Throughout the 1990s, Julia Roberts became one of Hollywood’s most beloved and recognizable stars, earning the title of “America’s Sweetheart.” Her breakout role in Pretty Woman (1990) catapulted her to international fame, with her portrayal of the charming and independent Vivian Ward redefining the modern romantic heroine. Roberts’s radiant smile, natural charisma, and relatable vulnerability made her a standout in a decade filled with rising stars. Films like Steel Magnolias (1989, still resonating into the early ’90s), Sleeping with the Enemy (1991), and My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997) showcased her versatility — moving effortlessly between drama, romance, and comedy while maintaining her signature authenticity.

By the late ’90s, Roberts had solidified her status as a box office powerhouse and cultural icon. Her role in Notting Hill (1999) opposite Hugh Grant further cemented her reputation as the queen of romantic comedies, combining warmth, wit, and emotional depth. Beyond her on-screen success, her personal life and distinctive red carpet style kept her in the public eye, influencing fashion and media throughout the decade. By the time the 1990s ended, Julia Roberts wasn’t just a movie star — she was a symbol of confidence, independence, and enduring Hollywood glamour.