Anderson Cooper Recounts Impact of Shirtless Richard Gere Encounter on His s–ual Orientation

During a lively conversation with his close pal Andy Cohen on the popular Radio Andy podcast, Anderson Cooper, the renowned news anchor and TV personality, shared a poignant childhood memory that played a pivotal role in shaping his s–ual identity.

Reflecting on his affluent upbringing as a member of the Vanderbilt family, Cooper reminisced about being surrounded by his mother Gloria Vanderbilt's eclectic circle of friends, which included prominent queer figures like Truman Capote and Gore Vidal.

A significant moment occurred when a friend of Vanderbilt, the photographer Paul Jasmine, along with his partner, treated an 11-year-old Cooper to a transformative theater experience.

The young Cooper was taken to see the Broadway production of “Bent,” starring the charismatic Richard Gere.

The play, set in a concentration camp and centered around a gay couple, opened Cooper's eyes to a world he had yet to explore.

Recalling the impactful moment, Cooper described the opening scene as profoundly resonant, particularly given the allure of Gere's on-screen presence during that era, marked by notable films like “Looking for Mr. Goodbar” and “American Gigolo.”

Transported back to that moment in time, Cooper vividly remembered being captivated by Gere's striking beauty and the raw sensuality portrayed on stage.

In a candid revelation to Cohen, Cooper admitted that witnessing Gere shirtless in his dressing room left him speechless, unable to tear his gaze away from the actor's magnetic charm.

Despite his initial awe-induced silence, Cooper later mustered the courage to approach Gere for an autograph, a cherished memento that he still holds dear today.

Years later, during an interview with Gere, Cooper seized the opportunity to share the anecdote, showcasing the enduring impact of that fateful encounter.

Gere, amused by the story, added a touch of levity to the nostalgic recollection.

Cooper's candid retelling of this formative experience sheds light on the complex journey of self-discovery and acceptance that many individuals navigate.

As Cooper delved into the details of his encounter with Gere, it became evident that the actor's presence served as a catalyst for an introspective realization that resonated deeply with the young Cooper.

This poignant narrative underscores the profound influence that cultural representations and personal interactions can have on an individual's understanding of their own identity.

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