Here are a few genuine acts of kindness and philanthropy by Julia Roberts—demonstrating her generosity both on and off the screen:
On-Set Kindness & Personal Support
Myha’la Herrold, Roberts’ co-star in Leave the World Behind, shared how Jules gently massaged her hand during a particularly painful headache on set. She recalled: “She grabbed my hand and massaged [a trigger point right here]. … It was such a clear gesture to say, ‘We are safe here together’.”
People.com
Julia Stiles, who worked with Roberts on Mona Lisa Smile, praised her for her maternal instincts, recalling how Julia “took care of all the girls” on set, creating a nurturing and kind environment.
In a more recent reflection, Stiles revealed that Roberts offered her inspiring and compassionate advice during a difficult time around body image. Julia encouraged self-acceptance, reminding her that youth often overlooks its own beauty—a deeply caring gesture.
Charitable Campaigns & Causes
Julia partnered with Omaze on a “Choose Kind” t-shirt campaign to raise funds for PACER, a nonprofit dedicated to ending bullying and supporting people with disabilities. She lent her voice and popularity to promote kindness and inclusion.
A longtime supporter of GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network), Roberts has auctioned lunches to benefit their Respect Awards, encouraged donations on her birthdays, and used her platform to emphasize the importance of safe, affirming schools for all students.
Broader Philanthropic Work
In 1995, Roberts visited Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to learn firsthand about UNICEF’s work—a move that encouraged a $10 million aid push. She’s also narrated a documentary about Rett syndrome to raise awareness and served as spokesperson and advisory board member for Earth Biofuels.
She has participated in charity events honoring Paul Newman, including performances in San Francisco to benefit The Painted Turtle, a specialty camp for children with life-threatening illnesses.
Her humanitarian efforts include supporting The Normal Heart on HBO and receiving the Award of Courage at an amfAR Gala for her work in raising AIDS awareness and kindness.
In a deeply touching memory, Roberts revealed that Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King paid for her parents’ hospital bill after her birth. This act was rooted in friendship and mutual trust—her parents ran a theater school that the Kings’ children attended. As Julia reflected, “It sort of lays the groundwork for who you are.”
In Summary
Julia Roberts’ kindness spans personal gestures—like comforting actors on set and offering guidance to younger colleagues—to major philanthropic efforts including anti-bullying campaigns, LGBTQ+ advocacy, documentary narration, global relief, and honoring humanitarian legacies. Her story even reflects a foundational act of compassion that influenced her own compassion: the generosity shown to her family at birth.
