Comedian and former daytime talk show host Ellen DeGeneres has found a new source of joy and purpose far from Hollywood – in the lush mountains of Rwanda, where she continues her efforts to protect endangered mountain gorillas.

After recently relocating to the United Kingdom with her wife, Portia de Rossi, the couple has shifted focus from entertainment to animal conservation. Their move followed the re-election of Donald Trump as U.S. President – a development DeGeneres openly criticized, particularly because of his stance on LGBTQ+ rights. The move to the UK has brought them closer, both physically and emotionally, to their conservation projects in Africa.

A source close to the couple told In Touch Weekly that Ellen and Portia have grown increasingly passionate about animal welfare. While they support wildlife causes globally, they are especially connected to their gorilla conservation work in Rwanda.

“Ellen and Portia find immense joy in helping animals, especially through their gorilla sanctuary in Rwanda,” the source said. “Being there brings them peace and happiness. It’s their escape, their special place.”

Living in the UK has made visiting Rwanda more convenient, with travel times of under ten hours. This has allowed them to stay actively involved in their foundation’s efforts.

“They can now travel to Rwanda easily, and they visit the campus more frequently,” the source added. “Their long-term vision is to establish more animal-focused centers around the world. While gorillas hold a special place in their hearts, they’re committed to helping all animals.”

In 2019, Ellen began construction on a gorilla research and conservation facility in Rwanda, which officially opened on June 7, 2022, in Musanze. Named the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, the center supports the longstanding work of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund in preserving the critically endangered mountain gorilla population.

The campus stands as a testament to Ellen’s legacy beyond television – one rooted in compassion, environmental stewardship, and deep love for wildlife.