**Richard Gere Remembers ‘The Only Cool Kids’ in North Syracuse: Buzz**
Richard Gere, the celebrated Hollywood actor known for his roles in films like *Pretty Woman*, *An Officer and a Gentleman*, and *Chicago*, recently shared a nostalgic memory about his upbringing in North Syracuse. In a heartfelt reflection, Gere recalled “the only cool kids” he admired during his formative years in the area. The story, originally reported by Syracuse.com, sheds light on Gere’s early life and the influences that shaped him before he became a global star.
### Richard Gere: A Brief Biography
– **Full Name**: Richard Tiffany Gere
– **Date of Birth**: August 31, 1949
– **Hometown**: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (later moved to North Syracuse, New York)
– **Career Highlights**: Gere began his acting career in the 1970s, gaining fame for his roles in romantic dramas and musicals. Over the decades, he has become a household name, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards for his performances.
– **Humanitarian Work**: Beyond acting, Gere is a passionate activist and philanthropist. He is a vocal advocate for human rights, particularly in Tibet, and has supported various charitable causes worldwide.
### Growing Up in North Syracuse
Richard Gere spent much of his youth in North Syracuse, where he attended North Syracuse Central High School. It was during these formative years that he developed a love for music and acting. Gere was known as a talented musician, playing the trumpet and composing music. His artistic inclinations set him apart, but he also observed and admired a group of peers he described as “the only cool kids” in town.
While Gere didn’t elaborate extensively on who these “cool kids” were, he credited them with influencing his perspective on life and creativity. Their confidence and unique style left a lasting impression on the young Gere, who would later channel those qualities into his performances on stage and screen.
### A Short History of North Syracuse
North Syracuse, a small village in Onondaga County, New York, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Originally a farming community, the area grew steadily with the development of transportation routes like the Erie Canal and later the railroad. By the mid-20th century, North Syracuse had evolved into a suburban hub, attracting families like the Geres.
– **Key Historical Facts**:
– The village was officially incorporated in 1925.
– It played a role in the salt industry, which was a major economic driver in the region.
– North Syracuse is known for its tight-knit community and small-town charm, which influenced many of its residents, including Richard Gere.
### Richard Gere’s Rise to Stardom
After graduating from high school, Gere attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst on a gymnastics scholarship but left before completing his degree to pursue acting. He began his career on stage, performing in productions like *Grease* and *Bent*, before transitioning to film. His breakout role came in 1980 with *American Gigolo*, which established him as a leading man in Hollywood.
### Key Takeaways About Richard Gere’s Early Life
– **Influences**: Gere’s time in North Syracuse and the people he encountered there played a significant role in shaping his artistic sensibilities.
– **Community Roots**: Despite his global fame, Gere has often spoken fondly of his hometown and the values he learned growing up in a small, supportive community.
### Fun Facts About Richard Gere
– He is an accomplished pianist and composer, showcasing his musical talents in several films.
– Gere is a practicing Buddhist and has been deeply involved in promoting Tibetan culture and spirituality.
– He turned down the lead role in *Die Hard*, which eventually went to Bruce Willis.
### Why This Memory Matters
Richard Gere’s recollection of “the only cool kids” in North Syracuse offers a glimpse into the actor’s humble beginnings. It’s a reminder that even the most successful individuals draw inspiration from the people and places that shaped them during their youth. For Gere, North Syracuse wasn’t just a hometown—it was the foundation for a lifetime of creativity, compassion, and success.
For more on Richard Gere’s reflections and his connection to North Syracuse, visit the original article on [Syracuse.com](https://news.google.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?oc=5).