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How Old Was Richard Gere |
Discover how old Richard Gere was in Pretty Woman, why his age mattered in the film, and how it shaped his chemistry with Julia Roberts.
When people talk about iconic romantic comedies, Pretty Woman (1990) often tops the list. The chemistry between Richard Gere and Julia Roberts captivated audiences and turned the film into a timeless classic. But one question fans still ask more than 30 years later is simple: how old was Richard Gere in Pretty Woman?
Richard Gere’s Age in Pretty Woman
Richard Gere was 40 years old when Pretty Woman was released in March 1990. Born on August 31, 1949, Gere had already established himself as a leading man in Hollywood before stepping into the role of Edward Lewis, the wealthy businessman who falls in love with Vivian Ward, played by Julia Roberts.
At the time, Julia Roberts was only 21 years old, which created a noticeable age gap between the stars. Despite this, their on-screen chemistry worked so well that the film became one of the most beloved romantic comedies of all time.
Why Richard Gere’s Age Mattered in the Film
Gere’s age wasn’t just a number—it added depth to his role. His character, Edward Lewis, was a mature, successful businessman navigating a fast-paced corporate world. The casting directors likely chose Gere because his experience and sophistication fit the part perfectly.
By contrast, Julia Roberts brought youthful energy and vulnerability to Vivian. The combination of Gere’s maturity and Roberts’ youthful charm helped balance the story and made the romance both believable and engaging.
Richard Gere’s Career Before Pretty Woman
By the time he appeared in Pretty Woman, Gere was already a household name. Some of his notable earlier works included:
- American Gigolo (1980)
- An Officer and a Gentleman (1982)
- The Cotton Club (1984)
These roles built his reputation as a charismatic leading man. So, when Gere took on Pretty Woman at age 40, he brought both star power and experience that helped the film resonate with audiences worldwide.
For more details on his career timeline, you can check Gere’s official IMDb page.
Julia Roberts and the Age Gap
Julia Roberts was only 21 during the filming, making her almost two decades younger than Gere. This age difference was a talking point even then, but it didn’t stop the movie from becoming a box office hit. In fact, Roberts’ performance won her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress and an Academy Award nomination, cementing her as America’s sweetheart.
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| Photo of Richard Gere and Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman 1990 |
Interestingly, the age gap may have actually contributed to the dynamic of the story. Vivian was portrayed as a young woman learning about love and self-worth, while Edward was shown as an older man rethinking his life choices.
Pretty Woman’s Success and Legacy
Pretty Woman grossed over $463 million worldwide, making it one of the most successful romantic comedies ever. Gere’s age and screen presence helped elevate the film beyond a typical rom-com. His portrayal of Edward Lewis showed maturity, charm, and vulnerability, which complemented Roberts’ youthful optimism.
The movie’s success also led to lasting pop culture references. Even in 2025, lines from the film, like “Big mistake. Big. Huge!” remain widely quoted. You can revisit iconic scenes through the official trailer on YouTube.
Richard Gere After Pretty Woman
After Pretty Woman, Gere continued to shine in Hollywood with movies such as:
- Primal Fear (1996)
- Runaway Bride (1999) — also with Julia Roberts
- Chicago (2002), which earned him a Golden Globe
His career longevity proves that age never limited his ability to captivate audiences. Even in his 70s, Gere continues to make appearances in films and philanthropic causes, solidifying his legacy beyond Pretty Woman.
Are you a fan of timeless Hollywood classics? Rewatch Pretty Woman today on Disney+ or other streaming platforms to experience Richard Gere’s unforgettable performance at 40.
So, how old was Richard Gere in Pretty Woman? He was 40 years old, bringing a mix of charm, maturity, and sophistication to his role as Edward Lewis. Paired with a young Julia Roberts, Gere helped create one of cinema’s most iconic love stories.
Whether you’re rewatching the movie for nostalgia or exploring it for the first time, remember that Gere’s age at the time wasn’t just trivia—it was a key part of what made the film so memorable.
Don’t just read about it—stream Pretty Woman today and relive the magic.
