The 1974 drama movie “The Lords of Flatbush,” featuring Sylvester Stallone among its cast, was initially supposed to include Richard Gere in the role of Chico. However, their collaboration took an unexpected turn, leading to Gere’s departure from the project.
According to Stallone, tension arose between him and Gere during the early days of filming. Stallone recalled an improvisational scene where Gere’s approach became too intense. Stallone attempted to address the situation, advising Gere to lighten up. Despite Stallone’s efforts, Gere remained deeply immersed in his character, making collaboration challenging.
Stallone further detailed an incident during which Gere’s food accidentally spilled on him. This led to Stallone elbowing Gere and essentially pushing him out of the car. Faced with ongoing conflicts between the two actors, the director was compelled to make a decision – one of them had to leave the project.
In the end, Gere was removed from the cast, resulting in lingering animosity between him and Stallone. According to Stallone, Gere holds a lasting dislike for him and even attributes the infamous gerbil rumor to Stallone. The decision to part ways on “The Lords of Flatbush” altered the course of movie history, shaping the film without Gere’s involvement.
