Jennifer Aniston, beloved star of Friends and one of the most recognizable actresses in the world, is taking major steps to reclaim her sense of safety following a deeply disturbing stalker incident that shook her to the core.
The 56-year-old actress was targeted last month by an alleged stalker who crashed his car into the gates of her $21 million Bel-Air mansion in Los Angeles.
The man, later identified as 48-year-old Jimmy Wayne Carwyle, reportedly had been harassing Aniston for over a year through unwanted messages, emails, and voicemails, declaring her as his “bride” and “true soulmate.”
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Aniston was at home during the break-in attempt, but her well-trained security team intercepted Carwyle and held him at gunpoint until police arrived.
The incident, understandably, left Aniston emotionally shaken and looking for immediate ways to protect herself and restore a sense of peace.
Now, sources close to the actress say she is making a “desperate move” to feel “safe” again — retreating to a more secluded and private estate in Montecito, California.
Aniston purchased the $15 million home last year from none other than media mogul Oprah Winfrey.
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The serene, country-like setting offers a significant contrast to her high-profile, exposed Bel-Air residence.
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Jennifer Aniston completely remodeling her Montecito mansion she purchased from Oprah Winfrey for $14.8M! Post with permission pic.twitter.com/Q4Q1BStXfI— CarolAniston (@jenanistoworld) July 1, 2024
“Jen is happy to have a safe place to run to where she can let her hair down,” an insider told Daily Mail.
“Though she loves Los Angeles because it is where she grew up, she is craving more of a country setting these days away from the noise.”
Aniston’s new Montecito retreat is tucked away from the public eye, offering natural protection with its lush surroundings and limited public access — a stark difference from her Bel-Air home, which sits directly on the street and allows easy visibility from passing cars.
The actress reportedly plans to spend the summer there while she determines her next steps.
“She is flipped out,” the insider added. “It’s a bad feeling knowing someone wants to break into your sanctuary. It’s such a shame that happened.”
Jennifer Aniston's shirtless ‘stalker’ gives creepy smile in court pic.twitter.com/DUkg5vvRb3
— The Sun (@TheSun) May 9, 2025
The Montecito estate is expected to be a place of healing for Aniston.
She won’t be alone — close friends like Jimmy Kimmel and Jason Bateman are expected to visit and provide support, helping her create a temporary home base where she can feel secure and relaxed.
Carwyle’s obsession with Aniston took a disturbing turn long before the break-in.
According to prosecutors, he had been harassing the actress since March 2023. His wife Julia later revealed shocking details about his mental state, telling The Mail that he believed he was Jesus Christ and that Jennifer Aniston was supposed to be his queen.
“He went to California six months ago,” she said. “He was going to go see her.”
An intruder has been taken into custody by LAPD after crashing through the front gate of Jennifer Aniston’s Bel Air mansion.
The intruder was taken down by private security. Jennifer Aniston was home at the time. pic.twitter.com/fFKsPGN1No
— Kevin Dalton (@TheKevinDalton) May 5, 2025
Carwyle made multiple trips from Mississippi to California in pursuit of Aniston. His final, dangerous attempt in May ended with his arrest.
Authorities later declared him mentally unfit to stand trial, and he is currently being held in police custody.
An “interest of justice” hearing has been set for June 26, where Aniston or her attorney, Blair Berk, will have the chance to deliver an impact statement before the judge determines Carwyle’s legal future.
Aniston has long been a fixture in Hollywood, admired not just for her acting but for her grace, style, and resilience.
However, her latest experience underscores the darker side of fame — one that often includes loss of privacy and, in extreme cases, personal danger.
Despite the trauma she’s endured, Aniston’s decision to retreat to Montecito and surround herself with close friends is a testament to her strength and determination to prioritize her wellbeing.
Jennifer Aniston's alleged stalker was shirtless in court #jenniferaniston pic.twitter.com/Y6j8S3wbdI
— Jennifer Aniston Funpage (@jenanistonblog) May 9, 2025
She deserves the chance to feel safe, to relax, and to heal without fear.
As she settles into her summer in the peaceful Montecito hills, her fans are sending love and prayers, hoping that this beautiful and private space becomes her sanctuary in every sense of the word.
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