildfires in January 2025, which led to the loss of homes for celebrities including Jeff Bridges, Mel Gibson, and Paris Hilton. The proximity to such natural disasters has become a significant factor in the couple's decision.
Brosnan also revealed that maintaining the sprawling compound has been a considerable financial undertaking. He admitted to taking on acting roles he wasn't passionate about to cover mortgage payments and school fees for their two sons, Paris and Dylan. "There have been doldrums. I have this beautiful house in Malibu. I have to pay the mortgage. There are school fees. There are definite moments of, oh, this boat is not quite sinking, but [it might] if we don’t get a job soon," he said.
The couple purchased two adjacent properties in Broad Beach for a combined $7.35 million in 2000, developing the Southeast Asian-inspired compound over more than a decade. The estate, known as the Orchid House, spans nearly 12,500 square feet and includes five bedrooms and 14 bathrooms across two residences. It features a theater, a wine cellar, a gym, a music room, and a spa.
Brosnan had previously attempted to sell the property in 2021 but withdrew it from the market. The couple also listed the home for rent at $120,000 per month in 2004. While they have found the Malibu home to be financially demanding, Brosnan expressed his affection for the area, noting, "I love Malibu. It has my heart," but added that "home is very much here in the islands" referring to their secondary residence in Kauai, Hawaii. The actor also discussed his commitment to fitness, crediting Smith for keeping him on track with a healthy lifestyle that includes walking the beach, swimming, cycling, and playing tennis.
Other actors, including Dean Cain, Rod Stewart, Mark Wahlberg, and Josh Brolin, have also relocated from California in recent years.