Gerry Distancing Himself?

[Swansong]

I've been following an interesting topic on another board, where someone listed all the *signs* that Gerry has decided to distance himself from his fans, and more specifically, his FANSITES.

My question to you all is; do you see any indication that this might be true? If so, what are those indicators in your view?

And... if in the long run, this should prove to be true, how does that impact your feelings about Gerry?

Does your admiration for him at least in part, stem from the connections he has made with fans, and if for whatever reason he chooses not to connect with fans or the fansites, as he has in the past, would that disappoint you?

Swannie

[felliniquilter]

I knew he'd be very busy with his increased fame, but I was hoping he'd pop a recorded phone call or something a few times a year. If he couldn't even make it to the ComicCon with Zack, he's very busy. He has movies lined up bumper to bumper so to speak and they seem to be all over the planet.

But, I also worry that people associated with his sites may have assumed they have some sort of "right" to ask him to consider their creative efforts to make a movie from, or have shown up in his hotel making life miserable for him and the others there; I know that the rocknrolla people felt pretty bothered by fans who they felt it necessary to post soemething saying 'Mr. Butler has finished his part of rocknrolla" so please stop all the calls and visits to them --things along that line. That would make me move back a few steps for sure.

I would hate for him to feel we were the cause of his needed "distancing."

To be honest, yeah, one thing I always was knocked out about Gerry was that he was so caring about his fans. I would miss the phone interviews with the sites, or "Tarts Rule" or Christmas messages, etc. I would be disappointed, but more disappointed to find we caused that distance and loss. I sure hope it's a temporary thing. Time requirements will move him farther from us for sure. He simply won't have the free time he used to. But, I don't want the distance to be one that was necessitated by "misuse" from his fans.

I want to know he's happy. If fans are irritating him or making his job harder, than we get what we (some of us) deserve. I'm hoping he is doing back to back movies because he wants to establish his name as a serious actor who can play all sorts of roles, but once that's established, perhaps he can work a bit less--and maybe find someone.

When he can slow down some, then we'll probably see if he's fed up with fan pressures. Right now, he's just totally busy.

I haven't read or heard an interview where he has said he was pulling back from fans more. Has anyone? Where did they read/hear it?

I just hope it wasn't "us."

Edited August 21, 2007 by felliniquilter

[DelilahDead]

Hi Swannie!

I also read the same post that you did. My feeling is that even if it's true right now, it won't last forever. He speaks so highly of his fans that I can't imagine any absence on his part would be permanent.

[Cassie]

I've adored Gerry for so long that it would take a Mack truck to run me over whereby rendering my body to no longer have any use for me to not want to keep up this obsession I have. I find that as any star rises for said actress/actor their accessibility lessens. For me, one of Gerry's most endearing qualities is his way of reaching out to his fans. Any site you go to re: Gerry there is someone who has met him and they have lovely pics to show of their meeting.

There are plenty of stars out there where they have little to no contact w/their fans unless it's at a premiere or some other arranged outing. I do feel it's sad that more of them don't make the effort to try and mingle w/their fans. It's almost like they forget that if it weren't for the fans going to see their movies or buying their cd's they wouldn't be where they're today. I can only hope that Gerry doesn't take the route of distancing himself too much from his true and loyal fans. Now there are some out there who're only after the autograph to sale on ebay or in some cases there are a few stalkers out there interrupting said star while he/she is working or having a meal. I don't condone this behavior. But, if you happen to see him out and he doesn't appear to be in any sort of rush or stressing I would hope that he finds the few minutes to acknowlege you w/a hello and a possible kodak moment. There is absolutely nothing wrong in this.

We really can't expect him to come to every convention or outing that bears his name. He does have his own personal life to tend to that doesn't involve us. I just hope that he surrounds himself w/people who want the best for him and it doesn't involve them encouraging him to kick the fans to the curb and concentrate on other things. If it weren't for us Gerry wouldn't be the Gerry he's today. I give us true fans a lot of credit for a partial percentage of his success. We push for what we want and in some cases we made it happen. If I were Gerry I would be thinking that you gotta luv us for at least that.

Cassie

Edited August 21, 2007 by Cassie

[moonglow]

He's gone far FAR beyond the call of duty already, he's a busy man and that's a good thing..that means he's working and getting the recognition he deserves.

[Swansong]

I knew he'd be very busy with his increased fame, but I was hoping he'd pop a recorded phone call or something a few times a year. If he couldn't even make it to the ComicCon with Zack, he's very busy. He has movies lined up bumper to bumper so to speak and they seem to be all over the planet.

But, I also worry that people associated with his sites may have assumed they have some sort of "right" to ask him to consider their creative efforts to make a movie from, or have shown up in his hotel making life miserable for him and the others there; I know that the rocknrolla people felt pretty bothered by fans who they felt it necessary to post soemething saying 'Mr. Butler has finished his part of rocknrolla" so please stop all the calls and visits to them --things along that line. That would make me move back a few steps for sure.

I would hate for him to feel we were the cause of his needed "distancing."

To be honest, yeah, one thing I always was knocked out about Gerry was that he was so caring about his fans. I would miss the phone interviews with the sites, or "Tarts Rule" or Christmas messages, etc. I would be disappointed, but more disappointed to find we caused that distance and loss. I sure hope it's a temporary thing. Time requirements will move him farther from us for sure. He simply won't have the free time he used to. But, I don't want the distance to be one that was necessitated by "misuse" from his fans.

I want to know he's happy. If fans are irritating him or making his job harder, than we get what we (some of us) deserve. I'm hoping he is doing back to back movies because he wants to establish his name as a serious actor who can play all sorts of roles, but once that's established, perhaps he can work a bit less--and maybe find someone.

When he can slow down some, then we'll probably see if he's fed up with fan pressures. Right now, he's just totally busy.

I haven't read or heard an interview where he has said he was pulling back from fans more. Has anyone? Where did they read/hear it?

I just hope it wasn't "us."

No interview from Gerry to that effect..... this is an observation I read from a fan..... but I was just curious about how others felt.

[nance]

i think that as his star rises... he begins to get inundated with strictly autograph seekers..** of which i never understood... what do you do with those things anyways... unless its a shirt or a bra **** but a piece of paper or picture..... just not my thing... but i agree...to be able to just if he's not busy....or in deep conversation with someone... to be able to say hello..i admire your work..... fans shouldnt be chasitsed or made to feel belittled for that..... but i dont think thats the way he would distance himself..... i would imagine tthat he can no longer make himself as accessible to his fans.... as im sure the stalker mentallity as probably kicked in... with 300 being as popular as it is... he may start getting crazy letters and things.... all of which unfortunatly comes with the territory..... what would be nice is if his people... or he were able to contact his main sites and let them know.... his intentions.....

but he is a very busy actor right now.... and i cant imagine him finding the time to do anymore than just wave hello to fans.... and thats ok too....

there is another actor... richard armitgage who has needed to do this exact thing...... but has done it with dignity and grace.... and let his main fansites know his intentions.... and has his peeps... keep in touch while he also occasionaly posts to them too........

Edited August 21, 2007 by nance

[discoveringme]

Just from the simple fact of working on more movies, Gerry won't have the kind of time he's had in the past.

I think we've been very lucky with the kind of time that we HAVE gotten from Gerry. For me, I consider it an unexpected and wonderful gift. But like any gift, not one that should be expected but appreciated for what it is.

My fondest wish is that he stay as busy as his heart desires with roles that allow him to not only grow in his acting but grow as a person as well. I hope he is surrounded by those that want the best for him but still allow him to be the man that he is.

I can't imagine that Gerry pursuing his dream could possibly cause me to lose admiration for him. If I'm only a fan because he's had the occassion to wave hi to the fansites, so to speak, then it doesn't feel like too deep of an admiration to me. So no, it wouldn't change a thing.

[coppertop25]

Does your admiration for him at least in part, stem from the connections he has made with fans, and if for whatever reason he chooses not to connect with fans or the fansites, as he has in the past, would that disappoint you?

For me, no. My admiration has only to do with his films.

I have been lurking around his sites for some time now. And so far as I can tell he doesn't interact much on any of them. So no it doesn't disappoint me.

I watch his movies and when he does a tv interview I watch that too. That's enough for me.

Sincerely,

coppertop

[Swansong]

I will admit, that as someone who has never been a "fan" of any actor or performer to this degree, in the beginning it WAS Gerry's special way with his fans that drew me to him. It WAS through the various fan encounters; how he went out of his way to greet fans after Leno a couple of times; mentioning his fanbase in interviews; and how he seems to appreciate his fans.... that I came to admire him.

Yes, he also a wonderful actor, and I totally appreciate his talent, but his connection with his fans has played a role in my appreciation for him as a person, and not just an actor.

Gerry's connection to his fans is often mentioned by interviewers, and in articles, so it HAS been part of his persona.

Having said that.... I personally do not see any indication that he has made some executive decision to distance himself, and like some have already stated... he is building the momentum in an already busy career, and that limits his ability to make specific connections.

My own personal feeling is, even though it is true that Gerry's connection with his fans was in part responsible for my becoming a fan in the first place, if he ever does decide that he must pull back from initiating fan encounters or connections to his fansites.... then I would be solidly behind that decision, and it would in no way impact my admiration for him as an actor, or as a human being.

Things have changed for Gerry, so naturally, he must make changes to adapt to his new fame. I think he has gone out of his way to show his appreciation for his fans, and I believe that every action he initiated in the past between himself and his fans, was really for ALL fans, and not just the few who benefited from a special moment.

Gerry's appreciation for his fans is genuine, and not just an image he's cooked up to further his career. I also believe that even if he cannot enjoy the fan contacts he has in the past, he will still find some way to connect with his fans that is comfortable for him, and on his own terms.

Swannie

[xmargx]

Oh Serious Head on here...hello ladies and totally agree with everything you've all said....

What do I know about GB, nothing except he seems one of the most genuine and honest men...actors around, if he was annoyed about his fansites..I really think he'd give out a big hint, personally not through Go betweens. I'm sure as this is an intelligent, astute and mature man that he knows what's happening with the down side of fame and he was, he is prepared for it as his face becomes recognisable...something he's managed to miraculously avoid until 300.

I think what I'm trying to say..rather badly..when GB relates, I hear it from his own lips he's distancing himself from his fan bases I'll believe it until then it's just an individuals feeling, rumour or the fact as you've all said he doesn't have the time any longer.

Would I like him less...NO WAY, he's a diamond, a wonderful actor and human being and if that's all it took to put me off him ....then I'm not really a fan...am I?

xmargx

[nance]

totally agree swansong...... it was an intitial attraction...along with his wonderful acting...... but there must be some distancing musnt there???

i often wondered ..... gerry has said about his fans and sites ""we're alll along for the ride....and you've all been there from the begining....""' i often wondered about a line in dear frankie..... whether or not it ws scripted or something gerry added... perhaps a feeling that is close to his heart...... the scene where he puts frankie to bed.... and frankie wakes up... gives the stranger his gift...... and afterwards the stranger links pinkies with frankie saying """remember frankie..... we're all connected..."""

[phantomluv]

I have only known of Gerry since July of this year, so as a fairly new fan it would be hard for me to say if Gerry distancing himself from his fans would be disappointing. I fell in love with his talent when I saw him in Phantom of the Opera. Yes, it is true that I was mesmerized by his handsome looks but his talent is what drew me in.

I have watched many of his other films recently and enjoyed him then but not as I did when he did the Phantom. I will continue to be a fan and to watch other films coming out in the future. I don't care about the autograhs either. I would hope that he always has a connection to his fans especially the ones who are truly interested in him as an actor and enjoy his work.

From what all I have read, I think he knows how important his fans are and although he is very busy right now and hopefully will continue to be, I believe he will always be there for us in some way. Let's continue to support his efforts to be the best. I hope that when he has a chance to slow down that he will want to have a real life away from the spotlight.

Tojo

[stagewomanjen]

I think this has been coming for some time now...

Yes, I do believe he's distancing himself. I think the clarifying question is would this distancing be 1. by choice (intentional) or 2. incidental (just happening by circumstance of being insanely busy).

I'm not sure why, but I do think it's happening. And yes, I am a bit disappointed. Not disappointed in him, not less of a fan, but disappointed in the situation and the complexities that make this a reality. I do think he's the sort that will always do what he can, because he's made it known that he's genuinely appreciative of his fans. I just think these little tapes or phone conversations or appearances or whatever will become fewer and farther between - so each time more precious to us.

Sorry to be a downer, but you asked a serious question.

Jen

[cybrsal]

I haven't heard anything to think he would distance himself. Like some of you have mentioned his comments about his fans..." We're all in this together". I think he is rather fond of us, why would he back away? I do think he is very busy and this is a slow time for us, but that's happened before when he is busy. I think we need to be patient, while he is 'down under' and in the middle of filming. Look at all his interviews. He is loyal to his fans. If he chose to back off from the sites, I would be surprised. I certainly wouldn't hold it against him.

Sometimes, I wonder if he is as addicted to the sites as much as we are. He hears about all the good things we like about him. There is a vast amount of information. I don't think he would say all the things he does about us, and then back away. Why would he? This is a great group!

I think the important issue here is that we behave and not be demanding. He needs to be the one to pick and choose his moments. If he has to go, let him. If he chooses to come to the GALS convention, let him! ( I hope, I hope) We have no right to get upset when he chooses not to.

I adore Gerry and want the best for him. I think the feeling is mutual. He likes us too. Am I wrong???

Edited August 21, 2007 by cybrsal

[Bea]

Oh what a topic,

I became a fan before I knew anything about Gerry from watching his movies and

interviews.

Yes, I have been lucky enough to have seen him in person in Vegas,Comic Con (last year) and Wondercon.

I will hold those memories dear to my heart because of his humor and love of making movies.

My appreciation will not change. As we have stated often we do not do the conventions in hopes

of Gerry appearing. We have all connected due to the friendships born from these sites and for

that I am deeply grateful because my life is so much fuller because of all of you!!!

We luv ya Gerry

:yippee:

[Guest greyeyegoddess]

Ok, I had to chime in.

I find the whole idea of Gerry distancing himself completely the opposite.

Since 300, he's been seen around more often. I've seen the man more times this year than any time before. How many fans wouldn't have had the chance to meet him in Brazil or Berlin, or other areas of the world before this? Who would have ever thought he'd be back in Australia again? Or Japan? Or London?

Even though he couldn't make to the San Diego Comic Con, it was important that a message was sent to the fans from him. He wasn't there physically, but he was there in spirit.

He made time to come to SF for the comic convention for the release of 300, which was going to be out in a week from the convention, even though he had a premiere in two days, and just finished an interview show the day before.

He stopped to talk and sign autographs and take pictures at the premieres and at most of the talk shows he attended.

How many interviews did he do during the promotional 300 era? Everyone wanted a piece of him.

And who says that he doesn't check up on his fans online?

As many of you have experienced, sometime life takes you away from the things you used to enjoy, or things you have had time for. How many members of the site have had to leave for a short while? We miss them dearly, but until they take care of what is needed, whether it be family, a job, school, etc, they cannot come back fully and enjoy the familiarity they had.

Sure, he's busy...what else is there to say? Busy people have to schedule their lives. I think the fans are becoming a little more demanding, calling the production companies and trying to figure out where in the world Gerry might be. For two different charity events recently in Australia, Gerry was there. What does that say about someone?

Gerry's already personally tested my fanship, so it just goes to show that Gerry is not perfect but he does care for his fans. No one can tell me otherwise.

I think we get a little selfish, and forget that Gerry's fans are worldwide. With success comes great responsibility and probably greater expectations.

I have always thought that when Gerry becomes more successful, he'll be able to be in more places and more fans will get the chance to see him, he just may not have the time to have those intimate times with his fans...as his fan base grows and more people want him.

~alice

[9frozenroses]

I read this topic back on GB.Gals and answered my opinion there and once is enough.However I feel Gerry will always be close to his devoted fans for some of them have been there when he was just pulling himself up into the public eye and he is the kind of guy that wont blow off people that he knows care deeply for him. The world, the movie industry and people have changed in the decade he has been working. Its more dangerous for a celebrity to be "out there" where anyone with an urge to make him or her self a headline can cross ways. No, Gerry....Keep safe and live your life. We are your audience and you owe us nothing more than your films and the occasional interview or photo. I joined with the idea that you were a beautiful and honorable giving man and nothing you have done more or less will change my opinion of that. You have faithful and good fans here and if you are having to be more private for safety sake and just for the right to live your own life...God Bless you....We understand.

[beggs909]

Gerry's appreciation for his fans is genuine, and not just an image he's cooked up to further his career. I also believe that even if he cannot enjoy the fan contacts he has in the past, he will still find some way to connect with his fans that is comfortable for him, and on his own time

Well said, Swannie. Everything in life has it's season and Gerry has certainly moved into another phase of his career that thankfully keeps him busy making back-to-back films for his fans to enjoy. His recent filming schedule has had him traveling from one end of the world to the other, and looking over his upcoming "line-up," this is just the beginning of the wave created by 300. Hooray for him and Hooray for us!!

I've heard it said that fame is fleeting and I have no personal experience to judge the truthfulness of this statement. Somehow, I believe that GB will always be appreciative of his fans - all of his fans. Those fans that supported him from the beginning of his journey...those that cheered and supported him during his wild ride on the cusp of fame...and those that will always be there whether he's up or down. And, he will do his utmost to acknowledge his appreciation for our loyalty whenever possible.

I don't know if Gerry is moving away from his fans or fansites. However, he has many professional constraints on his time and person that dictate what he can and cannot do and still have some time left over for "R&R" (rest and relaxation). Hopefully, as loyal GB fans, we are in this for the long haul and will continue to applaud his successes and support him in his disappointments.

After all, isn't that what fans are suppose to do???

Hugs to all...beggs909

[ladyfran]

Ok, I had to chime in.

I find the whole idea of Gerry distancing himself completely the opposite.

Since 300, he's been seen around more often. I've seen the man more times this year than any time before. How many fans wouldn't have had the chance to meet him in Brazil or Berlin, or other areas of the world before this? Who would have ever thought he'd be back in Australia again? Or Japan? Or London?

Even though he couldn't make to the San Diego Comic Con, it was important that a message was sent to the fans from him. He wasn't there physically, but he was there in spirit.

He made time to come to SF for the comic convention for the release of 300, which was going to be out in a week from the convention, even though he had a premiere in two days, and just finished an interview show the day before.

He stopped to talk and sign autographs and take pictures at the premieres and at most of the talk shows he attended.

How many interviews did he do during the promotional 300 era? Everyone wanted a piece of him.

And who says that he doesn't check up on his fans online?

As many of you have experienced, sometime life takes you away from the things you used to enjoy, or things you have had time for. How many members of the site have had to leave for a short while? We miss them dearly, but until they take care of what is needed, whether it be family, a job, school, etc, they cannot come back fully and enjoy the familiarity they had.

Sure, he's busy...what else is there to say? Busy people have to schedule their lives. I think the fans are becoming a little more demanding, calling the production companies and trying to figure out where in the world Gerry might be. For two different charity events recently in Australia, Gerry was there. What does that say about someone?

Gerry's already personally tested my fanship, so it just goes to show that Gerry is not perfect but he does care for his fans. No one can tell me otherwise.

I think we get a little selfish, and forget that Gerry's fans are worldwide. With success comes great responsibility and probably greater expectations.

I have always thought that when Gerry becomes more successful, he'll be able to be in more places and more fans will get the chance to see him, he just may not have the time to have those intimate times with his fans...as his fan base grows and more people want him.

~alice

Alice ....SELFISH? ....ME? Nah....if Gerry feels that he's being a little bit crowded I honestly think he would give us a heads up! I think he's just too Damn busy and totally needs some down time....or should I say "reluctantly" alone time! If he decides that he wants to back off his fans I would of course be disappointed but it would not deter me in any way to not be part of his adoring fans... I have never and probably will never meet him in the flesh and really don't even have that expectation...I don't have to....I still think he is an incrediable actor and beautiful soul....also he's kinda scrumptious too! As far as him ever coming on to any of these sites...I doubt that he has the time....JMO!

Fran

Edited August 21, 2007 by ladyfran

[heISmyGspot]

Whether or not Gerry "interacts" with us as fans has nothing to do with him being a Scottish-accenting, Mum-loving, warm, compassionate, talented, most extraordinary piece of eye candy. I was here before the full-on fame, and I think I'll be here after.

[sammy's mom + lolita's dad]

I haven't been a Gerard Butler fan long enough to determine if he's distancing himself or not. I find him to be very open and available to him fans, maybe more available than he should be. That "Leno Stalking" video made me cringe when I saw how some of his fans took advantage of his generosity and good nature. He was the only celebrity to stop and get out of the car and then he was literally swarmed by fans. I was actually afraid for his safety. Most of the women there were respectful and gave him his space but there were 3 or 4 that were just awful and kept demanding his time and attention even though it was clear he needed to leave.

Let's give the man his space. He makes great movies which we love and he owes us nothing more than that. If we are lucky enough to see him either on a set or on the street, give him a smile and a wave and maybe mention you are a fan, if he wants to come talk to us he will. Don't call his set and make a nuisanse of yourself and embarass our boy. If you see him on a set don't pounce on him in between takes, he may need to go over lines or just relax. Again, give a smile and a wave to let him know a fan is near and if he has time to spare he will come over. Make the ultimate sacrafice and step back and give the man his space and I'm sure he will appreciate you for it.

I've never met him and I probably never will but I will always think he is an amazing actor and a wonderful man.

Long live the King!

[Guest greyeyegoddess]

Alice ....SELFISH? ....ME? Nah....if Gerry feels that he's being a little bit crowded I honestly think he would give us a heads up! I think he's just too Damn busy and totally needs some down time....or should I say "reluctantly" alone time! If he decides that he wants to back off his fans I would of course be disappointed but it would not deter me in any way to not be part of his adoring fans... I have never and probably will never meet him in the flesh and really don't even have that expectation...I don't have to....I still think he is an incrediable actor and beautiful soul....also he's kinda scrumptious too! As far as him ever coming on to any of these sites...I doubt that he has the time....JMO!

Fran, I know you did that in jest...LOL, and I love you for it.

I think we are, those who remember the little messages and little hints here and there. Those who haven't experienced that before don't have anything to measure the experience with...somehow, I think they are lucky. We were and are spoiled...and some can't help to think why the same things aren't happening again. Well, we all know life changes, people change and things don't always go as we plan.

I would disagree about checking the sites, though. There is a lot of waiting time when he can text and check email. He may not sit in front of a computer all day, but he does keep in contact with family and friends, as many of them have mentioned. Why not peek at what the site is saying? Why not read the special messages to him?

And don't say that you won't meet him, sweetie. You are a hop, skip and jump from the city...

Most of the women there were respectful and gave him his space but there were 3 or 4 that were just awful and kept demanding his time and attention even though it was clear he needed to leave.

Please be careful not to make assumption on videos and pictures, fans. Unless you were there, you cannot truly judge what happened. Those who were, usually say otherwise.

~alice

[Mrs C]

This is the price of fame. For fans who have been around a long time, it is hard when "your guy" is discovered by the masses. It makes him less accessable, simply because the number of fans have increased tremendously. Also, as his fame increases, so does his work load. I am sure, since he is working on so many projects, that makes his free time become more valuable and he will need to distance himself in some ways.

I think that fans today expect a lot of the celebrities they adore. I have seen this in action, and it isn't pretty. I have been shoved out of the way by a fan when with a friend of mine who is "famous." He and I were in a private conversation, and the fans just bulled their way in and pushed me away. He was very upset, because they had crossed the line and been disrespectful to me. If Gerry experiences that sort of thing one too many times it could very well make him distance himself from his fans. There has to be a line somewhere. I am not assuming that this sort of thing has happened with Gerry, but if it has, it could also be a factor.

[moonglow]

All I know is that he's one hell of a talented actor, a funny man, genuine and intelligent, that's why I'm here, if he interacts, that's icing on the cake, if he's too busy to, that's completely understandable, he's mentioned not only how much he loves his fans and this site as well, just the fact that he acknowledges his fans and how much they support and do for charity is more MORE than most stars do, everything else is gravy.

Edited August 22, 2007 by moonglow