Richard Gere is known for his roles in films like Pretty Woman and An Officer and a Gentleman, but his path took a surprising turn during the filming of The Invisibles (2017). The actor, who once enjoyed the high life of Hollywood, found himself in the heart of New York City, experiencing life as a homeless man for the sake of his role in the movie.
From Movie Star to Homeless
It sounds like the plot of a dramatic film itself—an acclaimed actor, who once lived a life filled with luxury, suddenly finding himself wandering the streets of Manhattan, living in the most difficult conditions. In an effort to authentically portray his character in The Invisibles, Gere spent over 40 minutes experiencing life as a homeless man. He wandered the streets, begged for money, and even slept on benches, all to immerse himself in the struggles of his character, Georges Hammond, a man forced into a homeless shelter due to his financial troubles.
Gere’s dedication to his craft was intense. His appearance and behavior—dressed in old, unkempt clothes and acting out the role of someone in need—drew the attention of passersby, who judged him for his appearance. “I could see people two blocks away judging me based on my clothes,” Gere recalled. “I was very visible to them.” This experience opened his eyes to the harsh realities of life on the streets.
A Life-Changing Experience
Playing Georges Hammond was a turning point for Gere. It changed not just his perspective on homelessness, but also on how society views those who live without a roof over their heads. During the making of The Invisibles, he connected with organizations like the Homeless Coalition, and his views evolved significantly. Gere became an advocate for homeless people, ensuring that he made eye contact with them and treated them with respect whenever he encountered them.
It was during his role in The Invisibles that Gere also began to reflect deeply on the social issues affecting people living in poverty. Through his interaction with shelters and advocacy groups, he was moved to take action outside the movie set. He explained in interviews that the experience fundamentally altered his view on humanity and his role in helping others.
A Voice for Change
Since filming The Invisibles, Richard Gere has used his platform to bring attention to the struggles of the homeless. At the 2025 Goya Awards, he was honored for his contributions to humanitarian work. As he took the stage at the Palacio de Congresos in Granada, he highlighted the work of NGOs dedicated to building a more compassionate and inclusive world. He specifically called attention to Open Arms, an organization that protects vulnerable lives and offers support to those in dire situations.
Gere’s journey from playing a homeless character to becoming a passionate advocate for homeless rights is a poignant reminder that we never truly know the full story of a person’s life unless we walk in their shoes—sometimes, literally. The actor’s willingness to immerse himself in the harsh reality of living on the streets for a film role was more than just an acting decision—it was a powerful personal transformation.
