Julia Roberts, often dubbed the queen of romantic comedies, almost passed up one of her most beloved roles in “Notting Hill” for a rather unexpected reason. Throughout her illustrious career, Roberts has captivated audiences with her performances across various genres. Yet, romantic comedies have remained her forte, with hits like “Pretty Woman” and “My Best Friend’s Wedding” solidifying her status in the genre. Despite this, one of her most iconic roles was nearly left behind.
Roberts’ film career took off in the late 1980s, leading to a series of successful films throughout the 1990s and into the 2000s. Her magnetic presence on screen ensured continued success with recent works such as Netflix’s “Leave The World Behind” and “Ticket to Paradise.” However, it’s astonishing to realize that Roberts almost turned down the role of Anna Scott in “Notting Hill,” a film that grossed $364 million worldwide.
In “Notting Hill,” directed by Roger Michell and written by Richard Curtis, Roberts stars as Anna Scott, a famous Hollywood actress who unexpectedly falls for a humble London bookseller, played by Hugh Grant. The film received critical acclaim and multiple Golden Globe nominations, including a nod for Roberts as Best Actress in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy. Despite its success, Roberts was initially reluctant to accept the role, finding the idea of playing an actress mundane. She later revealed in an interview that she thought, “How boring. How tedious — what a stupid thing for me to do.”
Thankfully, Roberts decided to take on the role, and her portrayal of Anna Scott became one of her most memorable performances. Her real-life experience as a globally recognized actress lent authenticity to her character, enhancing the film’s exploration of fame’s complexities. Roberts’ on-screen chemistry with Hugh Grant and the charming script by Curtis made “Notting Hill” a standout romantic comedy that continues to resonate with audiences.
“Notting Hill” remains a testament to Roberts’ unique ability to blend charm and relatability, a skill that has made her a standout in the romantic comedy genre. The film’s success underscores how Roberts’ real-life stardom brought depth to her portrayal of Anna Scott, making the character’s struggles with fame more believable and poignant. This synergy between actor and character helped solidify “Notting Hill” as one of the great romantic comedies of its time.
