Dolly Parton's Humble Advice Silenced Julia Roberts on "Steel Magnolias" Set, Resurfaced Interview Reveals

Julia Roberts Recalls Dolly Parton's Enduring Wisdom on "Steel Magnolias" Set A recently resurfaced clip from a 1989 interview on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" has offered a heartwarming glimpse into the early career of Julia Roberts and the profound influence of country music legend Dolly Parton. Roberts, then a rising star, recounted a pivotal conversation with Parton during the filming of their iconic movie, "Steel Magnolias." Roberts described a hot day on set where many cast members were complaining about the heat. "Everybody had like ice on their wrists and doing the whole thing and everybody was like, you know, it's hot, could I get some water," Roberts explained. She noted that Dolly Parton, however, remained silent. Roberts eventually approached Parton, asking how she could endure the heat without complaint, especially with her elaborate wig and attire. Parton's response, delivered with her characteristic grace and humility, left a lasting impression on Roberts. Roberts recalled Parton saying, "When I was a little girl, I wanted to be famous and I wanted to be rich, and now I'm both those things. I'm not going to complain about it." Roberts admitted, "I thought, okay, I'm going to be quiet for the rest of the day." She added that Parton's words continue to resonate with her, serving as a reminder whenever she feels inclined to grumble. "Every time I go to like complain or just kind of moan, I always hear Dolly sitting on the porch and saying that, and it kind of like keeps you quiet," Roberts stated. The clip underscores Parton's well-known philosophy of gratitude and hard work, a sentiment echoed by fans in comments praising Parton as a "National Treasure" and highlighting her unwavering humility despite her success. The interview provides a charming historical footnote to the making of "Steel Magnolias" and the enduring legacy of its stars.

British Vogue

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