History of Richard Gere in Timeline

Richard Gere is a prominent American actor who rose to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He gained recognition for his roles in films like 'American Gigolo' solidifying his status as a leading man. He starred in commercially successful and critically acclaimed movies such as 'An Officer and a Gentleman,' 'Pretty Woman,' and 'Primal Fear.' Gere won a Golden Globe Award for his portrayal of Billy Flynn in the musical 'Chicago.' He continues to act in film and remains a notable figure in the entertainment industry.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

1978: Travels to Nepal and Meeting the Dalai Lama

In 1978, Richard Gere, along with Brazilian painter Sylvia Martins, traveled to Nepal. During this trip, he encountered numerous Tibetan monks and lamas. Subsequently, he journeyed to India, where he met the 14th Dalai Lama, leading him to become a practicing Tibetan Buddhist and a dedicated supporter of the Dalai Lama.

1995: President of Jury at Moscow International Film Festival

In 1995, Richard Gere served as the president of the jury at the 19th Moscow International Film Festival.

1999: Ethnic cleansing in Kosovo

In 1999, Serbian military committed ethnic cleansing in Kosovo against the Albanian civilian population.

February 16, 2012: Honored with the George Eastman Award

On February 16, 2012, the George Eastman Museum honored Richard Gere with the George Eastman Award for distinguished contribution to the art of film.

May 17, 2012: Awarded Medal of Gratitude by Albanian President

On May 17, 2012, Richard Gere was awarded the Medal of Gratitude by Albanian President Bamir Topi for his humanitarian work and activism for human rights, particularly for unmasking and making known to the American public the ethnic cleansing in Kosovo in 1999 by the Serbian military against the Albanian civilian population.

February 2023: Diagnosed with Pneumonia

In February 2023, Richard Gere was diagnosed with pneumonia and hospitalized while on a family vacation in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. He has since fully recovered from the illness.