Trivia / American Gigolo

• Actor-Inspired Element: The infamous full frontal nude scene was not in the script, but was shot with input from Richard Gere, who felt that it was appropriate for the character.
• Breakaway Pop Hit: The film isn't completely forgotten, but it has largely faded from the public consciousness. This is not true of the film's main theme, Blondie's "Call Me", one of their most recognizable songs and the biggest US hit of 1980.
• Inspiration for the Work: Paul Schrader first conceptualized this film whilst teaching screenwriting at the Film & Television School of UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles). During a class exercise, Schrader conceived of the idea of a male character working as a gigolo and that such a character could be called an American gigolo. Moreover, Schrader characterized his American gigolo character as an affection giver rather than one interested in just self-gratification. The title of the film ended up being "American Gigolo".
• The Red Stapler: The film is widely credited to have established Giorgio Armani in Hollywood because the Italian designer's clothes are featured prominently in Julian Kaye's wardrobe. When John Travolta agreed to star in the film, Armani provided him with many outfits to wear as Julian Kay. When Travolta walked off the project, Schrader hired Richard Gere; Travolta was a svelte six-footer, whereas Gere was much shorter and more muscular, so Armani's wardrobe did not fit and the designer's team had to make new clothing for him.
• What Could Have Been:
  • Christopher Reeve and John Travolta were offered the lead role of Julian but both in the end turned it down. Reeve was supposedly offered $1 million to play the title role. Travolta originally accepted the part then revoked it. Also considered were Chevy Chase, Harrison Ford, Mel Gibson, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone.
  • Julie Christie originally was to play Michelle Stratton when Gere was first attached to the project, but she backed out when Gere was replaced by Travolta. Meryl Streep was offered the role, but declined, as she found the subject matter distasteful. Glenn Close, Jessica Lange and Debra Winger were also considered.
  • Giorgio Moroder originally asked Stevie Nicks to compose, sing and record the main title song for this picture but Nicks had to turn down the offer as she had just signed a new solo contract with Modern Records which prevented her from working with Moroder.

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