A long line of artistes, including Michelle Pfeiffer, Molly Ringwald, Meg Ryan, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Karen Allen, and Daryl Hannah turned down the lead role in the Cinderella/Pygmalionesque story, “Pretty Woman” (1990) against Richard Gere.

Julia Roberts eventually won the role, and it cemented her place in the hearts of millions, as well as in the industry.

The role also earned her a second Oscar nomination, this time as Best Actress, (the previous being Best Supporting Actress in 1989 the film “Steel Magnolias”) and second Golden Globe Award win, as Motion Picture Best Actress (Musical or Comedy).