Happy 71st Birthday Richard Gere

Aug 31, 2020

Hollywood icon Richard Gere celebrates his 71st birthday today. The actor, best known for his roles in films such as Pretty Woman and Primal Fear, amongst many others, is one of the world's best-loved movie stars.

We journey through his life on his special day.

Richard Tiffany Gere was born in Philadelphia on August 31, 1967. After growing up with a love for the arts, Gere won a gymnastics scholarship to study philosophy at the University of Massachusetts, but he left college after only two years to pursue an acting career, reports IMDb.

His first undertaking was the lead in the London production of the rock musical "Grease" in 1973. His breakthrough role came when he played the protagonist in American Gigolo in 1980, giving him true star status.

Aside from his A-list roles in films such An Officer and a Gentleman and family classic Runaway Bride, he is also an avid humanitarian. He became a Buddhist in the mid-1970s and visited many refugee camps. He also traveled to Honduras, Nicaragua, and El Salvador during wars and political unrest reports Britannica. His charitable works also includes care for those suffering from HIV/AIDS.

He is married to Spanish activist Alejandra Silva, 37, his third wife, with whom he has two sons. He also has one son from his previous marriage.

Known for playing "genteel characters," Gere has been nominated multiple times for his acting. In 2003, he won a Golden Globe for his role in Chicago. Although Gere is turning 71, he is showing no signs of slowing down as he continues to appear on our screens, and continues to maintain his 'heartthrob' status!

Join us in wishing Richard Gere a very happy birthday, and let all the Mr. Gere fans in your life know about his big day!