History of Julia Roberts in Timeline
Julia Roberts is a highly acclaimed American actress known for her diverse roles. Her films, spanning various genres, have grossed over \$3.9 billion worldwide, solidifying her status as a top Hollywood star. Her early success in films like 'Mystic Pizza' and 'Steel Magnolias' paved the way for her breakout role in the iconic romantic comedy 'Pretty Woman,' which catapulted her to leading lady status.
1953: Portraying an Art History Professor in "Mona Lisa Smile"
Julia Roberts took on the role of an art history professor at Wellesley College in 1953 in the drama "Mona Lisa Smile" (2004), a film exploring themes of societal expectations and female empowerment.
1955: Marriage of Parents
Julia Roberts's parents, Betty Lou Bredemus and Walter Grady Roberts, were married.
1956: Birth of Eric Roberts
Julia Roberts's older brother, Eric Roberts, was born. He also pursued a career in acting.
1960: Remake of a Classic
Julia Roberts starred in "Ocean's Eleven" (2001), a remake of the 1960 heist film of the same name, taking on a role originally played by Angie Dickinson.
1965: Birth of Lisa Roberts Gillan
Julia Roberts's older sister, Lisa Roberts Gillan, was born. Like her siblings, Lisa also pursued a career in acting.
October 28, 1967: Birth of Julia Fiona Roberts
On October 28, 1967, Julia Fiona Roberts was born in Smyrna, Georgia, a suburb of Atlanta.
1971: Parents' Divorce Filing
Julia Roberts's mother filed for divorce from her father.
1972: Parents' Divorce and Move to Smyrna
Julia Roberts's parents' divorce was finalized. Following the divorce, she moved to Smyrna, Georgia, with her mother.
1983: Mother's Second Divorce
Julia Roberts's mother, Betty Lou, divorced her second husband, Michael Motes, citing cruelty as the grounds for divorce.
February 13, 1987: Television Debut in "Crime Story"
Julia Roberts made her first television appearance in an episode of the series "Crime Story".
1987: Premiere of "Steel Magnolias" Play
Robert Harling's play "Steel Magnolias", on which the film Julia Roberts starred in was based, premiered.
1988: Film Debut and Early Breakthrough
Julia Roberts made her big screen debut in the dramedy "Satisfaction" and received critical acclaim for her role in the independent romantic comedy "Mystic Pizza".
1988: Film Debut and Early Role
Roberts made her film debut in "Satisfaction" and had a role in an episode of "Miami Vice".
1989: Critical Acclaim for "Steel Magnolias"
Roberts starred in "Steel Magnolias", earning her first Academy Award nomination and winning her first Golden Globe Award for her performance.
1989: Release of "Blood Red"
The film "Blood Red", which featured Julia Roberts in a small role alongside her brother Eric, was released.
1989: Release of "Steel Magnolias"
The film adaptation of "Steel Magnolias", featuring Julia Roberts, was released to critical and commercial success.
1990: Release of "Flatliners"
Julia Roberts starred in the supernatural thriller "Flatliners", which received mixed reviews but performed well commercially.
1990: Global Success with "Pretty Woman"
Julia Roberts, after several actresses turned down the role, starred in "Pretty Woman" which became a global phenomenon, solidifying her status as a leading lady in Hollywood.
1990: Global Stardom with "Pretty Woman"
Julia Roberts achieved global stardom with her role in the romantic comedy "Pretty Woman", which became a box office hit and earned her another Academy Award nomination and Golden Globe Award.
June 14, 1991: Breakup with Kiefer Sutherland
Julia Roberts and actor Kiefer Sutherland called off their engagement shortly before their scheduled wedding on June 14, 1991.
1991: Three Major Film Releases
Julia Roberts had a busy year with three major film releases: "Sleeping with the Enemy", "Hook", and "Dying Young". Despite receiving negative reviews, all three films achieved commercial success.
1992: Influence in Show Business
In 1992, Julia Roberts' impact on the entertainment industry was recognized when The Hollywood Reporter included her in its list of the 50 most influential women in show business.
1992: Hiatus and Cameo Appearance
In 1992, Julia Roberts took a two-year break from acting, making only a cameo appearance in Robert Altman's film "The Player."
June 25, 1993: Marriage to Lyle Lovett
Julia Roberts married country singer Lyle Lovett on June 25, 1993, at St. James Lutheran Church in Marion, Indiana.
1993: Return to Screen and "The Pelican Brief"
Julia Roberts returned to the screen in 1993 after a hiatus, starring in the thriller "The Pelican Brief" alongside Denzel Washington. The film, based on John Grisham's novel, was a commercial success.
1994: Release of "I Love Trouble" and "Prêt-à-Porter"
Julia Roberts starred in two films released in 1994: the romantic comedy "I Love Trouble" and the satirical comedy-drama "Prêt-à-Porter." Neither film achieved significant critical or commercial success.
March 1995: Separation from Lyle Lovett
Julia Roberts and Lyle Lovett separated in March 1995, later leading to their divorce.
1995: Release of "Something to Talk About"
In 1995, Julia Roberts starred in the film "Something to Talk About," which did not garner significant critical acclaim or box office success.
1995: Visit to Port-au-Prince, Haiti
In 1995, Julia Roberts visited Port-au-Prince, Haiti with the goal of educating herself about the country and encouraging donations to UNICEF.
1996: Guest Appearance, "Michael Collins," and "Mary Reilly"
In 1996, Julia Roberts made a guest appearance on the popular sitcom "Friends." She also starred in the historical drama "Michael Collins" and the psychological thriller "Mary Reilly," the latter of which was not well-received.
1997: Film Adaptation of a Play
Julia Roberts starred in the film "Closer" (2004), based on Patrick Marber's 1997 play of the same name, which had garnered critical acclaim.
1997: Success with "My Best Friend's Wedding" and "Conspiracy Theory"
Julia Roberts starred in two successful films in 1997: the romantic comedy "My Best Friend's Wedding," which became a beloved classic, and the thriller "Conspiracy Theory," alongside Mel Gibson.
1997: Success with Romantic Comedies
Roberts starred in the commercially successful romantic comedy "My Best Friend's Wedding".
1998: Television Appearance, "Sesame Street," and "Stepmom"
In 1998, Julia Roberts appeared on the children's television show "Sesame Street." She also starred in the drama "Stepmom" alongside Susan Sarandon, exploring a complex family dynamic.
1998: Start of Relationship with Benjamin Bratt
Julia Roberts began dating actor Benjamin Bratt in 1998.
1999: "Notting Hill," "Runaway Bride," and "Law & Order" Guest Appearance
Julia Roberts starred in two major romantic comedies in 1999: "Notting Hill" with Hugh Grant, which became a global sensation, and "Runaway Bride" with Richard Gere. She also made a guest appearance on the television series "Law & Order," earning an Emmy nomination.
1999: Continued Success in Romantic Comedies
Julia Roberts starred in two popular romantic comedies, "Notting Hill" and "Runaway Bride", further solidifying her presence in the genre.
2000: Record-Breaking Salary for "Erin Brockovich"
Julia Roberts received an unprecedented $20 million for her role in "Erin Brockovich", solidifying her status as one of the highest-paid actresses.
2000: Academy Award Win for "Erin Brockovich"
Julia Roberts won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of the title role in the biographical drama "Erin Brockovich".
2000: Rett Syndrome Documentary Narration
In 2000, Julia Roberts narrated a documentary to raise awareness about Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder.
2000: Meeting Daniel Moder
Julia Roberts met Daniel Moder on the set of "The Mexican" in 2000 while he was still married, sparking controversy.
2000: Critical and Commercial Success with "Erin Brockovich"
In 2000, Julia Roberts starred in the biographical legal drama "Erin Brockovich," portraying the real-life environmental activist. The film was a critical and commercial triumph, earning Roberts an Academy Award for Best Actress.
2001: Collaboration and Diverse Roles
In 2001, Julia Roberts showcased her versatility, starring in films across different genres. She collaborated with Brad Pitt in "The Mexican," joined an ensemble cast in "Ocean's Eleven," and appeared in the romantic comedy "America's Sweethearts."
2001: End of Relationship with Benjamin Bratt
Julia Roberts and Benjamin Bratt ended their relationship in 2001.
2001: Box Office Success with "Ocean's Eleven"
Roberts joined the ensemble cast of the heist film "Ocean's Eleven", which became a commercial success.
July 4, 2002: Marriage to Daniel Moder
Julia Roberts married cameraman Daniel Moder on July 4, 2002, at her ranch in Taos, New Mexico, after his divorce from Vera Steimberg was finalized.
2002: High-Paid Actress Recognition
From 2002 to 2005, Julia Roberts consistently ranked among the top 10 highest-paid actresses, as recognized by The Hollywood Reporter.
2003: Another Record-Breaking Salary for "Mona Lisa Smile"
Roberts' salary increased to $25 million for her role in "Mona Lisa Smile", further cementing her position as a top earner in Hollywood.
November 2004: Birth of Twins
Julia Roberts and Daniel Moder welcomed twins, a daughter and a son, in November 2004.
2004: Reconciliation with Brother Eric
Julia Roberts reconciled with her older brother, Eric, after a period of estrangement.
2004: Return to the "Ocean's" Franchise
Julia Roberts reprised her role in the sequel "Ocean's Twelve".
2004: "Closer" and "Ocean's Twelve"
In 2004, Julia Roberts starred in the romantic drama "Closer" alongside Jude Law, Natalie Portman, and Clive Owen. She also reprised her role as Tess Ocean in "Ocean's Twelve."
2004: Launch of Production Company and "American Girl" Films
Julia Roberts founded her production company, Red Om Films, and served as an executive producer for various projects, including the first four films of the "American Girl" franchise.
2004: Launch of Red Om Films and "American Girl" Series
Julia Roberts co-founded the production company Red Om Films and served as executive producer for several projects, including the first four films of the "American Girl" series released between 2004 and 2008.
2005: Music Video Debut
Julia Roberts made her first music video appearance in 2005, featured in the video for "Dreamgirl" by the Dave Matthews Band.
April 19, 2006: Broadway Debut in "Three Days of Rain"
On April 19, 2006, Julia Roberts made her Broadway debut as Nan in a revival of Richard Greenberg's "Three Days of Rain," starring alongside Bradley Cooper and Paul Rudd. Despite the play's commercial success, Roberts' performance received mixed reviews.
2006: Gianfranco Ferre Endorsement Deal
In 2006, Julia Roberts signed a $6 million endorsement deal with fashion label Gianfranco Ferre and was photographed by Mario Testino for their ad campaign.
2006: Spokesperson for Earth Biofuels
Julia Roberts became a spokesperson and chair of the advisory board for Earth Biofuels in 2006, advocating for renewable fuels.
June 2007: Birth of Son
Julia Roberts and Daniel Moder had their third child, a son, in June 2007.
2007: Appearance in "Charlie Wilson's War"
In 2007, Roberts starred in Mike Nichols' biographical drama "Charlie Wilson's War" as socialite Joanne Herring, alongside Tom Hanks and Philip Seymour Hoffman. The film was critically acclaimed, commercially successful, and earned Roberts her sixth Golden Globe nomination.
2007: Critical Acclaim for "Charlie Wilson's War"
Roberts starred in the critically acclaimed political drama "Charlie Wilson's War".
2008: Continued Involvement with "American Girl" Franchise
Roberts remained involved as an executive producer for the "American Girl" film franchise.
2008: "Fireflies in the Garden" Premiere at Berlin International Film Festival
Roberts starred in the independent drama "Fireflies in the Garden," which premiered at the 2008 Berlin International Film Festival. The film, where Roberts played a mother whose death sets the story in motion, saw a European release that year but was not released in North America until 2011.
2008: Conclusion of "American Girl" Series Production
Julia Roberts concluded her role as executive producer for the "American Girl" film series, with the fourth and final film being released in 2008.
September 2009: Hindu Names for Children
While filming "Eat Pray Love", Julia Roberts' children received new Hindu names from Swami Daram Dev of Ashram Hari Mandir in Pataudi in September 2009.
2009: Release of "Duplicity"
In 2009, Roberts starred opposite Clive Owen in the comic thriller "Duplicity." Despite mixed reviews, Roberts' performance was praised by some critics. She also received her seventh Golden Globe nomination for this role.
2009: Lancôme Global Ambassadorship
Julia Roberts became the global ambassador for the beauty brand Lancôme.
2009: Lancôme Global Ambassador
Julia Roberts began her role as Lancôme's global ambassador in 2009, contributing to the development and promotion of their cosmetics.
2010: Release of "Valentine's Day" and "Eat Pray Love"
In 2010, Roberts appeared in two films: the ensemble romantic comedy "Valentine's Day" and the adaptation of "Eat Pray Love." The latter marked her highest box office debut in a leading role since 2001's "America's Sweethearts."
2010: Conversion to Hinduism
Julia Roberts publicly shared her conversion to Hinduism in 2010, citing "spiritual satisfaction" as the reason.
2010: Lancôme Contract Extension
Julia Roberts signed a five-year extension with Lancôme for $50 million in 2010, solidifying her role as their global ambassador.
2010: Double Feature Success
Julia Roberts starred in two successful films released in the same year: the romantic comedy "Valentine's Day" and the drama "Eat Pray Love".
2012: Release of "Mirror Mirror"
Roberts played the Evil Queen Clementianna in Tarsem Singh's adaptation of "Snow White," titled "Mirror Mirror," which was released in 2012. The film grossed $183 million globally.
2013: Appearance in "August: Osage County"
Roberts was part of the ensemble cast of the drama film "August: Osage County".
2013: Release of "August: Osage County" and Awards Recognition
In 2013, Roberts starred alongside Meryl Streep and Ewan McGregor in "August: Osage County." Her performance garnered critical acclaim and numerous award nominations, including her fourth Academy Award nomination.
2013: Gucci's "Chime for Change" Campaign
Julia Roberts participated in Gucci's "Chime for Change" campaign in 2013 to promote female empowerment.
February 9, 2014: Death of Half-Sister Nancy Motes
Julia Roberts's younger half-sister, Nancy Motes, passed away on February 9, 2014, from an apparent drug overdose.
2014: Narration of "Women in Hollywood"
In 2014, Roberts lent her voice to narrate "Women in Hollywood," an episode featured in the second season of the documentary series "Makers: Women Who Make America."
2014: Emmy Nomination for "The Normal Heart"
Julia Roberts received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for her performance in the HBO television film "The Normal Heart".
2014: "Nature Is Speaking" Film
Julia Roberts voiced Mother Nature in the 2014 short film "Nature Is Speaking" for Conservation International, aiming to raise awareness about climate change.
2014: Performance in HBO's "The Normal Heart"
Roberts portrayed Dr. Emma Brookner in the television adaptation of Larry Kramer's AIDS-era play, "The Normal Heart," which premiered on HBO in 2014. Her performance was highly praised, earning her a Primetime Emmy Award nomination.
2015: Givenchy Campaign and "Secret in Their Eyes" Release
Roberts appeared in Givenchy's spring/summer campaign and starred in the thriller remake "Secret in Their Eyes" alongside Nicole Kidman and Chiwetel Ejiofor in 2015.
2016: Release of "Mother's Day" and "Money Monster"
Julia Roberts appeared in two films in 2016: Garry Marshall's romantic comedy "Mother's Day" and Jodie Foster's thriller "Money Monster," the latter co-starring George Clooney and Jack O'Connell.
2017: Release of "Wonder" and Voice Role in "Smurfs: The Lost Village"
In 2017, Roberts starred as the mother of a boy with Treacher Collins syndrome in the film adaptation of R.J. Palacio's novel "Wonder." The film was a commercial success and became one of Roberts' most viewed films. She also provided a voice role in the animated film "Smurfs: The Lost Village" that same year.
2017: Voice Acting in "Wonder"
Julia Roberts lent her voice to the animated drama film "Wonder".
November 2018: Premiere of "Homecoming" and "Ben is Back" Release
Roberts starred in Peter Hedges' drama "Ben Is Back" and in the Amazon Video psychological thriller series "Homecoming," which premiered in November 2018. Her performance in "Homecoming" earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
2018: Television Debut in "Homecoming"
Roberts had her first regular television role in the Amazon Prime Video psychological thriller series "Homecoming".
2019: Awards and Recognition
As of 2019, Julia Roberts has received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress, Golden Globe Awards, a BAFTA Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and Primetime Emmy Award nominations.
2020: Estimated Net Worth and Continued Recognition
By 2020, Julia Roberts' net worth was estimated to be $250 million. People magazine has consistently recognized her as one of the most beautiful women in the world.
2021: Box Office Success
As of 2021, several of Julia Roberts' films have achieved significant commercial success at the box office.
2021: Chopard's "Happy Sport" and "Happy Diamonds" Campaigns
Julia Roberts starred in campaigns for Chopard's "Happy Sport" and "Happy Diamonds" collections starting in 2021.
October 21, 2022: Release of "Ticket to Paradise"
"Ticket to Paradise," a romantic comedy reuniting Roberts with George Clooney, was released by Universal Pictures on October 21, 2022.
2022: Two Films and a TV Series
Roberts starred in the romantic comedy "Ticket to Paradise" and the drama "Leave the World Behind", and also appeared in the Starz political limited series "Gaslit".
2023: Release of "Leave the World Behind"
In 2023, Roberts starred as Amanda Sandford in the film "Leave the World Behind," an adaptation of Rumaan Alam's novel, alongside Ethan Hawke and Mahershala Ali. The film was produced by Barack and Michelle Obama's production company, Higher Ground Productions.
2023: Discovery of Biological Family History
Julia Roberts learned about her paternal great-great-grandfather's true surname, Mitchell, through an episode of "Finding Your Roots" in 2023.
2023: Chopard Global Brand Ambassador
Julia Roberts was announced as Chopard's Global Brand Ambassador in 2023, expanding her partnership with the luxury brand.
2023: Release of "Leave the World Behind"
The drama film "Leave the World Behind", starring Julia Roberts, was released.
2024: Chopard x Julia Roberts Jewelry Collection
In 2024, Julia Roberts collaborated with Chopard to launch a high jewelry collection, "Chopard x Julia Roberts", featuring the "Insofu Emerald" and emphasizing sustainability.