Richard Gere has paid a glowing tribute to Louis Gossett Jr.
The award-winning actor died at the age of 87 on Friday morning (29/03/24) and Richard, who co-starred with Gossett in An Officer and a Gentleman, has already praised his former co-star.
In a statement obtained by PEOPLE, Richard described Gossett as “a tough guy with a heart of gold.”
The 74-year-old star also praised Gossett's professional approach to filming Taylor Hackford's romantic drama film An Officer and a Gentleman, which also starred Debra Winger.
Richard said: “He stayed in character the whole time. I don't think we ever saw him socially. He was a drill sergeant 24 hours a day and that really showed in his performance. He drove every scene he was in.”
Gossett became the first black person to win a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role in the 1982 film, and Richard believes the late actor is deserving of the coveted honor.
The Hollywood star said, “We were all so proud of him when he won the Oscar.”
Elsewhere, Taylor Hackford also paid a heartfelt tribute to the late actor.
The director said he “hired him on the spot” after learning that Gossett had previously served as a U.S. Army Ranger.
“Lou Gossett's Sergeant Foley may have been the first black character in American cinema to have absolute authority over white characters,” Taylor said in a statement.
“The Academy recognized his flawless performance and voted him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. He definitely deserved it.”
Gossett's death was announced by his family on Friday.
“We are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved father passed away this morning,” the couple said in a statement.
“We would like to thank everyone who has sent their condolences at this time. Please respect the family's privacy during this difficult time.”