It’s nearly impossible to imagine anyone other than Richard Gere playing Edward Lewis, the smooth-talking businessman in the 1990 romantic classic Pretty Woman. But, surprisingly, Gere almost didn’t take the role, initially rejecting the film because he didn’t connect with the character.
In a candid chat on The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast, the now 75-year-old actor admitted that the movie didn’t grab his attention at first. He felt his role lacked depth and dismissed Edward as “just a suit.” Gere shared, “There was no character. So, I read this thing, and I said, ‘It’s not for me.’” He even felt uneasy about meeting director Garry Marshall, as he’d already decided the film wasn’t for him.
However, things took a turn when Marshall suggested they collaborate to flesh out Edward’s character. Gere recalled the director’s words: “Let’s you and me find it.” Together, they worked to shape Edward into someone more dynamic and compelling, blending charm, heart, and sex appeal into the role.
What truly sealed the deal, though, was Julia Roberts. By the time Gere came on board, Roberts had already been cast as Vivian Ward, the spirited sex worker at the heart of the story. Marshall orchestrated a meeting between the two, and within 45 minutes, he called Gere to ask what he thought of Roberts. Gere responded enthusiastically, “She’s adorable. She’s great.”
During that meeting, Roberts pulled a power move that changed everything. She scribbled “Please say yes” on a Post-It note and slid it across the table to Gere. Faced with such charm, Gere couldn’t say no.
Looking back, Gere is nothing but grateful for saying yes. The film not only catapulted him and Roberts to Hollywood stardom but also allowed him to explore diverse roles afterward. Roberts earned a Golden Globe for her performance, and their chemistry was so undeniable that they reunited for another Garry Marshall rom-com, Runaway Bride, in 1999.
Pretty Woman has since become a beloved classic, with its mix of humor, romance, and heart resonating with audiences across generations. Despite its edgy premise, it’s viewed as a family film, a notion that still amuses Gere. When journalist Tania Hussain told him she first watched the movie at age five, Gere laughed, exclaiming, “You were too young! It was about a hooker!”
The cast and crew had no idea the film would embed itself into pop culture as it has. Gere reflected on its enduring appeal, marveling at how it became “part of almost everyone’s consciousness.” Decades later, Edward and Vivian’s unlikely love story continues to captivate audiences, proving that sometimes, taking a chance on the unexpected pays off in ways no one could imagine.