During Thursday morning’s PopStart segment on Today, actor Richard Gere unexpectedly joined hosts on set, catching Savannah Guthrie off guard. Gere appeared to discuss “Wisdom of Happiness,” the Dalai Lama documentary he executive produced, but his impromptu seating alongside Guthrie, Jenna Bush Hager, Dylan Dreyer, Craig Melvin, and Carson Daly turned the moment into a charming surprise. This playful interruption created an immediate buzz, perfectly illustrating the appeal of Richard Gere Today PopStart moments.
Live Interaction Highlights Playful Exchanges Among Hosts
As Gere entered the frame, Guthrie greeted him warmly, saying,
“Sit down, we’re doing PopStart. We’re happy you’re here.”
The relaxed atmosphere quickly gave way to humor when Carson Daly recalled,
“Remember when Craig was sweating earlier?”
and colleagues pointed out that Guthrie now looked similarly flustered. Responding to the rising tension, Guthrie jokingly asked,
“Yes. Is it getting hot in here?”
Gere noticed Guthrie preparing to leave during his interview, commenting,
“You’re leaving. I can’t believe it.”
She explained she had to catch a flight back to Tucson, Arizona, for an upcoming Today segment. When Bush Hager asked,
“Did you come here for her? For Savannah?”
Gere replied,
“I thought, ‘Well at least I’m going to come over and sit with her for a second before she leaves for Tucson.’”
Unexpectedly, Guthrie was able to remain for the entire interview after her flight was delayed, prompting Melvin to tease,
“She stuck around just for you!”
Discussion Turns Reflective on Diane Keaton and Early Career Challenges
During the interview, Gere discussed his documentary and recalled his late co-star Diane Keaton, who passed away on October 11 at 79 due to pneumonia. The pair appeared together in two films: 1977’s “Looking for Mr. Goodbar” and the 2023 romantic comedy “Maybe I Do.”
Gere reflected on his early career and the support he shared with Keaton, saying,
“That was a difficult film, this very kind of raw, sexual film,”
adding,
“And she’s pretty shy and skittish. And I was, too. That was my second film. And we kind of took care of each other, getting through these kind of challenging physical scenes with each other.”
He further remembered her kindness and authenticity, stating,
“But I remember just how sweet and gentle she was and how real. And I think anyone who’s ever worked with her is just like, ‘This is a real person.’”
The Impact of Gere’s PopStart Appearance and What’s Ahead
Richard Gere’s spontaneous arrival during the Today PopStart segment energized the hosts and viewers alike, demonstrating his easy charm and connection with friends on the show. His discussion about the Dalai Lama documentary and fond memories of Diane Keaton added emotional depth to the appearance. As Guthrie’s delayed departure allowed her to stay longer than planned, the segment blended playful spontaneity with meaningful reflection, highlighting the unpredictable and engaging nature of live television.
Going forward, Richard Gere’s involvement with “Wisdom of Happiness” signals a continued commitment to projects centered on meaningful themes, and fans can anticipate further discussions featuring his evolving work and collaborations.
