Can Richard Gere Come to Town and Live in the Manor to Which He’s Accustomed?

By Liz Spikol· 9/20/2013, 1:28 p.m.

Our friend HughE over at PhillyChitChat tells us that Richard Gere is coming to live in the Greater Philadelphia area to film the movie Fanny, and that he’s likely to rent “in the suburbs” because that’s where the majority of the movie will be filmed. “The suburbs,” you’ll admit, is a rather large chunk of change, particularly given that it includes New Jersey and Delaware.

My concern is for Gere’s comfort. This is not a man who — despite his progressive politics and his Buddhism and his passion for yoga — lives modestly. In fact, he currently has a vacation house on the market for $65 million. It’s a manor, actually, and looking at its contours, I don’t see many candidates in this area for a replacement, even if it’s only temporary. In fact, even the Sotheby’s listing says its “a unique property that can never be replicated.” Oh dear.

The house is in the Hamptons, and is called Strongheart Manor. It’s 12,000 square feet and has 12 bedrooms and 12 bathrooms in the main house. There are guest houses on the property as well. Below, some photos of the property.

Okay, so obviously, Cape May, it isn’t. But, I have found what seems to be a reasonable solution, and since it’s at the shore, people won’t likely find him, and surely he can afford a driver to get him to the suburban set. I recommend: Brigantine.

Brigantine is quiet and the people there respect privacy. The below mansion (not a manor, but we’re only talking about a couple letters) has a name: Casa Bella. This is good. Stars like properties with names. Though it’s for sale, celebs know how to rent places that aren’t for rent. (Confidential to plebes: Don’t waste your time trying.)

It’s got 10,000 square feet, though only four bedrooms. But that’s okay! It’s temporary! There are four-and-a-half bathrooms as well, which is not 12, but is more than three. There’s an elevator and a game room.

Other perks: a “state-of-the-art theatre” — with a golfing mural and a popcorn machine — where he could watch his movies (is there anyone, man or woman, who doesn’t cry at Officer and a Gentleman?), and a pool, in case the waterfront access doesn’t cut it. Photos below: