Few actors are as enchanting to look at or as mesmerizing on a stage or screen as Richard Gere. Through it all, he has been an unapologetic advocate. Richard Gere rose to fame starring opposite Julia Roberts as Edward, a handsome, heartless mogul in the original romcom Pretty Woman. His career is a deep wellspring of unforgettable performances, historic milestones, and acclaimed accomplishments. In recent years, he reprised his role as Monk in the 2023 Peacock film Mr. Monk's Last Case: A Monk Movie, demonstrating his enduring appeal and versatility as an actor. Although Gere has had phenomenal success in front of the camera, he has made waves as a behind-the-scenes power player. He was a founding member of the Screen Actors Guild and president of Actors’ Equity for four terms.
The Iconic Role in Pretty Woman
In Pretty Woman, Richard Gere’s character Edward Lewis is a hyper-organized millionaire entrepreneur whose life revolves around all work and no play. Everything changes when he encounters a spirited prostitute named Vivian Ward, played by Julia Roberts. The film, which debuted in 1990, quickly became a classic, thanks in large part to the fiery chemistry between leading actors Gere and Roberts. Jason Alexander, who played Philip Stuckey in the film, remarked on this chemistry, stating:
"It seemed like Julia had a little crush on Richard, which makes sense. I had a little crush on Richard. Richard's very hard to not have a little crush on."
Gere’s performance as Edward was the ideal combination of elegant charm and tortured soul. This role helped make him one of the most sought-after leading men in Hollywood. Beyond that, it helped launch Pretty Woman to all-time classic status within the romantic comedy genre.
Career Highlights and Varied Roles
Richard Gere’s decades-long career includes notable performances in an impressive number of varied roles that showcase his talents both as an actor and as a humanitarian. Prior to appearing in Pretty Woman, he proved his chops in American Gigolo. His breakout role in the comedy-drama hardened his status as a Hollywood heartthrob. His creative partnership with Julia Roberts in this film paved the way for their subsequent success in Pretty Woman.
Gere's filmography includes Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, showcasing his ability to adapt to different genres and characters. In addition to making a name for himself with his romantic protagonists, Gere has proven his ability to play characters in more adrenaline-filled situations too.
Curiously enough, pinging the same nostalgia centers, Gere was once cast as Dr. Reed Richards in an unreleased Fantastic Four film. Even though this film never made it to theaters, it provides even more depth to Gere’s remarkable and varied acting career.
Personal Life and Contributions to the Industry
Aside from his arts and philanthropy activities, Richard Gere’s personal life has attracted plenty of scandalous headlines. He married actress Carey Lowell in 2002, and they remained together until 2016. Prior to that, he was married to supermodel Cindy Crawford from 1992 to 1995, Acacia Surya Irfan from 1975 to 1976, and filmmaker Penny Marshall in the early ’90s. These connections have long defined Gere’s public image, in addition to his artistic achievements.
Gere’s impact on entertainment reaches far beyond his work in front of the camera. As a founding member of the Screen Actors Guild, he played a pivotal role in advocating for actors' rights and improving working conditions within the industry. His example as a four time president of Actors’ Equity seals his legacy of advocacy for his fellow actors.
A Respected Figure On and Off the Screen
Richard Gere’s influence extends far beyond the silver screen. His influence as a leader within the acting community and his dedication to various humanitarian causes have earned him respect both within and outside Hollywood. Gere has never ceased growing as an actor through the decades. Even in death, his life’s work is cherished and felt by audiences all across the world.
Pretty Woman’s enduring legacy, and the changes that have happened since. There’s no better moment to consider Richard Gere’s profound impact on film art and culture. He has played incredible ground-breaking roles and achieved personal goals along his remarkable path. It serves as an inspiration to hundreds of thousands of hopeful actors and movie makers.
