Actor Bailey Chase, 54, shared with Fox News Digital why his family left California five years ago. The “Homestead” star said the state’s COVID‑19 vaccine mandate for schoolchildren was the “final straw” that prompted the move.
Vaccine mandate drives relocation
During the height of the pandemic, California required students to be vaccinated to return to school. Chase explained that the mandate would have forced his three young children – daughter Waverly, 12, and twins Maggie and Gauge, 10 – to receive the shots before they could attend class. “They said they couldn’t go back to school without it,” he said, adding that the policy made it impossible for his family to stay in Los Angeles.
Life in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Chase and his wife Amy, a native of Hendersonville, now live in the mountains about 25 miles south of Asheville. The family enjoys a slower pace, with Chase acting as a full‑time soccer dad while his children pursue ballet, basketball and other activities. “It’s a kid’s dream,” he said, noting the nearby school, in‑laws, grocery store, golf course and soccer field.
Faith and community
Since moving, Chase says he has reconnected with his Christian faith, attending a local church and enrolling his daughters in youth group. He praised the environment for allowing open discussion of God and Jesus without fear of criticism.
Career adjustments
Leaving Hollywood came at a professional cost, Chase admitted, citing missed roles such as a part on “Grey’s Anatomy.” However, he highlighted new opportunities in faith‑based projects, including his starring role as former Green Beret Jeff Eriksson in the Angel Studios series “Homestead,” which premieres its second season on Nov. 3.
Outlook on preparedness
Chase also noted that filming “Homestead” inspired the cast to prepare for potential disasters. He now has a generator and other emergency supplies after a recent hurricane hit the area. When asked about Americans’ ability to survive major catastrophes, he suggested those living in less‑populated, self‑sufficient regions have a better chance.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
