The Unveiling of an Untold Story

When we think of the iconic movie “Pretty Woman,” we immediately envision Richard Gere as the charming Edward, saving Julia Roberts’ character, Vivian, from her troubled life.

But did you know that Gere initially declined the role? It was only through Julia Roberts’ persuasive words that he eventually said yes. Let’s explore the untold stories behind this beloved romantic comedy.

The Unlikely Prince Charming

Richard Gere, known for his roles in “An Officer and a Gentleman” and “Chicago,” may not have seemed like the obvious choice to play Prince Charming in “Pretty Woman.” However, his portrayal of Edward remains etched in our hearts, capturing the essence of a modern-day fairy tale.

Julia Roberts’ Role in Gere’s Casting

Believe it or not, Charles Grodin was a strong contender for the role of Edward before Gere came into the picture.

But it was Julia Roberts who saw the potential in Gere and urged him to embrace the character that would define his career. During a reunion in 2015, the cast shared these previously undisclosed details, giving us a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes magic.

Evolution of “Pretty Woman”

It’s fascinating to discover that “Pretty Woman” didn’t start off as the heartwarming tale we know today. Initially titled “3000,” the story followed the dark journey of a drug-addicted prostitute, leading to a somber ending.

It was the genius of director Garry Marshall and the intervention of Disney that transformed the film into the enchanting fairy tale we all adore.

Garry Marshall: The Shaper of Dreams

Garry Marshall, renowned for his work on films like “Runaway Bride” and “Valentine’s Day,” was the driving force behind the transformation of “Pretty Woman.”

He recognized the undeniable chemistry between Roberts and Gere and was determined to have them as the perfect pair on screen. Despite Gere’s initial hesitations, Marshall persisted and created the magic we now cherish.

Gere’s Struggle with the Role

Richard Gere candidly expressed his initial reluctance to take on the role of Edward. He felt that it was nothing more than putting a suit on a goat, lacking depth and meaning.

But through Marshall’s vision and Roberts’ unwavering belief in him, Gere ultimately embraced the role that would become an integral part of his legacy.

A Fateful Meeting

One pivotal moment changed the course of Richard Gere’s decision. As orchestrated by Garry Marshall, Gere had his first encounter with Julia Roberts. In a simple note, she wrote, “Please say yes.” Those three words sealed Gere’s fate, and he knew that he couldn’t turn down the opportunity to be a part of “Pretty Woman.”

The Enduring Legacy

The success of “Pretty Woman” is undoubtedly attributed to the undeniable chemistry between Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. Their on-screen connection brought the characters’ triumphs and their “happily ever after” to life in a way that resonated with audiences of all ages. Even now, years later, the film continues to touch hearts and create lasting memories.

More Secrets Unveiled

Let’s delve into some more intriguing secrets of “Pretty Woman.” Before Richard Gere was cast, actors like Christopher Reeve, Denzel Washington, and Daniel Day-Lewis were considered for the role of Edward Lewis.

Similarly, Sandra Bullock, Kristin Davis, and Sarah Jessica Parker were offered the role of Vivian but declined. The iconic necklace worn in the film was valued at an astounding $250,000 and had its own security officer. On the other hand, the iconic red coat, a symbol of the movie, was actually found for a modest $30.

Fascinatingly, both Ferrari and Porsche declined the opportunity to have their cars featured in the film. And behind the scenes, tickling Julia Roberts’ feet was the secret to capturing her infectious laughter on camera.

A Timeless Love Story

“Pretty Woman” is a timeless film that reminds us of the power of fate and the perfect pairing of two incredible actors, Julia Roberts and Richard Gere.

Their enduring chemistry transformed a darker narrative into a love story that continues to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide. Whether you’ve seen it once or a hundred times, “Pretty Woman” will always hold a special place in our hearts.