Richard Gere Upset Over Being Labeled a “s=x Symbol” On Live TV

In a recent revelation by former British talk show host Michael Aspel, it was disclosed that renowned actor Richard Gere was deeply displeased with being referred to as a “s=x symbol.”

The incident occurred during a live interview on Aspel's show in 1989 where Gere made his feelings clear about this particular designation.

The interview with Gere progressed smoothly until the end of the program when Aspel inadvertently used the term “s=x symbol” while summarizing Gere's accomplishments.

This momentary slip led to an unexpected turn of events as Gere expressed his strong disapproval towards the label, leaving Aspel and his team taken aback.

Recalling the aftermath of the interview, Aspel shared that Gere's agent contacted them post-show, threatening legal action if the reference to Gere as a s=x symbol was not retracted.

Gere's seriousness about this matter stemmed from his dedication to various humanitarian causes, particularly his advocacy for the people of Tibet.

Throughout the 1980s, Gere had been actively involved in supporting the Tibetan community, notably co-founding the Tibet House US in 1987.

Apart from his philanthropic endeavors, Gere had also solidified his presence in Hollywood through roles in well-known films like An Officer And A Gentleman, Beyond The Limit, and The Cotton Club.

Reflecting on his perceived status as a s=x symbol in a later interview in 2006, Gere exhibited a more relaxed attitude towards the title, acknowledging his age and the transient nature of such labels.

He humorously remarked, “I'm 57 years old.

Look, how much longer can I be a s=x symbol?

Let's be realistic about this,” as reported by The Evening Standard.

In addition to Gere, Aspel's show boasted an impressive lineup of celebrity guests over the years, including luminaries such as Barbara Streisand, Jack Nicholson, Paul McCartney, and Bing Crosby.

The show initially aired in 1984 and concluded in 1993, but Aspel is set to make a special return with a one-off reboot scheduled for October 8, 2023.