Richard Gere’s unforgettable night at Goya Awards 2025

Richard Gere was among the most anticipated stars at the 2025 Goya Awards. The Hollywood icon graced the red carpet at Granada’s Palace of Exhibitions and Congresses, arm in arm with his Spanish wife, Alejandra Gere. Together, they created some of the evening’s most romantic moments. The excitement surrounding the beloved star of Pretty Woman, An Officer and A Gentleman, and Runaway Bride was palpable, as fans greeted him with admiration and applause.

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The distinguished actor and producer arrived looking effortlessly suave in an Armani tuxedo, while Alejandra dazzled in a jewel-toned Armani Privé gown adorned with intricate gemstone detailing over sheer tulle. She completed her look with black velvet Aquazzura sandals, a Roger Vivier clutch, and exquisite pieces from Bulgari’s Serpenti collection.

A Return to Granada

Gere and Alejandra have captured Spain’s heart, drawing special attention in Granada. The actor revisited the Alhambra, a place that enchanted him four decades ago—so much so that, as a devoted Buddhist, he once encouraged the Dalai Lama to visit. Tonight, he receives Spanish cinema’s highest international honor, recognizing his “extraordinary contributions to film history and dedication to social causes.” Adding to the significance, he accepts the award as an American living in Spain, a country that has warmly embraced him while celebrating the 50th anniversary of his film debut.

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'The Best Part is Seeing My Wife Happy in Spain'

Although Gere hasn’t spent much time in Spain, he has adapted seamlessly. “The best part of being here is seeing my wife happy. The people, the food, the lifestyle—it’s all wonderful.” He has been spotted enjoying chocolate with churros at the famed San Ginés café, exploring Cuenca with his children, and strolling through Málaga with Alejandra and their friend Antonio Banderas after attending Gypsy, Banderas’ latest musical. Tonight, they reunite in Granada.

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"We are happier than ever," Gere said, emphasizing that his joy is deeply tied to Alejandra’s. A dedicated activist with Galician roots, Alejandra shared what drew her to him. “We are soulmates. We share the same values, and our activism brought us together,” she explained, highlighting their move to Madrid to combat homelessness. "Our goal is that within five years, no one in Spain sleeps on the streets."

When asked about the Goya-nominated films, Gere admitted he hadn’t seen this year’s contenders. “I have three very young children,” he laughed, referring to his sons Alexander, 5, James, 4, and Albert, 11, whom he raises as his own. He also has a 25-year-old son, Homer, from his previous marriage to model Carey Lowell.

Antonio Banderas: The Perfect Host

Originally, Penélope Cruz was set to present Gere’s award, but a last-minute illness prevented her from attending. Stepping in was his close friend and fellow international star, Antonio Banderas. “He deserves this honor,” Banderas said. “Plus, he made the brilliant decision to marry a Spanish woman and, even better, to live in Spain.”

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Gere playfully reflected on their decades-long friendship, joking that he had a hand in Banderas' Hollywood success. In 1984, the two were photographed together in Madrid, and Banderas later sold the picture to afford a first-class ticket to Los Angeles. “I take credit for that,” Gere quipped.

'I'm Going to Faint!' Aitana’s Unforgettable Encounter

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One of the evening’s most memorable moments was the red carpet meeting between Gere and actress Aitana Sánchez-Gijón. "I'm going to faint!" she exclaimed upon seeing her teenage idol—the man whose face once adorned her school folders. First meeting in 1988, they shared a warm reunion, laughing and reminiscing. From one award recipient to another—Gere as Goya International and Aitana as Goya de Honor—both were ready to celebrate Spanish cinema’s grand night.