In a recent interview for her British Vogue cover debut, Julia Roberts shared her perspective on why she chooses not to disrobe on screen, emphasizing the importance of representing women who may feel pressured to expose themselves in films.
The 56-year-old actress conveyed to screenwriter Richard Curtis that her decision to refrain from n^dty or physical vulnerability in movies is a personal choice aimed at empowering herself and other women.
Roberts hinted at a possible genetic influence, mentioning her exploration of her ancestry with Finding Your Roots host Dr. Henry Gates, through which she discovered a familial link to feminist icon Gloria Steinem.
She further disclosed that her reluctance to appear unclothed on screen was partly motivated by her role as a mother, expressing that such scenes do not align with her identity and values as a parent.
Reflecting on her career, Roberts candidly admitted that she nearly declined a significant role in the beloved 1999 romantic comedy ‘Notting Hill’, penned by Curtis himself.
Describing the experience as challenging, she confessed, “Playing a movie actress was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to do.
It felt incredibly uncomfortable to me.”
Despite reservations, Roberts ultimately accepted the role but struggled to embody the character convincingly.
Regarding a pivotal scene in the film where her character declares, “I’m just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her,” Roberts shared an amusing anecdote about her attire.
Uncomfortable with the extravagant Hollywood wardrobe, she opted to wear her personal clothing, including flip-flops, a blue velvet skirt, a T-shirt, and a cardigan sourced from her own closet.
Recalling the day of filming, Roberts humorously recounted instructing her driver to retrieve her preferred outfit from her residence, highlighting her desire for comfort and authenticity in portraying the character.