Richard Gere fondly remembers his co-star Louis Gossett Jr. as an actor with “a heart of gold,” reflecting on their time together filming the iconic romantic drama “An Officer and a Gentleman.” Gere, who portrayed Zack Mayo, the film’s lead protagonist, recalls Gossett Jr.’s unwavering dedication to his role as the tough yet compassionate drill sergeant, Emil Foley.
In a statement shared by Deadline, Gere reminisces about Gossett Jr.’s commitment to his character, noting that he remained in character both on and off the set, embodying the drill sergeant persona 24/7. Gossett Jr.’s commanding presence and compelling performance drove every scene he appeared in, leaving a lasting impression on his fellow cast members.
Gossett Jr.’s portrayal of Sgt. Foley earned him the distinction of becoming the first Black man to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. His remarkable achievement was particularly noteworthy in a year marked by stiff competition, with notable nominees such as James Mason, John Lithgow, Charles Durning, and Robert Preston.
Richard Gere (Lorimar Productions)
Director Taylor Hackford, who guided Gossett Jr. in his Oscar-winning role, also paid tribute to the actor’s groundbreaking performance. Hackford lauds Gossett Jr.’s portrayal of Sgt. Foley, highlights the significance of his character as one of the first Black figures in American cinema to wield absolute authority over white characters.
Despite varying opinions on where “An Officer and a Gentleman” ranks among Richard Gere’s filmography, there’s unanimous recognition of Gossett Jr.’s contribution to the film’s success. The classic romantic drama garnered both critical acclaim and box office success, earning over $129 million worldwide against a modest production budget of $6 million.
In 1982, “An Officer and a Gentleman” stood tall among the year’s top-grossing films, a testament to its enduring popularity and cultural impact. Alongside cinematic giants like “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “Rocky III,” and “On Golden Pond,” the film solidified its place as a beloved classic in the hearts of audiences worldwide.
