Julia Roberts was met with a rare and emotional standing ovation at the 83rd Golden Globe Awards, held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles—proving that her legacy continues to resonate powerfully across generations of artists and audiences.
Although Roberts did not take home a trophy on the night, the audience rose to its feet as she walked on stage to present an award, prompting a visibly touched reaction from the actress.
“Thank you,” Roberts said with a smile, playfully encouraging those still seated to stand. “Yup. Everybody! Let’s go! In the back! Come on!”
A Humorous, Heartfelt Moment
Leaning into the moment with her trademark wit, Roberts jokingly singled out Emma Stone, who appeared momentarily surprised by the spontaneous tribute. “She’s like, ‘What the hell is going on right now?’” Roberts quipped, drawing laughter from the room.
After the applause subsided, Roberts added with characteristic humour, “I’m gonna be impossible for at least a week. I appreciate that.” She went on to reflect on the significance of the evening, saying, “What a great night. What a beautiful night to be an artist. This is 2026. We’re going straight to the top on this.”
Presenting and Being Celebrated
Roberts presented Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another with its award, marking one of the ceremony’s most memorable moments.
Later in the evening, her longtime friend and frequent collaborator George Clooney took the stage to present the final award of the night, Best Motion Picture – Drama. Clooney was lightly teased by Don Cheadle for not receiving a standing ovation of his own—a moment that drew laughs and underscored the warmth of the evening.
Nominations and Peer Recognition
Julia Roberts was nominated for Best Actress in a Motion Picture for her performance in After the Hunt. The award ultimately went to Jessie Buckley for Hamnet. During her acceptance speech, Buckley paid tribute to Roberts, saying, “Oh my God, the incredible women I am honored to stand beside in this category. I mean, Julia Roberts—you are like a hero to us all.”
Red Carpet Elegance and a Storied Career
Roberts attended the ceremony alongside her husband of more than two decades, Danny Moder, though she walked the red carpet solo. She wore a plunging black gown paired with a striking crimson necklace, while Moder was later photographed inside the venue with her during the ceremony.
Over the course of her celebrated career, Roberts has won three Golden Globe Awards:
- Best Supporting Actress – Motion Picture for Steel Magnolias (1989)
- Best Actress – Motion Picture for Pretty Woman (1990)
- Best Actress – Motion Picture for Erin Brockovich (2000)
The standing ovation at the Golden Globes served as a reminder that, awards aside, Julia Roberts remains one of Hollywood’s most revered and enduring stars.
