Flick International Cozy, empty Los Angeles home with a 'For Sale' sign and colorful flowers in the yard

Rena Sofer Bids Farewell to Los Angeles After 35 Years with a Move to New York City

Actress Rena Sofer, known for her role on the daytime drama General Hospital, is embarking on a new chapter in her life as she leaves Los Angeles after 35 years. Her journey takes her to New York City, where she and her husband Sanford Bookstaver, along with their five beloved dogs, are ready to embrace a different lifestyle.

In a heartfelt Instagram video shared last week, the 56-year-old actress captured the emotions of this significant life transition. The couple stands outside their former home, reflecting on their time in LA, while Bookstaver announces, “We are off to New York.” As Sofer begins to sing the iconic song New York State of Mind by Billy Joel, it becomes clear that this move marks both an ending and a new beginning.

In her post, Sofer expressed emotional sentiments about her long tenure in Los Angeles. “We’ve been in LA for almost 35 years and now it’s time for me and @sbookstaver to go,” she wrote. She continued, “No one better than Billy Joel to create the perfect soundtrack to our dreams! Yes, I’m getting emotional. I met and had my children in LA, met the man of my dreams, and created an incredible life there.”

Her reflections illustrate the deep connections formed over the years in the city of angels. She shared fond memories of her friendships and successes, stating, “I had amazing success in the biz and made all my lifelong friends who I will miss desperately.” Among those she will particularly miss are her best friend and her brother.

Sofer thanked Los Angeles for its role in shaping her life, feeling a mix of nostalgia and excitement as she transitions to a quieter, more serene environment. “Thank you LA for being you. And now on to quieter and calmer times. Leave it to a leaf blower to finish this post, there is nothing more LA!” she humorously concluded.

The couple’s exit from Los Angeles is marked by a sense of adventure as they prepare to drive cross-country in their Rivian vehicle, her initial post read, “Now we are off in our @rivianofficial with our 5 dogs in the back to our new life! #saygoodbyetohollywood.” It’s a poignant farewell to a city that has been home for so long.

A Successful Career on General Hospital

Sofer has had a remarkable career in television, first appearing on General Hospital as Lois Cerullo in 1993. Her talent garnered recognition, culminating in a Daytime Emmy Award win in 1995 for her outstanding performance as a supporting actress on the show. After departing the show in 1997, she returned in 2023, solidifying her place in the hearts of soap opera fans.

Despite the geographical change, insiders close to the actress report that there has not been any discussion of her leaving the show. This continuity in her professional life adds reassurance for her fans as she embarks on this cross-country journey.

A Complex Love Story

Sofer’s relationship with Bookstaver has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. The couple first married in 2003 and welcomed their daughter Avalon in 2005. However, their journey included a divorce in 2017, leading many to believe their story was over. In a surprising twist, they rekindled their romance in 2019, ultimately remarrying in 2024.

This year marks a momentous occasion for the couple as they celebrate their first and 22nd wedding anniversaries in May. Sofer shared a touching post with side-by-side images from their first wedding day and their recent ceremony, captioning it, “Happy 1/22 wedding anniversary to the LOML!!!”

In her heartfelt reflections, she noted, “Married 22 years ago and remarried 1 year ago! What a beautiful and special journey we’ve been on!! I’m so excited for our next step! BIG MOVE!! I wouldn’t want anyone but you @sbookstaver by my side!!! I love you endlessly.”

In addition to Avalon, Sofer is also the mother of Rosabel Rosalind Kurth, whom she shares with her ex-husband Wallace Kurth. Both daughters represent significant joys in her life, adding depth to her emotional farewell to LA.

A New Chapter Awaits

As Rena Sofer and her family transition from the bustling environment of Los Angeles to the vibrant streets of New York City, they take with them a lifetime of memories and experiences. This move signifies more than just a change of address; it represents a fresh start for the actress, her husband, and their furry friends.

Although Sofer leaves behind a city rich with personal history, she embraces the opportunities and adventures that await in her new home. Living in New York City promises a blend of excitement and tranquility, offering a new canvas for their family life.

The story of Rena Sofer resonates not just as a celebrity’s relocation, but as a reminder of the importance of chapters in life, marked by love, growth, and new beginnings. As she embarks on this next phase, fans and friends alike will surely be cheering her on from afar.