Julia Roberts

Overview

Julia Fiona Roberts, born on October 28, 1967, in Smyrna, Georgia, is one of the most renowned and influential actresses of her generation. Known for her versatile and powerful performances, Roberts has captivated audiences with her roles in a wide range of films, from romantic comedies to dramatic portrayals. Here is a timeline of her significant life events and career milestones.

Main Milestones

Birth

October 28, 1967

Julia Fiona Roberts was born in Smyrna, Georgia, to parents who were both actors and ran a workshop for aspiring writers and performers. She was the youngest of three children, including her older brother Eric Roberts, who is also an actor.

High School Graduation and Move to New York

1985

After graduating from high school, Roberts moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. She initially lived with her sister, Lisa, and joined the family business by landing small roles and appearances.

First Major Role on TV

February 13, 1987

Roberts received her first major role on an episode of the TV series 'Crime Story,' titled 'The Survivor.' This appearance marked the beginning of her successful acting career and paved the way for future opportunities.

Breakthrough in 'Mystic Pizza'

1988

Roberts gained significant attention for her role as Daisy in the film 'Mystic Pizza.' This performance helped establish her as a rising star in Hollywood.

Acclaimed Performance in 'Steel Magnolias'

1989

Roberts starred in 'Steel Magnolias' alongside veteran actresses such as Shirley MacLaine, Olympia Dukakis, and Sally Field. Her portrayal of Shelby Eatenton Latcherie, a young woman battling diabetes, earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

Stardom with 'Pretty Woman'

1990

Roberts's role as Vivian Ward in 'Pretty Woman' catapulted her to superstardom. The film, an upbeat comedy about a romance between a prostitute and a business tycoon, was a huge box office hit and earned her a second Academy Award nomination.

Academy Award for 'Erin Brockovich'

2000

Roberts delivered a powerhouse performance as Erin Brockovich, a determined legal assistant who takes on a corporate giant accused of polluting a small town’s water supply. Her portrayal earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, solidifying her status as a force in the industry.

Marriage to Daniel Moder

2002

Roberts married cinematographer Daniel Moder, with whom she has three children. This marriage has been her longest and most enduring.

Continued Success and Diverse Roles

2010s

Throughout the 2010s, Roberts continued to appear in a variety of films, including 'Eat Pray Love,' 'August: Osage County,' 'Wonder,' and 'Mother’s Day.' These roles showcased her versatility and maintained her status as one of Hollywood’s top stars.

Recent Projects

2018

Roberts starred in the TV series 'Homecoming' and the film 'Ben Is Back,' further demonstrating her ability to excel in both television and film. These projects highlighted her ongoing influence and talent in the entertainment industry.