Hollywood legend Richard Gere is making waves once again, but this time it’s not on the silver screen—it’s through a profound documentary that’s set to inspire millions. At 76, the Pretty Woman star appeared on NBC’s TODAY show on October 16, 2025, to promote Wisdom of Happiness, a film delving into the timeless teachings of his longtime friend and spiritual mentor, the Dalai Lama. In a world gripped by chaos, Gere’s passionate plea for compassion couldn’t come at a better time. “We’re all searching for inner peace,” Gere shared during the interview, his eyes lighting up with genuine warmth. This isn’t just another celeb project; it’s a personal mission for Gere, who’s been a devout Buddhist and advocate for Tibetan rights for decades. If you’re a fan of uplifting stories that blend celebrity glamour with real-world impact, buckle up—this is the hook you didn’t know you needed.
The Documentary That Could Change Everything
In Wisdom of Happiness, Gere takes viewers on an intimate journey through the Dalai Lama’s insights on fostering joy and empathy in turbulent times. Directed with a focus on authenticity, the film features candid conversations, stunning visuals from Tibet, and contributions from notable figures like Diane Keaton, whom Gere praised as “sweet, gentle, and real” on the TODAY show. Why now? With global conflicts raging and mental health crises on the rise, Gere believes the Dalai Lama’s message is more urgent than ever. “He’s like a father to me,” Gere confessed, recalling how their friendship began in the 1980s during his early activism days.
Gere’s involvement isn’t superficial. As president of the International Campaign for Tibet, he’s long championed the cause, even facing backlash from China for his outspoken views. The documentary, slated for a U.S. release soon, aims to bridge Eastern philosophy with Western audiences. Early reviews are glowing, with critics calling it “a beacon of hope in dark times.” For SEO-savvy readers searching for “Richard Gere Dalai Lama documentary,” this film positions Gere not just as an actor, but as a global humanitarian. Imagine blending the charm of An Officer and a Gentleman with the depth of spiritual enlightenment— that’s Wisdom of Happiness in a nutshell.
Expanding on the project’s origins, Gere revealed in interviews that the idea sparked during a 2024 visit to the Dalai Lama in India. Amid personal milestones, including his family’s relocation, Gere found solace in these teachings. The film includes rare footage of the Dalai Lama discussing topics like forgiveness and mindfulness, interspersed with Gere’s own reflections on Hollywood’s fleeting fame. “Fame is an illusion,” he quipped, drawing from his 50-year career that includes Oscar-nominated roles in Chicago and Primal Fear. This documentary isn’t about box office numbers; it’s about sparking conversations on mental wellness, a hot topic in celebrity news today.
Family First: From Madrid Mansions to U.S. Homecoming?
Shifting gears from spiritual pursuits, Richard Gere’s family life has been a source of intrigue for fans. Married to Spanish publicist Alejandra Silva since 2018, the couple shares two young sons: Alexander, 6, and James, 5. Add Gere’s 25-year-old son Homer from his previous marriage to Carey Lowell, and you’ve got a blended family that’s as dynamic as Gere’s filmography.
In late September 2025, Silva offered a rare glimpse into their lavish $12.7 million Madrid home via social media, showcasing elegant interiors and family moments that scream “celebrity bliss.” The move to Spain at the end of 2024 was a bold one, allowing the family to immerse in European culture while escaping Hollywood’s hustle. “It’s been a beautiful chapter,” Silva posted, hinting at quality time away from the paparazzi.
But hold on—rumors of a return to the U.S. are swirling. Back in April 2025, Silva confirmed plans to head stateside after their six-month Spanish sojourn. While details remain under wraps, sources suggest it’s for the kids’ education and Gere’s upcoming projects. A sweet family photo from May 2025, featuring the brood in casual attire, melted hearts online, racking up thousands of likes. For those Googling “Richard Gere family update,” this potential move signals a new era, perhaps closer to Gere’s roots in New York.
Gere’s romance with Silva, 33 years his junior, has been tabloid fodder since they met in 2014. Their wedding was a low-key affair in Spain, followed by a Buddhist blessing. “She’s my rock,” Gere has said, crediting her for grounding him amid fame’s pressures. Their story is a modern fairy tale, blending Hollywood royalty with international flair—perfect for our readers obsessed with celeb love lives.
Resurfacing Controversies: Gere’s Unfiltered Take on Global Politics
No Richard Gere story is complete without his activism, and recently, an August 2025 clip has gone viral again. In it, Gere didn’t mince words about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling for his imprisonment on corruption charges and accusing him of exacerbating the Gaza conflict. “This has to end,” Gere stated emphatically, aligning with his history of bold stances.
This isn’t new for Gere, who’s been blacklisted in China for supporting Tibet and has protested at the Oscars. His comments, recirculating on social media this week, have sparked debates across platforms. Supporters hail him as a voice for the voiceless, while critics accuse him of overstepping. In the context of “Richard Gere political views,” this resurgence highlights how celebs influence discourse on international issues.
Gere’s activism traces back to the 1970s, influenced by his Quaker upbringing. He’s donated millions to causes like AIDS research and refugee aid, earning him the Marian Anderson Award in 2019. Amid today’s polarized world, his words resonate, especially with younger audiences seeking authentic celeb advocacy.
A Timeless Icon’s Next Chapter
As Gere promotes Wisdom of Happiness, fans wonder what’s next. Selective with roles, his last major appearance was in the 2023 series The Agency, but whispers of a memoir or more docs abound. At 76, he’s aging gracefully, prioritizing health through yoga and meditation—tips he’s shared in past interviews.
For music and TV buffs, Gere’s versatility shines: from drumming in Chicago to guest spots on shows like The Simpsons. His love life, marked by marriages to Cindy Crawford and Lowell, adds layers to his persona, making him a staple in drama-filled celeb news.
In summary, Richard Gere’s 2025 comeback is a blend of heart, controversy, and inspiration. Whether it’s the Dalai Lama’s wisdom, family escapades in Spain, or fiery political takes, Gere proves age is just a number.
Inside the Documentary: Gere’s Passion Project with the Dalai Lama
Wisdom of Happiness isn’t your typical celeb vanity project; it’s a 90-minute deep dive into life, liberty, and the pursuit of joy, straight from the Dalai Lama himself. Executive produced by Gere and Oren Moverman, the film features the spiritual icon speaking directly to the camera, sharing insights on fostering inner peace amid turmoil. Gere, a devout Buddhist since the 1970s, described the Dalai Lama as a “father figure” during his TODAY interview, revealing how their bond began during activism trips to India.
The buzz kicked off with a special theatrical event on October 16, 2025, following a star-studded screening at New York’s 92NY on October 11. Gere was joined by luminaries like Ann Curry, Gabby Bernstein, and Jerome Foster II for discussions on compassion’s role in modern society. “This film is about heart-to-heart connections,” Gere emphasized, highlighting segments where the Dalai Lama addresses global issues with his signature humor and wisdom. Early screenings have earned rave reviews, with critics praising its “timely relevance” in a post-pandemic world.
For fans searching “Richard Gere Dalai Lama documentary,” this project underscores Gere’s shift from blockbuster roles to humanitarian efforts. Remember his Oscar-nominated turn in Chicago? Or the romantic charm in An Officer and a Gentleman? Gere’s career, spanning over five decades, has grossed billions, but he credits Buddhism for keeping him grounded. “Fame is fleeting; compassion endures,” he quipped in a recent chat on The View, where he appeared alongside Michael J. Fox on October 11, 2025. The documentary, released via Abramorama and partners like Theorem Media, aims to inspire viewers to embrace mindfulness—perfect fodder for today’s wellness-obsessed culture.
Gere’s involvement goes beyond production; he’s been hands-on in promotion, attending events in New York City as recently as October 14. Photos from these appearances show him looking dapper and energized, a testament to his yoga and meditation routine. As president of the International Campaign for Tibet, Gere has faced bans in China for his advocacy, but that hasn’t deterred him. This film, he says, is his way of amplifying the Dalai Lama’s voice globally.
Family Life in the Spotlight: From U.S. Roots to Spanish Serenity
Amid the documentary hype, Richard Gere’s family dynamics are stealing some thunder. Married to Spanish publicist Alejandra Silva, 42, since 2018, the couple recently relocated from the U.S. to Madrid, embracing a quieter life in her homeland. Silva, in a candid admission earlier this year, shared that the move has been transformative, allowing their young sons—Alexander, 6, and James, 5—to thrive in a new cultural setting.
A dazzling September 29, 2025, photo of the pair cuddling for Elle magazine went viral, showcasing their 34-year age gap as a non-issue in their loving bond. “We’re thriving,” Silva posted on Instagram, offering glimpses into their $12.7 million Madrid mansion, complete with sun-drenched patios and family play areas. Gere, who shares 25-year-old son Homer James Jigme Gere with ex-wife Carey Lowell, has blended his family seamlessly, often crediting Silva as his “rock.”
Whispers of a potential U.S. return surfaced in April 2025, with Silva hinting at family considerations like education. For now, Spain suits them, providing a break from Hollywood’s glare. “It’s about balance,” Gere told reporters, echoing themes from his documentary. Fans digging into “Richard Gere wife and kids 2025” will find a story of enduring love— they met in 2014 at a Positano hotel Silva managed, leading to a whirlwind romance and Indian wedding blessed by Tibetan monks.
Homer, now navigating his own path, has occasionally sparked curiosity. Recent reports delve into his low-key life, avoiding the spotlight despite his famous dad. Gere’s paternal side shines through, as he balances promo tours with family time, proving celebs can have it all.
Activism and Legacy: Gere’s Bold Voice Resonates
Gere’s news cycle wouldn’t be complete without his activism. While promoting Wisdom of Happiness, he’s reiterated calls for global compassion, subtly nodding to past controversies like his 1993 Oscars speech on Tibet. Though no fresh political bombshells in October 2025, his legacy as an advocate for human rights—from AIDS awareness to refugee support—remains strong.
Financially, Gere’s savvy has built a net worth estimated at $120-130 million as of October 2025. From real estate flips (like his $10 million New York sale) to film residuals, he’s a shrewd businessman. Yet, he donates generously, aligning with the documentary’s ethos.
What’s Next for the Timeless Star?
As Wisdom of Happiness rolls out, speculation swirls about Gere’s future projects. A memoir? More docs? Or a return to acting in selective roles like 2023’s The Agency? At 76, he’s selective, prioritizing health and family.
For CELEB NEWS TODAY readers craving Hollywood scoops, international intrigue, and love stories, Gere’s 2025 narrative is gold. From spiritual awakenings to family adventures, he’s redefining aging in Tinseltown. Stay locked in for updates—what’s your favorite Gere moment? Sound off below!