Renowned actress Julia Roberts recently shared her thoughts on her iconic role in the 1990 romantic comedy Pretty Woman, expressing that she could not portray the character today. At 22, Roberts starred alongside Richard Gere in the film, which became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $463 million globally. Now at 58, she reflects on how time and experiences have altered her perspective on the character of Vivian Ward.
In an interview with Deadline, Roberts explained, “Oh, it’s impossible. I have too many years of the weight of the world inside of me now that I wouldn’t be able to kind of levitate in a movie like that, right?” She emphasized that her life experiences have changed her ability to embody the innocence required for the role, noting, “I think there was an innocence to her, a kind of… I guess it’s just being young.”
Roberts acknowledged that the way audiences view Pretty Woman has evolved over the years. She remarked, “Well, I think anytime you have a huge passage of time and cultural shifts… Think about all the movies and plays of the ’20s and ’30s and ’40s — you would look at them now and just be like, ‘How are people saying these things, doing these things?’” This reflection highlights how societal norms and perceptions can reshape the understanding of classic films.
Currently, Roberts is promoting her upcoming film, After the Hunt, set to release in 2025. In this film, she portrays a college professor embroiled in a serious issue when a student accuses a fellow professor of sexual assault. This role has earned her a nomination for a Golden Globe for Best Actress, indicating her continued relevance and evolution as an actress in the film industry.
As Roberts continues to navigate her career, her insights into Pretty Woman offer a glimpse into how the passage of time impacts not only personal growth but also the way we interpret art and its implications in contemporary society.
