Richard Gere, born on August 31, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has established himself as a prominent figure in Hollywood over several decades. As of 2025, at the age of 75, his net worth is estimated to be around $120 million.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Gere’s journey into the arts began during his high school years, where he showcased talent in music and gymnastics. He briefly attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst on a gymnastics scholarship, majoring in philosophy, but left to pursue acting. His early career saw him performing in theater productions, with a notable role in the London stage version of “Grease” in 1973.
Rise to Stardom
The late 1970s and early 1980s marked Gere’s ascent in Hollywood. He gained attention with roles in “Looking for Mr. Goodbar” (1977) and “Days of Heaven” (1978). His portrayal in “American Gigolo” (1980) solidified his status as a leading man and sex symbol. This success was further amplified by performances in “An Officer and a Gentleman” (1982) and the iconic “Pretty Woman” (1990), where he starred alongside Julia Roberts.
Diverse Roles and Accolades
Throughout his career, Gere demonstrated versatility, taking on a range of characters. In “Primal Fear” (1996), he played a defense attorney, while “Chicago” (2002) showcased his musical talents, earning him a Golden Globe Award. His role in “Arbitrage” (2012) was also critically acclaimed, highlighting his ability to portray complex characters.
Personal Life and Family
Gere’s personal life has seen him married three times. His first marriage was to supermodel Cindy Crawford from 1991 to 1995. He later married actress Carey Lowell in 2002, with whom he has a son, Homer James Jigme Gere, born in 2000. The couple divorced in 2016. In 2018, Gere married Spanish publicist Alejandra Silva, and they have two sons together: Alexander, born in 2019, and another son born in 2020.
Real Estate Ventures
Gere’s real estate investments have been significant. In 2005, he purchased Strongheart Manor in Sag Harbor, New York, for $6.9 million. After renovations, he sold the property to TV host Matt Lauer for $36.5 million in 2016. In 2022, he acquired a 31.8-acre estate in New Canaan, Connecticut, from musician Paul Simon for $10.8 million. He sold this property in 2024 for $10.75 million as he prepared to relocate to Spain with his family.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Beyond acting, Gere is known for his humanitarian efforts. A practicing Buddhist, he has been a vocal advocate for Tibetan rights and co-founded Tibet House US. He also established the Gere Foundation, supporting various health, education, and human rights initiatives. His commitment to these causes has been a significant aspect of his life and work.
Recent Developments
In 2024, Gere announced plans to move to Spain with his wife, Alejandra Silva, to be closer to her family and culture. He expressed admiration for the Spanish way of life and looked forward to this new chapter. The family has settled in Madrid, embracing the local culture and lifestyle.
