While many attribute success to a mix of talent and luck, the value of persistence and dedication remains undeniable. Julia Roberts hardest working ethic reflects this belief, as she recently expressed deep admiration for the actor she considers the most diligent in Hollywood. Her respect for persistent effort highlights how crucial hard work has been in shaping her own accomplished career.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Julia Roberts embarked on her acting journey inspired by her brother Eric, himself a multiple Golden Globe and Oscar nominee. After moving to New York in 1987 and starting with modeling, Roberts swiftly secured television roles before debuting on the big screen with the film Satisfaction, acting alongside Liam Neeson. Her breakthrough came shortly after with Mystic Pizza, and at just 22, she earned critical praise and Golden Globe and Oscar nominations for her role in Steel Magnolias, alongside celebrated actors such as Sally Field, Dolly Parton, and Shirley MacLaine.
Meryl Streep’s Influence on Julia Roberts
Another remarkable figure in Roberts’s career is Meryl Streep, whose early acclaim mirrors Roberts’s journey. Streep, known for her inspired performances and resilience in Hollywood, became both a professional role model and a source of personal guidance for Roberts, especially about balancing a demanding career with motherhood. Their shared experiences created a foundation for respect and mutual influence.

Career Milestones and Industry Impact
Roberts’s global stardom skyrocketed with the release of Pretty Woman in 1990, establishing her as one of the decade’s highest-paid and most sought-after talents. Meanwhile, Meryl Streep had a quieter 1990s but maintained excellence with several Oscar nominations, including for The Bridges of Madison County. Roberts’s first Oscar win came in 2001 for Erin Brockovich, while Streep continued to earn accolades, including an Oscar for her portrayal of Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady.
Collaboration in August: Osage County
It wasn’t until 2013 that Roberts and Streep appeared together in a major film, August: Osage County. This ensemble dramedy, produced by George Clooney and featuring British actors such as Ewan McGregor and Benedict Cumberbatch, focused on the turbulent dynamics of a family brought together under one roof. Despite modest box office results, both actresses received Oscar nominations for their roles as mother and daughter, underscoring their enduring relevance and talent.
Julia Roberts Highlights Meryl Streep’s Work Ethic
Roberts has openly praised Streep’s unmatched dedication to her craft. She stated,
“[She] showed that it is about working hard. Because I’ve never seen anyone work harder than she works. She doesn’t just snap her fingers and be a genius. She really is just the hardest-working girl in the room. I was so grateful to see that up close. To work with Meryl Streep is a dream come true for anyone. To know her is an honour. She is such a beautiful person, and it was intimidating, certainly, to be in these scenes with her.”
—Julia Roberts, Actress
Continuing Achievements and Future Projects
As the most Oscar-nominated actor in history, Meryl Streep’s illustrious career extends into upcoming projects such as the sequel to The Devil Wears Prada, set to premiere soon. Julia Roberts continues to expand her filmography, having recently finished working on the thriller Panic Carefully with Elizabeth Olsen. She is also confirmed for the upcoming Oceans 14, which reunites her with Brad Pitt and Matt Damon. Their ongoing contributions promise to maintain their influential statuses in the entertainment world.

