Julia Roberts: America’s Sweetheart

From “Mystic Pizza” to “Erin Brockovich,” Julia Roberts has been a beloved presence on the silver screen for over three decades. Her talent, charisma, and natural beauty have made her one of the most popular and highest-paid actresses in Hollywood history. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the life and career of America’s sweetheart, Julia Roberts.

Early Life and Career

Julia Fiona Roberts was born on October 28, 1967, in Smyrna, Georgia. Her parents were actors Betty Lou Bredemus and Walter Grady Roberts. Julia’s parents divorced when she was just four years old, and she moved with her mother and siblings to Smyrna, where she attended Fitzhugh Lee Elementary School, Griffin Middle School, and Campbell High School.

Julia made her film debut in 1987’s “Satisfaction,” but it was her role as the sassy Daisy Arujo in 1988’s “Mystic Pizza” that put her on the map. That same year, she also appeared in “Satisfaction” and “Blood Red.” In 1989, she co-starred with Sally Field in “Steel Magnolias,” a film that earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

Breakthrough Success

In 1990, Julia landed the role of Vivian Ward in “Pretty Woman,” a romantic comedy that would change her life forever. The film, which co-starred Richard Gere, was a massive commercial success, grossing over $463 million worldwide. Julia’s performance earned her a second Academy Award nomination, this time for Best Actress. She became an overnight sensation and was soon one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood.

Julia followed up “Pretty Woman” with a string of successful films, including “Flatliners,” “Sleeping with the Enemy,” and “The Pelican Brief.” In 1997, she starred in “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” a romantic comedy that earned over $299 million at the box office.

Later Career

In the years that followed, Julia continued to work steadily in films, including “Notting Hill,” “Runaway Bride,” and “Ocean’s Eleven.” In 2001, she starred in “The Mexican” with Brad Pitt, and in 2003, she won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Erin Brockovich in the eponymous film.

More recently, Julia has appeared in films such as “Money Monster,” “Wonder,” and “Ben Is Back.” She has also lent her voice to animated films like “Smurfs: The Lost Village” and “Charlotte’s Web.” Despite being in her 50s, Julia remains one of the most in-demand actresses in Hollywood and continues to work on a regular basis.

Personal Life

Julia has been married twice. Her first marriage was to country singer Lyle Lovett in 1993, but the couple divorced two years later. In 2002, she married cameraman Danny Moder, and the couple has three children together.

Offscreen, Julia is known for her humanitarian work. She is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has been involved with a number of charitable causes over the years, including AIDS research and children’s health.

Conclusion

Julia Roberts is a true icon of American cinema, a woman whose talent and beauty have captured the hearts of audiences around the world. From her breakthrough role in “Pretty Woman” to her Oscar-winning performance in “Erin Brockovich,” Julia has proven time and time again that she is one of the most talented actresses of her generation. We can’t wait to see what she does next.

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