Not Her Usual Look: Julia Roberts in August: Osage County
Julia Roberts, an actress long celebrated for her iconic glamour, sparkling smile, and effortlessly stylish red-carpet appearances, took a decidedly different path for her role as Barbara Weston in the 2013 film August: Osage County. Known to audiences worldwide for her radiant charm and elegant fashion sense, Julia surprised fans and critics alike by adopting a subdued and unassuming look that reflected the depth and complexity of her character.
Filming took place in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, a location that added a distinctly small-town, authentic atmosphere to the movie. To embody Barbara Weston, Julia abandoned the high-fashion outfits she is usually associated with and instead wore practical, everyday clothing. Her wardrobe included layered tops, simple jeans, and modest, somewhat dowdy attire. On set, she was frequently seen in a plain blue shirt paired with brown flared trousers. Her hair, usually styled in polished waves, was tied back into a simple ponytail, further emphasizing her character’s grounded and emotionally burdened persona. Every detail of her appearance was meticulously designed to strip away the usual Hollywood glamor and allow the audience to focus entirely on Barbara’s emotional journey.
The film itself was a star-studded ensemble, featuring other remarkable talents such as Benedict Cumberbatch in the role of Little Charles Aiken and the legendary Meryl Streep as Violet Weston. The dynamic between these characters, combined with Julia’s restrained portrayal, created a compelling and emotionally charged cinematic experience. Julia’s transformation highlighted her versatility as an actress, showing that she could convincingly inhabit a world far removed from the glitz and glamour typically associated with her public image.
The casting process for August: Osage County was filled with interesting developments. Originally, the producers had considered Renée Zellweger and Andrea Riseborough for key roles. Scheduling conflicts ultimately led Riseborough to drop out, opening the door for Juliette Lewis to step into the role of Karen Weston. Meanwhile, young Chloë Grace Moretz auditioned for the part of Jean Fordham, but the role eventually went to Abigail Breslin. These casting changes helped shape the ensemble, bringing together a mix of seasoned performers and emerging talent that enhanced the film’s depth and realism.
Julia’s choice to forgo her typical glamor was more than just a costume decision—it was a conscious effort to immerse herself fully into Barbara’s emotional landscape. The character of Barbara Weston required a performance that was understated yet deeply expressive, capturing the nuances of a woman grappling with family tension, personal grief, and the weight of responsibility. By removing the distraction of celebrity glamor, Julia allowed audiences to connect directly with Barbara’s struggles and vulnerabilities. Each scene she inhabited was charged with a quiet intensity, demonstrating her ability to convey complex emotions through subtle gestures, expressions, and tone of voice.
In the final film, Julia Roberts’ portrayal of Barbara Weston stood out not because of her star power, but because of her dedication to authenticity. She proved that true acting talent shines brightest when an actor is willing to submerge themselves entirely into a character, leaving behind the familiar trappings of fame and appearance. For fans and critics alike, this performance reaffirmed Julia’s status as one of the most versatile and respected actresses of her generation, capable of blending vulnerability, strength, and emotional resonance in every scene she touches.