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Julia Roberts Says She Nearly Passed On Notting Hill Before the Script Changed Her Mind

In a new Deadline interview, she says Richard Curtis’ screenplay plus a persuasive lunch with the creative team changed her mind.

Overview

  • Roberts recalls thinking the premise sounded like “the dumbest idea” and says she initially intended to decline the role.
  • Reading Curtis’ script convinced her the story was “so charming” and “so funny,” prompting a reconsideration.
  • She met writer Richard Curtis, producer Duncan Kenworthy, and late director Roger Michell to pass in person but left committed to the film.
  • Roberts praises the experience as “beautiful,” crediting casting director Mary Selway and Michell’s direction for its success.
  • The remarks, published Jan. 6 by Deadline and picked up by outlets including Entertainment Weekly and Bustle, echo her 2024 note that playing an actress felt unusually challenging.