The Pretty Woman Cast: Where Are They Now In 2025 And The Dark Secrets Of The Original Script

Thirty-five years after it redefined the romantic comedy genre, the cast of *Pretty Woman* remains one of Hollywood's most iconic ensembles. As of December 2025, the film's enduring legacy is celebrated with major anniversary events, while its stars continue to dominate the film and television landscape with exciting new projects, proving their careers were anything but a "big mistake." The story of Vivian Ward and Edward Lewis—which began as a much darker, un-romantic script—has evolved into a cultural touchstone, and the latest news on its beloved actors reveals a fascinating mix of upcoming thrillers, international moves, and returns to beloved franchises. This deep dive reveals the current status of the main players, their biggest roles since their time on Hollywood Boulevard, and the shocking details of the movie's controversial origins that were transformed by the late director Garry Marshall.

The Pretty Woman Cast: Biography and Latest Projects (2024-2025)

This section provides a complete profile and the most current professional updates for the key actors who brought the 1990 classic to life.

Julia Roberts (Vivian Ward)

• Role in *Pretty Woman*: Vivian Ward, the free-spirited Hollywood sex worker who is hired by a wealthy businessman.
• Born: October 28, 1967 (Age 58 in 2025)
• Key Post-*Pretty Woman* Films: *Erin Brockovich* (Oscar Win), *Notting Hill*, *Ocean's Eleven*, *Ticket to Paradise*, *Leave the World Behind*.
• Latest Project (2025): Roberts is set to star in the psychological thriller *After the Hunt*, directed by Luca Guadagnino (*Challengers*). The film, which also stars Ayo Edebiri and Andrew Garfield, is scheduled for a November 2025 release on Prime Video, marking a continued trend in Roberts' move toward the thriller genre.
• Current Focus: Her recent projects suggest a shift towards darker, more provocative roles, moving away from the romantic comedy genre she once defined.

Richard Gere (Edward Lewis)

• Role in *Pretty Woman*: Edward Lewis, the ruthless corporate raider who hires Vivian for a week.
• Born: August 31, 1949 (Age 76 in 2025)
• Key Post-*Pretty Woman* Films: *Primal Fear*, *Chicago*, *Unfaithful*, *Runaway Bride* (reuniting with Roberts and Marshall).
• Latest News (2024-2025): Gere relocated to Madrid, Spain, with his wife Alejandra Silva and their young children in 2024 to be closer to her family. However, he is reportedly already planning a "US comeback" in the near future.
• Current Focus: He has been reflecting on the enduring success of *Pretty Woman* for its 35th anniversary, noting that no one on the set knew it would become such a massive cultural phenomenon.

Héctor Elizondo (Barney Thompson)

• Role in *Pretty Woman*: Barney Thompson, the compassionate and discreet hotel manager of the Beverly Wilshire.
• Born: December 22, 1936 (Age 88 in 2025)
• Key Post-*Pretty Woman* Roles: *Chicago Hope* (Emmy Award), *The Princess Diaries* franchise (as Joe), and he appeared in every Garry Marshall-directed film.
• Latest News (2024-2025): Elizondo was a presenter at the Motion Picture Sound Editors' 71st MPSE Golden Reel Awards in February 2024.
• Current Focus: He is a highly anticipated returnee for the upcoming *The Princess Diaries 3*, which is in development, a role he has publicly expressed interest in reprising.

Laura San Giacomo (Kit De Luca)

• Role in *Pretty Woman*: Kit De Luca, Vivian's best friend and roommate.
• Born: November 14, 1962 (Age 63 in 2025)
• Key Post-*Pretty Woman* Roles: *Just Shoot Me!* (TV series), *Saving Grace* (TV series).
• Latest News (2024): San Giacomo remains active in advocacy and was highlighted in July 2024 for her work as a Board Member for Wheels for Humanity, promoting innovative disability services. She also appeared in the Disney+ series *The Santa Clauses* in 2022.

Jason Alexander (Philip Stuckey)

• Role in *Pretty Woman*: Philip Stuckey, Edward Lewis's abrasive and villainous lawyer.
• Born: September 23, 1959 (Age 66 in 2025)
• Key Post-*Pretty Woman* Roles: *Seinfeld* (as George Costanza), *Shallow Hal*.
• Latest Project (2024-2025): Alexander is scheduled to appear in the major Netflix sci-fi film *The Electric State* in March 2025, alongside Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt. He also returned to stage acting in Chicago in May 2024.

The Shocking Original Script: Why *Pretty Woman* Was Almost Titled *3000*

The fairy tale romance audiences cherish today was nearly a gritty, dark drama. The initial screenplay, written by J. F. Lawton, was titled *3000*, a reference to the price Vivian charged. The original plot was far more serious, focusing on themes of drug abuse, the harsh realities of sex work, and had a completely different, unhappy ending. In Lawton's original concept, Edward Lewis was not a charming, if ruthless, businessman, but a far more cynical and abusive character. The pivotal change came when the late director Garry Marshall took over the project. Marshall, known for his heartwarming approach, fought to transform the script into a modern-day Cinderella story. He is credited with injecting the film with the necessary charm, humor, and, most importantly, the iconic happy ending where Edward climbs out of the limo to rescue Vivian. The influence of Marshall, who ensured the film was a romantic comedy, is the reason the movie became a massive box office hit and a beloved classic.

The Enduring Legacy: 35th Anniversary and Cultural Impact

The year 2025 marks the 35th anniversary of *Pretty Woman*'s release, and the celebration confirms its status as a timeless piece of cinema. The film premiered in 1990 and quickly became a global phenomenon. It was a massive financial success, grossing a worldwide total of a whopping $463.4 million against a modest budget, making it one of the highest-grossing romantic comedies of all time.

Anniversary Events and Milestones

The film's milestone is being recognized with special events, including the D23 x SFC present: Pretty Woman (35th Anniversary) outdoor screening scheduled for August 2, 2025, in Burbank, California. These events often bring renewed attention to the film's iconic moments and fashion, such as the famous red dress worn by Vivian.

Key Entities and Topical Authority

The film introduced several key cinematic elements and launched the careers of its stars into the stratosphere, solidifying its topical authority in film history:

• The Red Dress: The iconic off-the-shoulder red gown Vivian wears to the opera remains one of the most recognizable costumes in film history.
• Beverly Wilshire Hotel: The luxurious hotel where Edward stays, managed by Elizondo's character, became synonymous with the film.
• J. F. Lawton: The original screenwriter whose dark script, *3000*, was famously transformed.
• Disney/Touchstone Pictures: The studio behind the film, which was initially reluctant about the subject matter but profited immensely from the romantic comedy transformation.
• The Bathtub Scene: One of the most memorable and charming scenes, where Vivian is singing in the tub.

The enduring chemistry between Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, along with the consistent presence of Héctor Elizondo, has cemented *Pretty Woman* as a film that transcends generations. The cast's continued success in 2025, from Roberts' thriller roles to Alexander's sci-fi projects and Elizondo's potential return to Genovia, proves that their careers—like the film itself—are still providing "a big, huge" impact on Hollywood.