Gere Didn’t Want the Job at First
Even though Richard Gere was offered the role, he later admitted he wasn’t sure if he should take it. He revealed in an interview with the BBC that it was his agent who pushed for it much more than himself, saying that he felt “resistant” to the role as he hadn’t enjoyed the stage show very much.
Richard Gere and Catherine Zeta-Jones in ‘Chicago’ 2002. Photo by Moviestore Collection / Shutterstock
In the end, Gere decided that he’d at least have some fun on the production, especially after taking part in a very serious and intense movie, Unfaithful. So he decided to go along with his agent’s wishes. Clearly, we can say he made the right call as he won a Golden Globe for the role and received widespread acclaim.