Apple TV+ Bolsters Star-Studded Cast with Richard Gere for 'The Off Weeks'
Cupertino, Tuesday, 27 January 2026.
Apple secures Richard Gere to star alongside Jessica Chastain and Ben Stiller in “The Off Weeks,” reinforcing its strategy of leveraging top-tier talent to dominate the streaming landscape.
A High-Profile Addition to Apple’s Roster
Apple TV+ has officially confirmed the casting of Richard Gere in its upcoming eight-episode limited series, “The Off Weeks.” Gere is set to portray a character named Jonathan, joining a formidable ensemble cast led by Jessica Chastain and Ben Stiller [1][5]. This casting marks a significant continuation of Gere’s recent transition into prestige television, following his role in the Showtime drama series “The Agency: Central Intelligence” [1][2]. He joins previously announced cast members Arian Moayed and Annaleigh Ashford, the latter of whom is set to play the neighbor of Stiller’s character [1][7].
Narrative and Creative Direction
The series, described as a comedic drama, centers on Gus Adler, played by Stiller, a writing professor whose life is bifurcated by divorce [1][2]. The narrative explores Adler’s struggle to maintain stability during his “on weeks” with his children, contrasted against his “off weeks” where he engages in a romance with Stella West, played by Chastain [1][2]. West is characterized as a mysterious figure whose presence threatens to unravel the delicate balance between Adler’s parental responsibilities and his personal ambitions [1][5]. The show is developed by Apple Studios and boasts a robust creative team; Michael Showalter is attached to direct, while Alissa Nutting serves as showrunner [1][2]. Executive production duties are shared among a wide group including Stiller, Chastain, and Showalter, alongside veterans such as Paul Lee and John Lesher [1][2].
Strategic Implications for Apple TV+
This production underscores Apple’s (AAPL) strategy of securing top-tier Hollywood talent to bolster its library, which currently costs subscribers $12.99 per month [3]. The project represents the tech giant’s third collaboration with Ben Stiller, who previously directed the first two seasons of the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series “Severance” [3][7]. For Gere, a Golden Globe winner known for films like “Chicago” and “Pretty Woman,” this role solidifies his presence in the streaming sector [2]. While exact release dates remain unannounced, the production is positioning itself as a marquee title for the platform [3].
Summary
With “The Off Weeks,” Apple continues to leverage established cinema icons to drive subscriber interest. The addition of Richard Gere to a cast already anchored by Stiller and Chastain signals a high level of confidence in the project’s creative direction under Michael Showalter and Alissa Nutting [1][2]. As the streaming wars persist, Apple’s ability to assemble such star power remains a key differentiator in its value proposition.