Gere’s Initial Reluctance
When the casting for the iconic romantic comedy "Pretty Woman" was underway, Richard Gere was far from convinced about playing the lead role of Edward Lewis. He rejected the part multiple times, famously remarking that the role felt so empty that "you could put a suit on a goat and it would work".
Julia Roberts' Persuasive Plea
The turning point came when Julia Roberts, who was already cast as Vivian, intervened personally. During an orchestrated meeting by the film’s director Garry Marshall, Roberts and Gere were left alone to connect. In a heartfelt moment, Roberts passed Gere a note that simply read, "Please say yes". This genuine and emotional appeal was enough to convince Gere to take on the role, a decision that would go on to define his career.
Chemistry on and off the Screen
The palpable chemistry between Roberts and Gere was not only evident on screen but also played a crucial role behind the scenes. Garry Marshall, known for his ability to craft heartwarming narratives, recognized this chemistry immediately. He arranged several informal meetings between the two to build a genuine rapport, which seamlessly translated into their performances.
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