Richard Gere's unexpected appearance on the Today show left Savannah Guthrie a bit flustered, sparking a playful and memorable moment! On Thursday, October 16th, the legendary actor brought his charm and wit to the morning show, creating a buzz that had everyone talking. Gere, at 76 years old, was there to promote his new project with the Dalai Lama, Wisdom of Happiness, where he serves as an executive producer. But before the official interview, he decided to spice things up a bit.
The Pop Start segment, featuring Jenna Bush Hager, Dylan Dreyer, Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, and Carson Daly, was in full swing when Gere decided to make an impromptu appearance.
"It's hard for Savannah to keep her concentration right now," Melvin playfully teased his co-anchor.
Gere made his way over, settling in close to a clearly surprised Guthrie. "Oh, look, come sit down," Guthrie responded, her reaction a mix of surprise and delight. "Hi, Richard Gere."
Gere, known for his playful nature, couldn't resist adding to the fun. He cheekily remarked that the show often shared teases that "really embarrass" him. Guthrie, however, was the one in the spotlight this time.
"Now I'm like, 'Oh, is it getting hot in here?'" Guthrie quipped, fanning herself, capturing the lighthearted mood perfectly.
Gere didn't stop there, playfully teasing Guthrie for having to leave before his interview. Guthrie revealed she was heading to Tucson, Arizona, for a Today segment.
"Did you come here for her? For Savannah?" Bush Hager asked Gere.
"Yes! Yes! I thought well at least I'm going to come over and sit with her for a second before she leaves for Tucson," Gere replied, staying by Guthrie's side for the rest of the segment.
But here's where it gets controversial... Gere's playful antics highlighted the fun dynamic between the two, but it also raised questions about the boundaries of celebrity interactions on live television. Was it all in good fun, or did it cross a line?
Guthrie's flight was delayed, allowing her to stay for the interview alongside Melvin. Gere, never missing an opportunity for a joke, quipped, "She hasn’t seen the film, but she’s also leaving for Tucson."
Melvin added, "She stuck around just for you!"
"She put off the flight to Tucson!" Gere responded, after Guthrie clarified the delay. He then encouraged her to "call me afterwards" when she shared her plans to watch his film.
The playful banter between Gere and Guthrie was all in good fun, a testament to their professional relationship. Guthrie has been married to Mike Feldman since 2014, and Gere has been married to publicist Alejandra Silva since 2018.
And this is the part most people miss... The whole interaction was a reminder of the power of spontaneity and the unexpected moments that make live television so captivating. It also showed Gere's ability to create a memorable experience, not just for the audience but for the Today show team.
What do you think? Did Gere's actions add to the fun, or did they overstep? Share your thoughts in the comments! Did you find the interaction entertaining?
