“Pretty Woman,” released in 1990, is a beloved romantic comedy that catapulted Julia Roberts and Richard Gere to stardom. While many adore the film, numerous behind-the-scenes secrets remain unknown to fans. For instance, Disney initially considered dropping Julia Roberts, but director Garry Marshall fought for her casting. Another memorable moment—when Edward surprises Vivian with a diamond necklace—was improvised by Gere.
The iconic red jacket worn by Vivian wasn’t originally part of the script; a crew member spotted a woman on the street wearing it and bought it for $30. Interestingly, Julia Roberts had limited driving skills at the time but managed to pull off driving scenes well. Richard Gere’s musical talent also shone through as he played the piano himself, adding authenticity to his character.
Despite its romantic theme, filming had its challenges. Julia was quite nervous during intimate scenes, often requiring breaks to relax. Notably, some scenes were shot in actual Beverly Hills locations, enhancing the film’s authenticity. Originally, the script was darker, titled “3000,” but the concept was altered to fit a more upbeat narrative.
The film’s success was unprecedented, grossing $464 million and earning Roberts a Golden Globe for her performance. Initially, Molly Ringwald was offered the role of Vivian but turned it down, a decision she later regretted. Ultimately, “Pretty Woman” remains a timeless classic with a fascinating production history.