Richard Gere’s guest appearance on *The Simpsons* has led to a significant character evolution for Lisa Simpson, marking a pivotal moment in the show’s long history. In the Season 13 episode titled “She of Little Faith,” Lisa’s journey into Buddhism is intertwined with humor and heartfelt moments, showcasing Gere’s influence on the series.
The episode kicks off with Homer Simpson accidentally destroying Springfield’s church while launching a rocket. In a bid to raise funds for repairs, the church council turns to the wealthy but morally questionable Mr. Burns. Upon rebuilding the church, Burns decorates it with electronic advertisements, prompting Lisa to reject Christianity. In her quest for a new faith, she discovers a Buddhist temple where Gere’s character guides her in understanding the core principles of Buddhism.
Despite being produced during a later era of the series, “She of Little Faith” retains the wit and emotional depth that *The Simpsons* is celebrated for. The episode features comedic elements such as outrageous advertisements, including a “Godcam” reminiscent of a sports stadium’s “Kiss Cam.” At its core, Lisa grapples with her faith, while Marge attempts to steer her back toward Christianity.
Gere’s involvement was not incidental; he played a role in shaping the episode’s direction. According to showrunner Al Jean, Gere had three specific requests before lending his voice to the character. First, he insisted that Buddhism be portrayed with respect. Second, he wanted Lisa’s conversion to Buddhism to be a lasting change. Finally, he requested that Lisa shout “Free Tibet!” in recognition of his advocacy for Tibetan independence. While the first two requests were fulfilled, the phrase was ultimately spoken by Gere himself, not Lisa, who would later utter it in Season 14’s “I’m Spelling as Fast as I Can.”
The episode successfully presents Buddhism in a positive light, as Lisa learns about its teachings under Gere’s mentorship. A poignant scene depicts Lisa experiencing a panic attack when her family attempts to coerce her back to Christianity. In that moment, Gere’s character reassures her that Buddhism emphasizes love and compassion for everyone, regardless of differing beliefs.
Gere is not the only guest star to have a lasting impact on Lisa Simpson’s character. Paul McCartney’s appearance in Season 7’s “Lisa the Vegetarian” also resulted in a significant change. After encountering a lamb, Lisa decides to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle, leading to tension with Homer and Bart. McCartney requested that Lisa’s vegetarianism remain a permanent aspect of her character, a wish that has been honored throughout the series.
Both Gere and McCartney’s contributions have established Lisa Simpson as a groundbreaking character within the *The Simpsons* canon. Their influence has allowed her character to resonate with viewers on deeper levels, promoting messages of compassion, respect, and personal conviction. As the series continues, fans can appreciate the lasting changes brought about by these notable guest stars.
