In a surprising turn of events, Lulu Simon, the daughter of legendary musician Paul Simon, has publicly criticized actor Richard Gere for selling her childhood home to developers. The 30-year-old musician took to her Instagram Stories on July 8, 2025, to express her discontent with the 75-year-old actor, who purchased the historic Connecticut mansion in 2022.
Lulu’s post was a clear indication of her feelings, stating, “JUST IN CASE ANYONE WAS WONDERING IF I STILL HATE RICHARD GERE – I DO!” She accused Gere of breaking a promise he made when he bought the property, claiming, “HE BOUGHT MY CHILDHOOD HOME. PROMISED HE WOULD TAKE CARE OF THE LAND AS CONDITION OF HIS PURCHASE. PROCEEDED TO NEVER ACTUALLY MOVE IN & JUST SOLD IT TO A DEVELOPER AS 9 SEPARATE PLOTS :).”
This controversy stems from Gere’s decision to sell the estate, which he had bought from Paul Simon and his wife, Edie Brickell, for $10.8 million. In October 2024, Gere sold the property to Hudson Valley House Parts for $10.7 million, a move that has sparked outrage among preservationists and local residents who are concerned about the planned demolition of the historic mansion.
In her Instagram Stories, Lulu included a screenshot of a news article discussing the impending demolition of the mansion, highlighting the efforts of preservationists who are racing to save its 1930s charm before the 32-acre lot is transformed into nine new homes. The article noted that Gere had initially intended to convert the estate into a private farm, a plan that never came to fruition.
The emotional weight of the situation was further emphasized when Lulu shared a photo of Richard Gere superimposed over images of her deceased pets, writing, “I HOPE MY DEAD PETS BURIED IN THAT BACK YARD HAUNT YOU UNTIL YOU DESCEND INTO A SLOW AND UNRELENTING MADNESS.” This dramatic statement underscores the deep personal connection Lulu has to the property and her frustration with Gere’s actions.
Richard Gere, who has recently moved to Spain with his wife, Alejandra Silva, and their two young sons, has not publicly responded to Lulu’s accusations. However, his lawyer, Richard Rucci, addressed community concerns during a Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, stating that the new owners of the property are committed to maintaining a farming lifestyle and are not planning a large commercial operation.
As the story unfolds, it highlights the complex relationship between celebrity, property ownership, and community values. For Lulu Simon, this childhood home represents more than just real estate; it is a symbol of her past and a connection to her family’s legacy.
The sale and subsequent plans for the property have raised questions about the responsibilities of new owners, especially when they purchase homes with historical significance. As preservationists work to salvage elements of the estate, the conversation around the impact of celebrity real estate transactions continues to evolve.
This incident also reflects a broader trend in Hollywood, where celebrities often find themselves at the center of community controversies. The sale of high-profile properties can lead to significant changes in neighborhoods, prompting reactions from residents and former owners alike.
As fans of both Paul Simon and Richard Gere, many are left wondering how this situation will resolve and what it means for the future of the property. Will preservation efforts succeed, or will the mansion be lost to development? The answers remain to be seen, but one thing is clear: the impact of this sale extends far beyond the transaction itself, touching on themes of nostalgia, community, and the often complicated nature of celebrity life.
In the meantime, Lulu Simon’s passionate outcry serves as a reminder of the emotional ties that can exist between people and their homes, especially when those homes hold cherished memories. As the story develops, it will be interesting to see how both parties navigate this public fallout and what it ultimately means for the legacy of the property in question.