Julia Roberts, long known for her radiant smile and glamorous on-screen presence, was nearly unrecognizable while filming her role in August: Osage County, a dramatic departure from her iconic portrayal of Vivian Ward in the 1990 classic Pretty Woman. On a filming day in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Roberts was spotted shooting a powerful emotional scene alongside Ewan McGregor, both actors embodying their characters with raw intensity.
Julia’s transformation was dramatic—her face was stripped of makeup, her usually styled brunette hair left loose and natural, and her wardrobe intentionally unflattering. Wearing layered tops—a white shirt over a cream undershirt—and loose blue jeans, she looked worlds away from the glamorous star we’re used to seeing on red carpets. In this role, she portrays Barbara Weston, a member of a deeply troubled family brought together by the sudden disappearance of their alcoholic patriarch. The powerful scene in question had Roberts and McGregor, who plays Bill Fordham, walking down to a boat dock, hand in hand, in a moment filled with tension and dread. They were preparing to identify a dead body presented by a local sheriff, an emotionally charged moment in the film.
As the body is revealed, Julia’s character breaks down into tears, completely overtaken by grief. She sobs uncontrollably, clinging to McGregor’s character for support, delivering a gut-wrenching performance that showcases her incredible range and emotional depth. Despite the intensity of the scene, between takes Julia quickly transitioned from tears to laughter, seen sharing a lighthearted moment with co-star Julianne Nicholson. Nicholson, who was also on set for the scene, seemed to be pointing something funny out, leading Julia and others to burst into laughter, proving the camaraderie among the cast during such heavy material.
Nicholson, known for her work on Boardwalk Empire, was also dressed to fit the tone of the film. She wore a modest blue shirt and brown flared trousers, with her hair pulled back into a simple ponytail, embracing the grounded, rural aesthetic that defines the film’s style. August: Osage County, released in 2013, brought together a powerhouse cast to tell the story of a dysfunctional family forced to confront their long-standing issues in the wake of a personal tragedy. In addition to Roberts and McGregor, the ensemble included Meryl Streep as Violet Weston, the sharp-tongued matriarch, and Benedict Cumberbatch as Little Charles Aiken.
The film’s IMDb page reveals that several notable actresses were initially considered for roles in the movie. Renée Zellweger and Andrea Riseborough were both in discussions for parts, with Riseborough eventually cast but dropping out due to scheduling conflicts. She was later replaced by Juliette Lewis, who took on the role of Karen Weston. Rising star Chloë Moretz also auditioned for the part of Jean Fordham, the daughter of Barbara and Bill, but the role ultimately went to Abigail Breslin. For Roberts, this film marked a significant turn in her career—a move away from the romantic comedies and lighter dramas that made her a household name. Her role as Barbara Weston demanded vulnerability, grit, and the willingness to look completely unglamorous for the sake of authenticity. Her layered costume, emotional range, and willingness to embrace the rawness of the character highlight her dedication to the craft. Even though she was virtually unrecognizable on set, her presence was as commanding as ever. This behind-the-scenes glimpse reminds us of the often invisible transformation actors undergo to fully embody their characters. Julia Roberts, once again, proved why she remains one of Hollywood’s most respected and enduring talents.
