Since its debut in 1990, Pretty Woman has become a beloved romantic comedy, captivating audiences with its unforgettable performances, emotional depth, and timeless charm. Starring Julia Roberts as Vivian Ward and Richard Gere as Edward Lewis, the film’s unexpected mix of humor and romance made it a global hit. But beyond the iconic scenes and polished final cut lies a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes details that offer deeper insight into its production, casting, and chemistry.

This article takes a closer look at some of the most interesting and verified facts about Pretty Woman, including casting choices, wardrobe surprises, and moments from the recently resurfaced blooper reel that showcase the camaraderie between cast and crew.

Casting Choices: Who Almost Played Edward and Vivian?

Before Richard Gere was officially cast as the suave businessman Edward Lewis, several other A-list actors were reportedly considered for the role. According to The Hollywood Reporter and Vanity Fair, actors such as Christopher Reeve, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Denzel Washington were either approached or discussed during the early development phase.

Richard Gere initially declined the role. However, it was Julia Roberts who ultimately convinced him to accept it. During a 2015 cast reunion interview with TODAY, Roberts recalled writing a note to Gere during their audition together, urging him to “please say yes.” That decision would solidify their on-screen chemistry and help the film become a box office success.

Similarly, the role of Vivian Ward, which won Julia Roberts a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination, was offered to or considered by several actresses before Roberts was cast. According to Entertainment Weekly, Sarah Jessica Parker, Sandra Bullock, and Kristin Davis were reportedly considered during pre-production.

A Look at the Film’s Wardrobe: Luxury Meets Simplicity

The film’s wardrobe has become iconic in its own right, particularly the famous red evening gown and the thigh-high boots worn by Roberts’ character. Interestingly, one of the most expensive pieces used in filming was a $250,000 necklace worn in a key scene. This piece was loaned by a luxury jewelry brand and was monitored closely by an on-set security team throughout the shoot.

In contrast, some of the film’s other wardrobe items had humble origins. For instance, Vivian’s red jacket—seen early in the film—was reportedly purchased for just $30. According to director Garry Marshall in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the coat was sourced last-minute from a movie theater usher when other options didn’t feel quite right.

These contrasting wardrobe elements helped enhance the transformation theme at the heart of Vivian’s story—balancing realism with elegance in a way that resonated with audiences.

The Blooper Reel: A Glimpse of the On-Set Atmosphere

In 2024, fans were treated to a rare release of the film’s blooper reel, providing insight into the joyful and relaxed environment on set. The outtakes include lighthearted moments between Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, where their laughter during emotional or romantic scenes shows the ease of their working relationship.

One memorable blooper features Roberts struggling to stay in character during a serious moment, prompting both her and Gere to break into laughter. The moment underscores the natural chemistry between the two leads—something that critics and audiences frequently cite as a cornerstone of the film’s enduring appeal.

According to Entertainment Tonight, the blooper reel was part of an anniversary release package that also included cast commentary, deleted scenes, and interviews with director Garry Marshall.

Directing Techniques: Creating Natural Performances

To maintain authenticity during emotionally sensitive scenes, director Garry Marshall used creative techniques to put his actors at ease. In various interviews, including one with The Guardian, Marshall described his collaborative approach with Roberts and Gere, noting that he sometimes took unorthodox steps to help actors feel relaxed.

For instance, during a scene in which Julia Roberts appeared visibly tense, Marshall encouraged her through off-camera gestures and direction. He even admitted to gently rubbing her forehead to reduce visible signs of anxiety—such as a vein that appeared under pressure.

This hands-on approach contributed to the spontaneous, heartfelt performances that made the film such a success.

Iconic Scenes and Memorable Trivia

One of the most talked-about scenes in Pretty Woman—when Edward presents Vivian with a necklace and then playfully snaps the box shut—was not originally scripted. According to Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in multiple interviews, including their appearance on The TODAY Show, this was an improvised moment that director Garry Marshall kept in the film because of Roberts’ genuine reaction, which added to the scene’s charm.

Another little-known fact is that luxury car brands like Ferrari and Porsche reportedly declined to have their vehicles featured in the film due to its original script tone. As a result, the now-iconic Lotus Esprit SE was used instead—an appearance that boosted the car’s visibility and sales in the early 1990s.

Global Impact and Legacy

Pretty Woman was released in March 1990 and became a box office hit, earning over $460 million worldwide. It also launched Julia Roberts into superstardom and redefined the romantic comedy genre. The film’s success inspired stage adaptations and remains one of the most watched rom-coms on streaming platforms today.

In 2015, the cast reunited for the film’s 25th anniversary and spoke about their fond memories and the unexpected legacy of the film. Richard Gere described the experience as “magical,” and Roberts praised the “collaborative and supportive” environment on set.

Source: Vanity Fair, Entertainment Tonight, TODAY Show

Conclusion: Why Pretty Woman Still Resonates

More than three decades after its release, Pretty Woman remains a timeless favorite, thanks to its strong performances, heartfelt story, and a behind-the-scenes process filled with laughter, creativity, and dedication. From iconic bloopers to legendary casting decisions and wardrobe surprises, the film’s enduring success lies in the details—many of which fans are still discovering today.

Whether you’re revisiting the film for the first time in years or exploring its rich history for the first time, Pretty Woman continues to prove why it holds a cherished place in cinematic history.

Verified Sources:

• The Hollywood Reporter
• Entertainment Weekly
• Vanity Fair
• TODAY Show
• Entertainment Tonight
• American Film Institute