Richard Gere was born on August 31, 1949, and "American Gigolo" was released on February 8, 1980. This means he was 30 years old at the time of the film's release. The movie played a significant role in establishing Gere as a leading man in Hollywood.

"American Gigolo," released in 1980, is a neo-noir film directed by Paul Schrader and stars Richard Gere as Julian Kaye, a high-class escort. The film is notable for its exploration of themes such as sexuality, love, and the complexities of human relationships against a backdrop of 1980s Los Angeles. It received mixed reviews upon release but has since gained a cult following for its stylish visuals, Gere's performance, and its commentary on consumerism and identity. Overall, it is considered a significant film of its era, though opinions on its quality vary.

Richard Gere starred as the lead in "American Gigolo," but the role was initially turned down by several actors, including John Travolta and Al Pacino. Travolta was considered for the part but ultimately declined due to scheduling conflicts, while Pacino also passed on the role, leading to Gere securing the iconic character of Julian Kay. The film, released in 1980, became a significant success and helped propel Gere's career.

"American Gigolo" is not directly based on a true story, but it was inspired by the real-life experiences of male escorts and the complexities of their lives. The film, released in 1980 and directed by Paul Schrader, stars Richard Gere as Julian Kay, a high-end male escort navigating love, money, and murder in Los Angeles. While the narrative reflects certain societal themes and issues related to the escort industry, it is primarily a work of fiction that explores the character's emotional and existential struggles.