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Before it becomes a classic romantic comedy“Notting Hill” almost lost its biggest star, Julia Roberts.
Roberts, 58, said she initially dismissed the film as “so stupid,” questioning the premise before discovering the charm that ultimately convinced her to sign on.
“God, I just remember when my agent called me about ‘Notting Hill’ and I was like, ‘Well, this sounds like the stupidest idea of any movie I could do. I’m going to play the biggest movie star in the world, and what do I do? And then what happens? It seems so stupid,” she recalled in an interview with Deadline.
“And then I read the script and I was like, ‘Oh. This is so charming. This is so funny. Oh, shit.'”
Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant on the set of Roger Michell’s “Notting Hill” in London, 1998. (Dave Bennett/Getty Images)
Still, Roberts wasn’t completely convinced she was going to say yes to the role.
She agreed to meet Richard Curtis, who wrote the screenplay for “Notting Hill,” producer Duncan Kenworthy and director Roger Michell, with the intention of refusing.
The film tells the story of a famous actress, Anna Scott, played by Roberts, who begins a romantic relationship with the divorced William Thacker, played by Hugh Grant, after they meet during his visit to his bookstore. (Getty Images)
“And then I went to lunch with Richard [Curtis] And [producer] Duncan [Kenworthy] and beloved Roger Michell – may he rest in peace.
JULIA ROBERTS REVEALS Hollywood STAR She Was ‘Scared’ and ‘Intimidated’ To Meet Her
His intention was clear from the start: “No, it won’t work. I’m giving up this movieBut the meeting didn’t go as planned, Roberts said.
“And they were so charming and sweet and funny. And I was like, ‘Wow, this is really going to happen.'”
Hugh Grant played the role of William Thacker in “Notting Hill”. (Getty Images)
She added: “And we had a great time doing it. The casting was perfect. [by Mary Selway]all friends, everyone. It was so awesome. And we had a great time. And I think Roger just created the film in such a way that it succeeded in every moment. He achieved his goals every time…”
Roberts then stopped during the interview and laughed, suddenly remembering a detail she loved about “Notting Hill.”
“Alex Baldwin!” she exclaimed. “It’s great casting.”
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In May 2024, the iconic romantic comedy celebrated the 25th anniversary of its release.
Roberts was already a two-time Oscar nominee for her roles in “Steel Magnolias” and “Pretty Woman,” and had starred in classics like “Mystic Pizza” and “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” before taking on the role in “Notting Hill.” (Scott A. Garfitt/Invision/AP)
The film tells the story of a famous actress, Anna Scott, played by Roberts, who begins a romantic relationship with the divorced William Thacker, played by Hugh Grant, after they meet during his visit to his bookstore.
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Roberts was already twice Oscar nominated for her roles in “Steel Magnolias” and “Pretty Woman,” and had starred in classics like “Mystic Pizza” and “My Best Friend’s Wedding” before taking on the role in “Notting Hill.”
She went on to star in several other hits, including “Runaway Bride” and “Erin Brockovich,” which earned her an Oscar and a BAFTA win.
