Country music icon Garth Brooks is considering leaving the U.S. and relocating to Ireland amid serious legal challenges stemming from accusations of sexual assault. During a recent episode of his Facebook Live series, Inside Studio G, the 62-year-old singer revealed his wife, fellow country star Trisha Yearwood, is "pushing hard" for the move. Brooks' remarks come as he faces allegations of assault by a former makeup artist, sparking a high-profile legal battle.
"The Queen is pushing hard for that house in Ireland," Brooks said, referring to Yearwood. "She just fell head over heels in love with the country during our last trip. Everyone was so sweet to her." The couple has a significant fan base in Ireland, underscored by Brooks' five sold-out concerts at Dublin's Croke Park in 2022, a testament to their enduring popularity there.
Brooks' potential move abroad coincides with his ongoing legal troubles in the U.S. A civil complaint filed in California accuses him of sexual assault and battery, claims which Brooks has vehemently denied. The plaintiff, identified only as "Jane Roe," alleges the incidents occurred during her employment as a makeup artist for Brooks and Yearwood in 2017. Among the claims are allegations that Brooks undressed in her presence, made sexual comments, and assaulted her. Brooks has dismissed the allegations as attempts at extortion, stating, "For the last two months, I have been hassled to no end with threats, lies, and tragic tales of what my future would be if I did not write a check for many millions of dollars."
Legal proceedings intensified when Brooks filed a countersuit, naming his accuser and seeking compensatory and punitive damages for what he describes as a "malicious scheme to blackmail" him. His legal team argues that the accusations were fabricated after he rejected her requests for salaried employment and medical benefits. In response, Roe's legal team condemned Brooks for publicly naming their client, accusing him of using his influence to intimidate and punish.
As the legal dispute unfolds, Brooks' wife, Trisha Yearwood, is reportedly advocating for a fresh start in Ireland. The couple's potential move follows the sale of Yearwood's Brentwood, Tennessee home, a transaction finalized just before Brooks' legal troubles became public. Brooks' love for Ireland has been evident over the years. "For anybody that gets to play music, you're damn lucky if you get to play in Ireland, and I'll be damn lucky if I get to play there again," he previously said.
Legal experts suggest Brooks' move to federal court could impact the trajectory of the case. Attorney Tre Lovell explained, "Federal court offers advantages such as easier sealing of filings, quicker trial dates, and a broader jury pool." The case, initially filed in California state court, could see significant changes if Brooks' motion to move it to federal jurisdiction succeeds.
Brooks' legal woes come amidst growing scrutiny of his public persona. In a rare public appearance since his arrest, he expressed gratitude for his family's support during a video call on his 55th birthday. "Thank you for being strong," he told his children. "I love y'all and I can't wait to see y'all."
The scandal has elicited mixed reactions from fans. Some have expressed support for Brooks, while others have criticized his family's attempts to redirect public focus. Recently, his son Christian "King" Combs took over Brooks' social media, sharing nostalgic videos to "spread good energy," a move seen by many as an effort to shift the narrative.
