While talent and good fortune play significant roles in achieving success, the old adage that hard work is irreplaceable remains true, as noted by Julia Roberts. Roberts, who understands this firsthand, was deeply impressed by working alongside an actor she considers the hardest working in Hollywood.
Julia Roberts’ Rapid Rise in Acting
Julia Roberts’ journey in acting began after she decided to follow in the footsteps of her brother Eric, himself a Golden Globe and Oscar nominee. After moving to New York in 1987, Roberts quickly secured a modeling contract before landing small TV roles. That same year, she debuted in the film Satisfaction alongside Liam Neeson.
Roberts achieved moderate success with the comedy Mystic Pizza and then made a significant breakthrough in 1989 with Steel Magnolias, which featured prominent performers like Sally Field, Dolly Parton, and Shirley MacLaine. At just 22 years old, she earned Golden Globe and Oscar nominations, establishing her as a rising star.
The Influence of Meryl Streep on Julia Roberts
Another early Oscar winner, Meryl Streep, who had her debut in a film named Julia, became a key role model for Roberts both professionally and personally. Beyond acting advice, Streep guided Roberts on how to raise children under the pressures of Hollywood’s demanding environment.
Comparison of Career Trajectories in the 1990s and 2000s
Roberts’ career soared with the blockbuster Pretty Woman in 1990, eventually becoming one of the highest-paid actors by decade’s end. In contrast, Meryl Streep’s 1990s were quieter despite her previous critical acclaim. She had several Oscar nominations but fewer commercial successes, with The Bridges of Madison County being a notable hit.
Roberts won the Best Actress Oscar in 2001 for Erin Brockovich, while Streep maintained consistent quality roles and secured another Oscar win as Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady (2011). It was not until 2013, however, that Roberts and Streep starred together in the ensemble drama August: Osage County, which earned both actresses Oscar nominations despite moderate box office returns.
Julia Roberts Honors Meryl Streep’s Work Ethic
Roberts became close friends with Streep and has spoken highly of her extraordinary commitment to her craft. She stated,
“[She] showed that it is about working hard. Because I’ve never seen anyone work harder than she works. She doesn’t just snap her fingers and be a genius. She really is just the hardest-working girl in the room. I was so grateful to see that up close. To work with Meryl Streep is a dream come true for anyone. To know her is an honour. She is such a beautiful person, and it was intimidating, certainly, to be in these scenes with her.” Julia Roberts, Actress
Current and Upcoming Projects for Streep and Roberts
Meryl Streep currently holds the record as the most Oscar-nominated actor in film history, with her latest nod for 2017’s political drama The Post. She is expected to return to the big screen soon with the highly anticipated The Devil Wears Prada 2, scheduled for release in May.
Meanwhile, Julia Roberts has just completed work on the thriller Panic Carefully, starring alongside Elizabeth Olsen. She is also confirmed to star in the upcoming Oceans 14, joining forces again with Brad Pitt and Matt Damon, signaling her continued prominence in major Hollywood productions.
