The Controversial Moment Between Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts
When Notting Hill dominated the box office globally in 1999, it quickly became one of the most beloved romantic comedies of all time. The film showcased the on-screen chemistry between a small bookstore owner of travel books and the world’s most beautiful Hollywood star, capturing the hearts of millions.
However, behind the scenes, not everything was smooth sailing for the actors involved. Hugh Grant, who played the bookstore owner, surprised fans with an unexpected comment about his co-star, Julia Roberts, who played his love interest. This moment occurred during a scene where her character confesses her feelings, and Grant’s reaction to their iconic kiss became a topic of discussion.
Hugh Grant’s Blunt Remarks About Julia Roberts’ “Big Mouth”
In 2004, Hugh Grant appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show to promote Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason. When asked about working with Julia Roberts, he took an unusual approach by avoiding typical praise. Instead, he said, “She has a very big mouth,” adding, “Physically, there’s a faint echo.”
Oprah, who knows Julia well, immediately defended her, explaining that this description was completely inaccurate. But Grant responded with a hint of sarcasm, saying, “I wouldn’t go quite that far.”
This statement became one of the most famous pop-culture anecdotes of the 2000s. It is believed that Grant’s honest and rather impolite comment sparked a long-standing feud between the two actors. Over the years, Grant continued to joke about the situation, even admitting that his jokes about the size of Roberts’ smile ruined any chance of reconciliation. As a result, they lost contact after the movie wrapped.
Grant Has Softened His Stance Over The Years
Even though Grant’s comment sounded like an insult, he has made efforts to downplay the severity of the situation in interviews and talk shows. In one episode of Watch What Happens Live, he reflected on his controversial remarks. He joked, “She might hate me forever. She may absolutely hate me by now.”
He then added a sincere compliment, stating that Roberts is still “very, very beautiful” and a professional on set. Interestingly, Roberts has shown kindness towards Grant. She eventually forgave him and even expressed a desire to work with him again in the future.
“I had a blast on Notting Hill. Even though he is cruel about my looks, he is a great talent, so it would be fun. He’s forgiven now,” she said. Despite the behind-the-scenes drama, Roberts remains a real American sweetheart.
The Legacy of the Notting Hill Cast
Julia Roberts’ ability to forgive and move forward highlights her remarkable character. Her positive attitude and professionalism have earned her widespread admiration. Meanwhile, Hugh Grant has also grown as a person over the years, showing more humility in his public statements.
Their experience serves as a reminder that even the most successful collaborations can have moments of tension. However, it also demonstrates the importance of forgiveness and understanding in the entertainment industry.
As fans continue to enjoy Notting Hill, the story of Grant and Roberts adds an interesting layer to the film’s legacy. It reminds us that while on-screen relationships can be magical, off-screen dynamics are often more complex.
