Julia Roberts, one of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars, took audiences by surprise with a dramatically different look while filming intense scenes for August: Osage County. Known around the world for her glamorous image and her iconic role as Vivian Ward in Pretty Woman, Roberts completely stepped away from that polished persona for this emotionally demanding performance.
While filming in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, she appeared intentionally casual and unpolished. She wore relaxed blue jeans, a simple cream top layered with a white shirt, and minimal styling. Her long hair was left naturally messy, reflecting the emotional chaos experienced by her character, Barbara Weston.
The change in appearance was more than just a costume choice. Roberts portrayed Barbara as a woman struggling to hold her deeply troubled family together after her alcoholic father disappears. The role required her to focus on vulnerability and realism rather than the glamorous appearance audiences usually associate with her.
During one particularly emotional scene, Roberts walked toward a boat dock alongside her co-star, who portrayed her estranged husband. A sheriff accompanied them as they faced the heartbreaking task of identifying a body.
As the scene unfolded, Barbara became overwhelmed with grief and collapsed emotionally. Her husband tried to comfort her as she cried uncontrollably, creating one of the film’s most powerful moments.
The performance captured the heart of August: Osage County—a turbulent family filled with painful secrets, complicated relationships, and emotions that can no longer remain hidden.