The 1990 romantic comedy Pretty Woman remains one of Hollywood’s most beloved films, but few know that its male lead, Richard Gere, initially hesitated to take on the iconic role of Edward Lewis. This article delves deep into the reasons behind Gere’s initial reluctance, the creative process that ultimately won him over, and the broader impact of his decision on the film’s legacy.
Richard Gere’s hesitation to accept the role of Edward Lewis was rooted in his struggle to connect with the character. Gere, known for his more intense dramatic roles in films like American Gigolo and An Officer and a Gentleman, reportedly found Edward Lewis—a wealthy but emotionally aloof corporate raider—difficult to relate to on a personal and professional level.
Edward is a character steeped in contradictions: a ruthless businessman who discovers his softer, more vulnerable side through an unlikely romance with Vivian Ward, played by Julia Roberts. According to industry insiders, Gere questioned whether the story’s tone and his character’s journey aligned with his artistic sensibilities.
Julia Roberts’ Role in Changing Gere’s Mind
One of the pivotal moments that convinced Gere to sign on was a meeting with Julia Roberts. As the story goes, director Garry Marshall orchestrated a casual sit-down between the two stars to gauge their chemistry. During this meeting, Roberts reportedly passed Gere a note that read, “Please say yes.” This simple yet heartfelt gesture, combined with the undeniable connection between the two actors, played a significant role in Gere’s decision.
Marshall himself later admitted that the film’s success hinged on the chemistry between Gere and Roberts, a factor that would have been difficult to replicate with another leading man.
Richard Gere said he initially “didn’t understand” his role as Edward Lewis, seeing the character as “just a suit.” (Buena Vista/Getty Images)
A Risky Role: How Gere’s Decision Redefined His Career
Richard Gere’s eventual agreement to star in Pretty Woman marked a significant departure from his typical roles at the time. The romantic comedy genre was a new frontier for the actor, who had built his career on intense, brooding characters.
Edward Lewis, however, required Gere to balance charm, vulnerability, and a touch of arrogance—qualities that ultimately showcased his versatility as an actor. The role also allowed Gere to bring depth to a character who, on paper, could have been perceived as one-dimensional.
Gere’s performance was widely praised, and his portrayal of Edward Lewis became an archetype for the “redeemable millionaire” in romantic comedies. The film’s massive box-office success further solidified Gere’s status as a leading man in Hollywood.
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The Legacy of Pretty Woman and Gere’s Enduring Impact
Pretty Woman not only catapulted Julia Roberts to superstardom but also revitalized Richard Gere’s career. The film grossed over $460 million worldwide, becoming one of the highest-grossing romantic comedies of all time. Its cultural impact has endured for decades, with iconic scenes, such as the shopping spree montage and the grand romantic gesture at the film’s conclusion, cemented in pop culture history.
Gere’s nuanced performance contributed significantly to the film’s appeal, adding layers to a storyline that could have easily fallen into cliché territory. By taking a chance on Pretty Woman, Gere helped create a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the globe.
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The “What If” Factor: Imagining Pretty Woman Without Gere
It’s intriguing to consider how Pretty Woman might have fared with a different actor in the role of Edward Lewis. Other leading men reportedly considered for the part included Christopher Reeve and Al Pacino. While both are immensely talented, the unique blend of gravitas and charm that Gere brought to the role was arguably irreplaceable.
Without Gere, the film might have taken on a different tone, potentially leaning more heavily into drama or losing the balance that made it a box-office phenomenon.
Richard Gere shared that he is “so proud” of “Pretty Woman” and the “work process that we did to create that movie.” (Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)
Conclusion: The Power of Saying Yes
Richard Gere’s journey to accepting the role of Edward Lewis exemplifies the importance of taking creative risks. His initial hesitation paved the way for a deeper exploration of the character, resulting in a performance that continues to define his career.
Through a combination of stellar casting, undeniable chemistry, and a leap of faith, Pretty Woman became an enduring masterpiece in romantic comedy. Gere’s decision to embrace the challenge not only elevated the film but also showcased the transformative power of storytelling in Hollywood.
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