Sandra Bullock is a highly acclaimed American actress and film producer known for her successful acting career. Her talent has earned her prestigious accolades, including an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award. Her influence and earnings reached remarkable heights, positioning her as the world's highest-paid actress in 2010 and 2014. Bullock's impact extends beyond entertainment, as she was recognized as one of Time's 100 most influential people globally in 2010.
1925: Birth of John Wilson Bullock
John Wilson Bullock, Sandra Bullock's father, was born in 1925. He was an Army employee and part-time voice coach from Birmingham, Alabama.
1942: Birth of Helga Mathilde Meyer
Sandra Bullock's mother, Helga Mathilde Meyer, was born in 1942. She was an opera singer and voice teacher from Germany.
July 26, 1964: Birth of Sandra Bullock
On July 26, 1964, Sandra Annette Bullock was born in Arlington County, Virginia to parents Helga Mathilde, an opera singer, and John Wilson Bullock, an Army employee.
1982: Sandra Bullock Graduates High School
Sandra Bullock graduated from Washington-Lee High School in 1982, where she was an active participant in cheerleading and school theater productions.
1987: Sandra Bullock Earns BFA in Drama from East Carolina University
Sandra Bullock earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama from East Carolina University in 1987, showcasing her dedication to pursuing a career in acting.
1989: Sandra Bullock's Television Debut in "Bionic Showdown: The Six Million Dollar Man and the Bionic Woman"
In 1989, Sandra Bullock made her television debut in the film "Bionic Showdown: The Six Million Dollar Man and the Bionic Woman," marking the beginning of her on-screen career.
1989: Release of John Grisham's Novel "A Time to Kill"
John Grisham's novel "A Time to Kill," which would later be adapted into a film starring Sandra Bullock, was published in 1989.
1990: Sandra Bullock Stars in "Working Girl"
Sandra Bullock landed a lead role in the short-lived NBC television version of the film "Working Girl" in 1990.
1992: Sandra Bullock Appears in "Love Potion No. 9"
Sandra Bullock appeared in the film "Love Potion No. 9" in 1992.
1993: Sandra Bullock Appears in "The Thing Called Love", "Fire on the Amazon", and "Demolition Man"
Sandra Bullock appeared in three films in 1993: "The Thing Called Love," "Fire on the Amazon," and "Demolition Man," which brought her early recognition.
1994: Release of "Speed"
Sandra Bullock starred in the action thriller "Speed", released in 1994, which became one of her highest-grossing films.
1994: Sandra Bullock's Breakthrough Role in "Speed"
In 1994, Sandra Bullock starred as Annie Porter in the blockbuster hit "Speed" alongside Keanu Reeves, which catapulted her to Hollywood fame.
1995: Sandra Bullock Stars in "While You Were Sleeping" and "The Net"
Sandra Bullock showcased her versatility by starring in the romantic comedy "While You Were Sleeping" and the thriller "The Net" in 1995, solidifying her presence as a leading lady in Hollywood.
1995: Sandra Bullock Wins Awards for "Speed"
Sandra Bullock's performance in "Speed" earned her the Best Actress award at the 21st Saturn Awards and Best Female Performance and Most Desirable Female at the 1995 MTV Movie Awards.
1996: Release of "A Time to Kill"
In 1996, Sandra Bullock starred in the legal drama "A Time to Kill," which became one of her most financially successful films.
1996: Sandra Bullock Stars in "A Time to Kill"
Sandra Bullock starred in the legal drama "A Time to Kill," based on John Grisham's novel, alongside a star-studded cast in 1996.
1996: People Magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People
Sandra Bullock was named one of People magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People in the World in 1996.
1997: Release of "Truman Capote" Source Material
George Plimpton's book "Truman Capote," which served as the inspiration for the film "Infamous" starring Sandra Bullock, was originally published in 1997.
1997: Sandra Bullock Stars in "Speed 2: Cruise Control"
Sandra Bullock reprised her role in the sequel "Speed 2: Cruise Control" in 1997, though the film faced critical and commercial disappointment.
1998: Practical Magic and Other Roles
In 1998, Sandra Bullock starred in "Practical Magic" with Nicole Kidman, playing a witch struggling to find love. The film, while initially successful, ultimately flopped. Bullock also lent her voice to "The Prince of Egypt" as Miriam and explored her creative side by writing, producing, and directing the short film "Making Sandwiches."
1998: Release of "The Prince of Egypt"
Sandra Bullock lent her voice to the animated musical epic "The Prince of Egypt," released in 1998. The film was a major box office success.
1998: Sandra Bullock Stars in "Hope Floats"
Sandra Bullock took on the lead role in the commercially successful drama "Hope Floats" in 1998.
1998: Hope Floats Release
Sandra Bullock's production company, Fortis Films, produced "Hope Floats" in 1998.
1999: People Magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People
Sandra Bullock was named one of People magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People in the World in 1999.
1999: Forces of Nature
Sandra Bullock starred in the romantic comedy "Forces of Nature" in 1999, playing a free spirit who develops a connection with a writer played by Ben Affleck. The film was noted for their on-screen chemistry and grossed $93 million worldwide.
1999: Sandra Bullock's Impact on Hollywood
Ben Affleck, reflecting on working with Sandra Bullock in the 1999 film "Forces of Nature," highlighted her significant influence in Hollywood, stating that she was being considered for almost every leading female role. Her talent and popularity made her one of the most in-demand actresses in the industry.
December 20, 2000: Private Jet Crash
On December 20, 2000, Sandra Bullock was involved in a private jet crash while landing at Jackson Hole Airport. Thankfully, she and the crew escaped without injuries.
2000: Death of Helga Mathilde Bullock
Helga Mathilde Bullock, Sandra Bullock's mother, passed away in 2000.
2000: Release of "Miss Congeniality"
Sandra Bullock starred in the comedy "Miss Congeniality" in 2000, which became a massive commercial hit.
2000: Miss Congeniality Release
Sandra Bullock's production company, Fortis Films, produced "Miss Congeniality" in 2000.
2000: Miss Congeniality and 28 Days
The year 2000 saw Sandra Bullock achieve further success with "Miss Congeniality," a comedy where she played an FBI agent undercover in a beauty pageant. The film grossed $212 million globally and earned her a Golden Globe nomination. She also starred in "28 Days" as a columnist battling alcoholism.
2002: Murder by Numbers, Two Weeks Notice, and Recognition
In 2002, Sandra Bullock took on diverse roles, starring in the thriller "Murder by Numbers" as a detective and the romantic comedy "Two Weeks Notice" alongside Hugh Grant. The latter grossed $199 million globally. She was also recognized with the Raul Julia Award for Excellence for promoting Hispanic representation in the entertainment industry, through her role as executive producer of the sitcom "George Lopez."
2002: Stalking by Thomas James Weldon Begins
Sandra Bullock's experience with stalking began in 2002 when Thomas James Weldon started following her across multiple states.
2002: Two Weeks Notice Release
Sandra Bullock's production company, Fortis Films, produced "Two Weeks Notice" in 2002.
2003: Restraining Order Against Weldon
In 2003, Sandra Bullock obtained a restraining order against Thomas James Weldon. This order would later be renewed in 2006.
October 2004: Lawsuit Regarding Lake Austin Home
Sandra Bullock won a multimillion-dollar lawsuit against Benny Daneshjou, the builder of her Lake Austin, Texas home, in October 2004. The jury deemed the house uninhabitable.
2004: Critical Acclaim for "Crash"
Sandra Bullock was part of the ensemble cast of the drama "Crash" in 2004. The film, which explored racial and social tensions in Los Angeles, won the Academy Award for Best Picture, and Bullock received praise for her performance.
2004: Donation to Indian Ocean Earthquake Relief
Sandra Bullock donated $1 million to the relief efforts following the devastating Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunamis in 2004.
March 24, 2005: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
On March 24, 2005, Sandra Bullock's contributions to the film industry were immortalized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Her star is located at 6801 Hollywood Boulevard.
July 16, 2005: Marriage to Jesse James
On July 16, 2005, Sandra Bullock married Jesse James, a motorcycle builder, and host of the television show "Monster Garage". They first met when Bullock arranged for her godson to meet James as a Christmas present.
2005: Women in Film Crystal Award
In 2005, Sandra Bullock was honored with the Women in Film Crystal Award, recognizing her contributions to the entertainment industry and her advocacy for women.
2005: Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous Release
Sandra Bullock's production company, Fortis Films, produced "Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous" in 2005.
2005: Our Brand is Crisis Inspiration
The film "Our Brand Is Crisis," in which Sandra Bullock starred and executive produced, was based on a 2005 documentary film of the same name by Rachel Boynton.
November 2006: Bess Bistro Opening
Sandra Bullock founded Bess Bistro, an Austin, Texas restaurant, in November 2006.
2006: The Lake House and Infamous
Sandra Bullock reunited with Keanu Reeves in the romantic drama "The Lake House" in 2006, though their characters were mostly separated throughout the film. The film performed well financially. She also portrayed Harper Lee in "Infamous," a drama based on George Plimpton's book about Truman Capote.
2006: Restraining Order Renewed
Sandra Bullock's restraining order against Thomas James Weldon was renewed in 2006.
April 22, 2007: Confrontation with Obsessed Fan
On April 22, 2007, Marcia Diana Valentine, an obsessed fan, was found outside the home of Sandra Bullock and Jesse James. When confronted by James, she attempted to hit him with her car. This led to Valentine being charged with aggravated assault and stalking. Although she pleaded not guilty, she was ultimately convicted of stalking and given three years' probation. Bullock also obtained a restraining order against Valentine.
2007: Premonition
Sandra Bullock starred in the supernatural thriller "Premonition" in 2007, playing a woman experiencing the events surrounding her husband's death in a non-linear timeline. Despite receiving negative reviews, the film was a commercial success.
2007: End of George Lopez Sitcom
Sandra Bullock's production company, Fortis Films, produced the sitcom "George Lopez" which ran from 2002 to 2007.
2007: End of "George Lopez"
The sitcom "George Lopez," which Sandra Bullock executive produced, aired its final episode in 2007.
April 18, 2008: Car Accident
Sandra Bullock and her then-husband Jesse James were in a car accident on April 18, 2008, while she was filming "The Proposal" in Massachusetts. A drunk driver hit their vehicle head-on, but they were unharmed.
November 2009: Custody Battle with Janine Lindemulder
In November 2009, Bullock and James were involved in a custody battle with James's ex-wife, Janine Lindemulder. Bullock and James emerged victorious, gaining full custody of James's five-year-old daughter.
2009: Release of "The Proposal" and "The Blind Side"
2009 was a big year for Sandra Bullock with the release of two highly successful films: the romantic comedy "The Proposal" and the biographical drama "The Blind Side."
2009: Sandra Bullock Applies for German Citizenship
In 2009, Sandra Bullock, who spent part of her childhood in Germany, applied for German citizenship while still maintaining her American citizenship.
2009: The Proposal and The Blind Side
Sandra Bullock starred in two successful films in 2009. She played a demanding editor in the romantic comedy "The Proposal" alongside Ryan Reynolds, which grossed $317 million worldwide. She also took on the role of Leigh Anne Tuohy in the drama "The Blind Side," a role she initially hesitated to accept. The film became her highest-grossing domestic release and earned her numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Actress.
2009: Awards for "The Blind Side"
Sandra Bullock's performance in "The Blind Side" (2009) earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama, and the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role.
January 2010: Adoption of Son
Sandra Bullock's adopted son was born in January 2010 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Although Bullock and James had begun the adoption process together, she continued and finalized it as a single parent.
March 2010: Infidelity Scandal Breaks
In March 2010, a scandal erupted when multiple women came forward claiming to have had affairs with Jesse James during his marriage to Sandra Bullock. This led to Bullock canceling promotional appearances for her film "The Blind Side" due to "unforeseen personal reasons".
March 18, 2010: Jesse James' Public Apology
On March 18, 2010, amidst swirling rumors of infidelity, Jesse James issued a public apology to Sandra Bullock. He took full responsibility for the situation but denied the majority of the allegations.
March 30, 2010: James Enters Rehabilitation
On March 30, 2010, following his public apology, Jesse James checked into a rehabilitation facility. The stated goal was to address personal issues and salvage his relationship with Bullock.
April 23, 2010: Bullock Files for Divorce
Sandra Bullock filed for divorce from Jesse James in Austin, Texas on April 23, 2010, following the highly publicized infidelity scandal.
June 28, 2010: Divorce Finalized
The divorce between Sandra Bullock and Jesse James was finalized on June 28, 2010. The official reason given was "conflict of personalities".
2010: Sandra Bullock Named World's Highest-Paid Actress and One of Time's 100 Most Influential People
In 2010, Sandra Bullock achieved the title of the world's highest-paid actress and was recognized for her influence by being named one of Time's 100 most influential people.
2010: Advocacy for Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Clean-up
In 2010, Sandra Bullock joined other public figures in advocating for the clean-up of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, urging people to sign a petition for action.
2010: People Magazine's Woman of the Year
People magazine honored Sandra Bullock as their Woman of the Year in 2010.
2010: Donations to Haiti Earthquake Relief
Sandra Bullock made a generous $1 million donation towards relief efforts in Haiti in 2010 following the devastating earthquake.
2010: Time 100 Most Influential People
Sandra Bullock was recognized as one of the world's most influential people by Time magazine in their annual Time 100 list in 2010.
2010: Shift in Career Focus
By 2010, Sandra Bullock was one of Hollywood's most sought-after actresses. However, she chose to prioritize her personal life and became more selective with her roles, turning down numerous projects. Her decision reflected a shift towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.
2011: Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close
In 2011, Sandra Bullock starred alongside Tom Hanks in the drama "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close," based on the novel of the same name. The film, which dealt with the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, received mixed reviews but garnered multiple award nominations, including a Best Picture nomination at the Academy Awards.
2011: Donation to Tōhoku Earthquake and Tsunami Relief
In response to the devastating Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami in 2011, Sandra Bullock once again donated $1 million to relief efforts.
2011: People Magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People
Sandra Bullock was named one of People magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People in the World in 2011.
2012: Warren Easton Hall of Fame Induction
Sandra Bullock was recognized for her philanthropy in 2012 with an induction into the Warren Easton Hall of Fame, acknowledging her charitable contributions.
October 4, 2013: Gravity Premiere and World Space Week
"Gravity," the sci-fi thriller starring Sandra Bullock and George Clooney, premiered at the 70th Venice International Film Festival and was strategically released in theaters on October 4, 2013, coinciding with the start of World Space Week.
2013: Gravity Release
Sandra Bullock's space-themed Paddington Bear statue was named "Gravity Bear" as a reference to her 2013 film, "Gravity".
2013: The Heat and Gravity
Sandra Bullock starred in two contrasting films in 2013. She showcased her comedic timing alongside Melissa McCarthy in the buddy cop comedy "The Heat," which was well-received and grossed $230 million worldwide. She then took on the challenging role of an astronaut stranded in space in Alfonso Cuarón's sci-fi thriller "Gravity," opposite George Clooney. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival to critical acclaim, with many considering it a masterpiece and Bullock's performance her career best.
2013: Nominations for "Gravity"
In 2013, Sandra Bullock received nominations for her performance in "Gravity" for the Academy Award for Best Actress, the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama, and the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role.
2013: Release of "The Heat" and "Gravity"
Sandra Bullock had two major film releases in 2013: the buddy cop comedy "The Heat" and the science fiction thriller "Gravity."
June 2014: Break-in and Stalking by Joshua Corbett
In June 2014, Sandra Bullock experienced a terrifying home invasion when Joshua James Corbett broke into her Los Angeles residence. Bullock took refuge in a locked room and contacted the police.
2014: Paddington Bear Statue Design for Charity
Sandra Bullock designed a space-themed Paddington Bear statue called "Gravity Bear" in 2014, which was auctioned to support the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).
2014: Forbes' List of Most Powerful Actresses and Spike Guys' Choice Awards
Sandra Bullock earned the second spot on Forbes' list of most powerful actresses and received the Decade of Hotness Award at the Spike Guys' Choice Awards in 2014.
2014: Sandra Bullock Again World's Highest-Paid Actress
Sandra Bullock reclaimed her spot as the world's highest-paid actress in 2014.
2014: Highest-Paid Actress
Sandra Bullock's success in 2013, particularly with "Gravity," led to her becoming the highest-paid actress in Hollywood in 2014.
September 20, 2015: Bess Bistro Closure
Sandra Bullock's Austin, Texas, restaurant, Bess Bistro, closed on September 20, 2015, after almost nine years in business.
December 2015: Adoption of Daughter
Sandra Bullock adopted her second child, a daughter, in December 2015. This news was shared with the public via a People magazine cover featuring Bullock and her three-year-old daughter.
2015: Relationship with Bryan Randall
Sandra Bullock began dating photographer Bryan Randall in mid-2015. Their relationship continued until his passing in 2023.
2015: Release of "Minions"
Sandra Bullock provided a voice for the animated comedy "Minions," released in 2015. The film was a massive commercial success.
2015: People Magazine's Most Beautiful Woman
People magazine named Sandra Bullock the Most Beautiful Woman in 2015.
2015: Minions and Our Brand Is Crisis Release
In 2015, Sandra Bullock voiced the villain Scarlet Overkill in "Minions," which became her highest-grossing film. She also starred in and executive produced "Our Brand Is Crisis," portraying a political consultant.
2017: Corbett Sentenced
In 2017, Joshua Corbett, who broke into Sandra Bullock's home in 2014, was sentenced. After pleading no contest, he received five years' probation for stalking and burglary. Additionally, a ten-year protective order was issued, mandating Corbett to stay away from Bullock.
2017: Donation to Hurricane Harvey Relief
Sandra Bullock showed her support for Hurricane Harvey relief efforts in 2017 by donating $1 million to aid those affected in Texas.
May 2, 2018: Death of Joshua Corbett
On May 2, 2018, Joshua Corbett, who had stalked and burglarized Bullock's home in 2014, died by suicide during a standoff with a SWAT team. This occurred when officers attempted to arrest Corbett for missing a court date.
2018: Bird Box Release
In 2018, Sandra Bullock starred in the Netflix post-apocalyptic horror film "Bird Box," delivering a critically acclaimed performance as Malorie, a woman protecting her children from an unseen threat.
2018: Death of John Wilson Bullock
John Wilson Bullock, Sandra Bullock's father, passed away in 2018.
2018: Ocean's 8 Release
Sandra Bullock starred in "Ocean's 8" in 2018, playing Debbie Ocean, the sister of Danny Ocean, marking her return to franchise films and a more selective approach to roles.
2018: Release of "Ocean's 8"
Sandra Bullock starred in the heist comedy "Ocean's 8," released in 2018. The film performed well at the box office.
2021: Bird Box Streaming Record
"Bird Box," starring Sandra Bullock, held the record for the most-watched film on Netflix within 28 days of its release until 2021.
2021: The Unforgivable Release
Sandra Bullock starred in Netflix's "The Unforgivable" in 2021, playing a woman released from prison after a violent crime. The film was a streaming success.
2022: The Lost City Release
In 2022, Sandra Bullock starred in "The Lost City," a romantic comedy-adventure film opposite Channing Tatum. The film was a box-office success and marked a career milestone for Bullock.
August 5, 2023: Death of Bryan Randall
Bryan Randall, Sandra Bullock's partner, passed away on August 5, 2023, after battling ALS.