Ryan Murphy’s upcoming FX series, The Shards, is set to explore the dark and glamorous world of 1980s Los Angeles, marking the acting debut of Richard Gere’s son, Homer James Jigme Gere. The psychological thriller, adapted from Bret Easton Ellis’ 2021 novel, centers on a suspenseful story involving a serial killer, with Homer cast in a pivotal role.
At 25 years old, Homer Gere takes on the character Robert Mallory, a mysterious new student at the prestigious Buckley prep school, which is a significant step in his emerging acting career.
Plot and Setting of ‘The Shards’
Set in 1981, the story follows a teenage version of Bret Easton Ellis during his senior year at an elite Los Angeles high school. As the city is plagued by a serial killer known as The Trawler, suspicions grow around the newcomer Robert Mallory, who quickly becomes part of Bret’s close-knit group.
The narrative is framed through the perspective of an older Bret Ellis looking back on this harrowing year. The series merges elements of psychological horror with the atmosphere of coming-of-age drama, blending tension and style characteristic of Ellis’ work.
Originally serialized as an audiobook on the author’s podcast, The Shards was published as a full novel in 2021. While initially planned as a project at HBO, production has shifted to FX under Ryan Murphy’s direction.
Main Cast Members and New Faces
Igby Rigney will portray the young Bret Easton Ellis, bringing experience from his roles in Mike Flanagan’s horror series such as Midnight Mass and The Midnight Club. Homer Gere’s role as Robert Mallory is central to the series’ suspense. Kaia Gerber, daughter of supermodel Cindy Crawford—who was once married to Richard Gere—is also part of the cast, though her character remains undisclosed.
Additionally, newcomer Graham Campbell plays Thom, Bret’s closest friend, making this his first television role alongside Homer’s debut.
Production Timeline and Anticipated Release
While no official premiere date has been announced, FX revealed in May 2025 that the series had transitioned to their platform. With casting confirmed in July 2025, production is expected to start later this year, positioning The Shards for a possible release in 2026.
The Personal Side: Richard Gere’s Relationship With His Son Homer
Richard Gere has typically kept his family life out of the spotlight, especially regarding his son Homer, born in 2000 with his second wife, Carey Lowell. Gere and Lowell were married from 2002 until their divorce in 2013. Prior to that, Gere was married to Cindy Crawford from 1991 to 1995.
Gere also played a role as stepfather to Lowell’s daughter, Hannah, commenting on how this experience helped him embrace fatherhood.
It helped me move past any fears I had about having children,
Gere remarked in 2007, revealing his evolving feelings about parenting. By the following year, he expressed deep affection, saying of his son,
He fills me with joy… That’s love, too.
—Richard Gere, Actor
Significance and What Lies Ahead for Homer Gere
This project represents a major milestone for Homer James Jigme Gere as he embarks on his acting career in a high-profile series. Given the creative team behind The Shards and the established reputation of Ryan Murphy, the show is poised to draw significant attention upon release. Homer’s involvement connects a new generation of talent to an iconic Hollywood family, raising curiosity about his future roles.
As production progresses, the entertainment world awaits further details on the series’ development and the full impact of this casting choice within the thrilling narrative. The intersection of suspense, celebrity legacy, and Murphy’s vision promises a compelling addition to the television landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What has Richard Gere been diagnosed with?
A. Richard Gere is said to be recovering after dealing with pneumonia during a vacation in Mexico. He was there with his wife, Alejandra Silva, and their two young sons. According to TMZ on February 19, Gere was taken to a hospital in Nuevo Vallarta for treatment.
Q. How many languages does Richard Gere speak?
A. “It’s what’s known as a relationship,” he explained, mentioning that his children “speak two languages, so they’ll do well there.” When Fallon inquired whether Gere also knew multiple languages, Gere confirmed, jokingly saying, “Yes, it’s great. I perfectly speak 15 languages.”
Q. What is Richard Gere’s health problem?
A. While on a family trip in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico, in February 2023, Gere got sick with pneumonia and needed to be hospitalized. His wife shared that he made a full recovery. Gere is frequently mentioned as one of the well-known vegetarians, but whether he is vegetarian is debated.
Q. How many languages can Richard Gere speak?
A. Richard Gere shared on ‘The Tonight Show’ that he claims to speak 15 languages. He spent seven years in Spain but only remembers a few Spanish phrases such as “mi casa es su casa,” along with a couple more. Gere promised his Spanish wife that he would move to Spain to be with her family, saying it would keep her happy.
