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Richard Gere reflects on past Oscars ban
4 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Richard Gere was banned from the Oscars for speaking out about Tibet.
- He presented at the Oscars again in 2013 after a 20-year absence.
- Gere is an executive producer on a new documentary about the Dalai Lama.

Richard Gere, 76, recently reflected on his temporary exclusion from the Oscars. The ban followed his 1993 presentation where he spoke out against China's actions in Tibet, an issue he has long advocated for. Gere indicated that he did not harbor personal resentment over the situation, viewing it as a consequence of his activism.
Following his powerful statement, Gere was absent from the Oscars stage for two decades, only returning to present in 2013. He shared that while he advocates for human rights, his intention is not to cause anger but to highlight suffering and exclusion. He views redemption as a universal concept.
Beyond his own award show experiences, Gere is now an executive producer for a documentary focused on his spiritual friend, the Dalai Lama. He described this project as a significant undertaking, dedicating his remaining energy to its release and impact, hoping it inspires viewers.



