Julia Roberts, the queen of rom-coms, revealed in a new interview that she almost turned down her role in Notting Hill. The beloved romantic comedy, which also starred Hugh Grant, told the story of an American actress who falls for a London bookshop owner. The movie was a critical and commercial success, earning three Golden Globe nominations and becoming the highest-grossing British film ever. However, the Oscar winner was not initially as happy with the role and almost left it.
In a recent interview with Vogue, the Leave the World Behind actress opened up about her initial reservations about the movie. She said that she was worried about portraying a Hollywood star who was so popular and known to the public, but she managed to get over her initial discomfort quickly. Eventually, she said, she got to know her character, Anna Scott, so well that she became very comfortable in the role.
According to Roberts, she almost didn’t take the role because it “seemed so awkward” to play a movie actress, even though she felt that was precisely what the film needed to be about. She was also worried about interacting with the character of William Thacker, played by Grant because she thought she needed to sound ” trite to pull it off.
However, she ultimately accepted the role, and the rest is history. The film became a significant hit, and Roberts and Grant became a much-loved couple both in front of and behind the camera. They have since appeared in several movies, including Four Weddings and a Funeral, Bridget Jones’ Diary, and Love. They also have a real-life relationship and are often seen together in various public appearances.
The pair’s on-screen chemistry is undeniable, and their real-life romance has often been celebrated in the media. Despite this, there were some issues with the pair’s working relationship on set. Rumors have surfaced that they clashed frequently during production due to their disparate work styles and different approaches to acting.
Despite their differences, the pair created one of the most beloved romantic comedies ever. The movie combines all the elements that make an excellent rom-com: a charming script, an adorable leading lady, a hilarious supporting cast, and a meet-cute that will have you swooning. Hugh Grant’s bumbling persona and his foolproof British wit are also integral to the film’s success, and his effortless charm made him an instant fan favorite.
Besides Roberts and Grant, Notting Hill featured Rhys Ifans as Spike, a quirky and lovable roommate who instantly won over audiences. The film is available on Netflix and will be a staple in any movie lover’s library. To learn more about the history of Notting Hill, be sure to check out the whole article in this month’s issue of Vogue on newsstands and digital download from Jan 16. Try a 1-month subscription for free, then save one year for just $9!
