Two men pose together in a hallway, one of them wearing a red and yellow robe, the other dressed in a dark suit; in the upper right corner, there is a circle with an old photo partially covered by a glare and a camera icon.

Richard Gere's spectacular physical transformation since he became a disciple of the Dalai Lama

Richard Gere has shown through his social media the physical change he has undergone after meeting the Dalai Lama

Richard Gere and the Dalai Lama have come from very different worlds; however, their paths have crossed thanks to Buddhist philosophy. Also because of their shared love for Tibet. Since then, they have forged a deep and lasting friendship.

The star of Pretty Woman and An Officer and a Gentleman has shown his most intimate side. The actor has done so by sharing never-before-seen photos with his spiritual teacher. Gere has opened his most personal album to remember his bond with the Dalai Lama. He has done so on a very special date: the 90th birthday (90th) of the Tibetan spiritual leader.

Two men smile and look at each other with joy; one is wearing a gray suit and the other is dressed in a red robe with yellow details, posing in front of a decorative background.
Richard Gere shows images from when he met the Dalai Lama | Instagram, @richardgere

They met in the late 1980s and at that time, Gere was already an established star in Hollywood. He didn't yet have his characteristic white hair and in those first images, they are seen smiling, connected, even in silence. It was the beginning of a relationship that has now lasted more than 40 years.

Richard Gere shows the images from when he met the Dalai Lama

During these decades, Gere has transformed not only his soul, but also his appearance, and his physical change has been remarkable. He has adopted a more serene lifestyle. He has practiced meditation.

Richard Gere has traveled to Tibet and India on numerous occasions. His face has become thinner, his gestures softer. He has radiated peace.

Two men smile together in a black and white photograph.
Richard Gere and the Dalai Lama have had a friendship for years | @richardgere

On July 6, Gere was in Dharamsala, India. The Dalai Lama has lived there since his exile. His 90th birthday (90th) was also celebrated there.

Gere wanted to be present on that special date. He showed up at his house that very day, without prior notice. It was a surprise full of emotion.

Richard Gere meets the Dalai Lama again

During the ceremony, the actor kissed the Buddhist leader's hand and shared moments with thousands of devotees and monks. Also with followers who came from all over the world. He participated in all the commemorative events, where he spoke with gratitude and devotion.

Two men bow, touching their foreheads in a gesture of respect and closeness, surrounded by others in a solemn atmosphere.
Richard Gere dedicates a few words to the Dalai Lama | @richardgere

"He's the most extraordinary man who's ever walked this planet," Gere declared emotionally. His words drew an ovation from those present.

At 75 years old, Richard Gere has shown that the passage of time has only deepened his faith. His body has changed, but his spirit has grown stronger. The friendship with the Dalai Lama has left a mark on his life, his soul, and also on his face.