Gere gets Palestinians out to vote

Hollywood actor Richard Gere has lent his support to a group aiming to broker peace in the Middle East.

16:34 04 January 2005

Hollywood actor Richard Gere has lent his support to a group aiming to broker peace in the Middle East, calling on Palestinians to vote in the approaching presidential elections.

Gere, who is famed for appearances in hits such as Pretty Woman and An Officer and A Gentleman, recorded a message of support for the One Voice group in a bid to get people out to vote.

Speaking alongside Islamic cleric Sheik Taissir Tamimi, Gere sought to emphasise the importance of the elections as Palestinians seek to replace the late Yasser Arafat.

"Hi, I'm Richard Gere and I'm speaking for the entire world," the promotional slot runs.

"We're with you during this election time. It's really important: Get out and vote."

The One Voice group behind the public service announcement also counts Hollywood couple Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston among its supporters, with the organisation now hoping to capitalise on Gere's high profile.

The Hollywood veteran is well known for his political and spiritual affiliations, namely as a devout Buddhist, but also for his work in Israel and the Middle East.

It is expected that the presidential elections, scheduled to begin on January 9th, will yield a high turnout.