Why 'Lost' Star Matthew Fox Swapped La For Italy'S Dolce Vita

Matthew Fox's Italian Escape: A Star's Journey from LA to Europe

Matthew Fox, the actor who once captivated audiences as Dr. Jack Shepard in the iconic series 'Lost,' has swapped the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles for the tranquil beauty of Italy. The 59-year-old star made this dramatic life change back in 2015, choosing to step away from the public eye to dedicate more time to his family and personal interests.

In a candid chat with PEOPLE, Matthew revealed that after years of being heavily in the spotlight with 'Lost' and subsequent film projects, he felt the urge to retreat and focus on his loved ones. "I spent a lot of time, for a few years there [in Los Angeles], heavily in the spotlight, specifically with 'Lost,' and then did a couple of years of doing films after that," he shared. "For me, the step away was more about spending time with my family..."

"Our daughter was entering her teen years, and I had been on sets and also traveling around doing a lot of promotion for 'Lost.' Margherita and I really felt like it was a great time for us to really, really focus on our kids that are going through the teen years, which is always a bit of a challenge," Matthew explained.

Family First: Prioritizing Personal Life

The move to Italy represented more than just a change of scenery for Fox. It was a conscious decision to prioritize family life, putting his wife Margherita Ronchi and their children, Kyle and Byron, at the center of his world. Reflecting on his career hiatus, he told Variety: "I felt like it was time to engage really intensely with my family."

The shift allowed Matthew to cherish moments with his children, compensating for the time missed during his demanding career. His passion for flying and making music also flourished in this period of self-imposed calm.

Making a Comeback: Matthew Returns to TV

After a successful but demanding career, Matthew Fox has returned to the small screen with renewed energy and vigor. His first TV role since 'Lost' was in 'Last Light' in 2022, followed by a stint in the comedy series 'CAUGHT.' Now, he's back prominently in the new 'Yellowstone' spinoff, 'The Madison.'

The show, which marks his major TV return, features him as a bachelor who finds solace in the expansive outdoors. The storyline follows a family from New York City relocating to Montana's Madison River Valley after a tragic event. Among the star-studded cast is Michelle Pfeiffer, who plays the matriarch, Stacy Clyburn. Matthew credits producer Taylor Sheridan for encouraging his return to acting, admitting, "I kind of missed storytelling."

With a fresh perspective and a renewed passion for storytelling, Matthew Fox's journey from the bright lights of Hollywood to the peaceful landscapes of Italy, and back to television, shows that sometimes, taking a step back is necessary to leap forward.