Julia Roberts is one of the most beloved and successful actresses in the history of American cinema. Born on October 28, 1967, in Smyrna, Georgia, Roberts began her acting career in the late 1980s, with early roles in television and minor films. However, it was her performance in "Steel Magnolias" (1989) that earned her widespread recognition. Playing the role of Shelby, a young woman battling diabetes, Roberts earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Her performance was a breakout moment, showcasing her ability to balance humor and pathos in a single role. Roberts’ career skyrocketed in the 1990s, particularly with her role in "Pretty Woman" (1990), a romantic comedy that became a worldwide hit. In the film, she played Vivian Ward, a prostitute who forms an unlikely romantic relationship with a wealthy businessman, played by Richard Gere. Roberts' charm, warmth, and comedic timing made the film a cultural phenomenon, and her portrayal of Vivian earned her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress. The success of "Pretty Woman" turned Roberts into one of Hollywood's most sought-after stars, and she quickly became known for her portrayals of independent, likable women navigating complicated romantic and personal situations. Throughout the 1990s, Roberts continued to dominate the box office with films such as "My Best Friend's Wedding" (1997), "Runaway Bride" (1999), and "Notting Hill" (1999), further cementing her status as the queen of romantic comedies. In 2000, she won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in "Erin Brockovich", where she portrayed the real-life environmental activist who helped bring down a major corporation accused of polluting a town’s water supply. Her portrayal of Brockovich was a departure from the romantic comedy roles that made her famous, showing that Roberts had the depth and range to take on more dramatic, socially conscious material. The 2000s saw Roberts expand her range even further with roles in films such as "Ocean’s Eleven" (2001) and its sequels, as well as "Closer" (2004), a complex drama in which she portrayed a woman caught in a web of infidelity and emotional manipulation. Her portrayal of the vulnerable but strong Anna in "Closer" earned her critical acclaim and solidified her place as one of the finest actresses of her generation. Roberts also continued to work in romantic comedies, with films such as "Mona Lisa Smile" (2003) and "Runaway Bride" (1999) resonating with audiences and critics alike. In addition to her acting career, Julia Roberts has become an influential figure in Hollywood behind the camera as well. She founded her own production company, Red Om Films, and has produced several of her own projects, including "The Last Song" (2010) and "August: Osage County" (2013). She also returned to television in the late 2010s with the drama series "Homecoming" (2018), which earned her critical praise for her portrayal of a caseworker involved in a shady government experiment. Julia Roberts’ enduring popularity can be attributed to her immense talent, her ability to bring heart and relatability to any role, and her down-to-earth persona off-screen. She remains one of the most bankable actresses in Hollywood, with an incredible range of performances in both comedy and drama. From her breakout role in "Pretty Woman" to her Oscar-winning turn in "Erin Brockovich", Roberts has built a lasting legacy as one of the most beloved and respected actresses of her generation.