Richard Gere fondly remembers his late co-star Louis Gossett Jr., who portrayed the tough but compassionate drill sergeant Emil Foley in the classic romantic drama An Officer and a Gentleman. Gere praised Gossett Jr.'s dedication to his role, noting that he stayed in character even off set, showcasing his commitment to the character's authenticity.
Louis Gossett Jr.'s portrayal of Sgt. Foley earned him the Best Supporting Actor Academy Award, making him the first Black man to win in that category. His performance was lauded by critics and audiences alike, solidifying his place in cinematic history.
Prior to his passing at the age of 87, Gossett Jr. continued to showcase his talent in projects like The Color Purple, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Throughout his career, he not only won an Oscar but also received accolades for his work in television, including Emmy awards for his roles in Roots and In His Father's Shoes.
Director Taylor Hackford, who guided Gossett Jr. to his Oscar-winning performance in An Officer and a Gentleman, praised the actor's portrayal of Sgt. Foley as groundbreaking, highlighting the character's authority over white characters in American cinema.
An Officer and a Gentleman, despite mixed reviews from some fans of Richard Gere, was a commercial success, grossing $129.8 million worldwide against a modest production budget of $6 million. The film's box office performance was impressive, ranking among the top-grossing films of 1982 alongside blockbusters like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Today, An Officer and a Gentleman remains a beloved classic, with a 79% rating on the Tomatometer and an audience score of 81% on Rotten Tomatoes. The film's availability for streaming on Max allows new audiences to appreciate the timeless performances of Gere and Gossett Jr., cementing its status as a cinematic gem.
