Julia Roberts nailed her part in Erin Brockovich. It’s based on the true tale of Erin Brockovich, a single mother who sued a large corporation over water pollution, and Roberts brings her to life in a way that feels authentic and inspiring.
And, while Erin Brockovich is a masterpiece, it is not without its quirks and behind-the-scenes entertainment! Here are some humorous facts, blunders, and hidden truths about the film that you might not be aware of:
The real Erin Brockovich’s cameo
One of the best small surprises in Erin Brockovich is the waitress at the opening of the film—and she’s no ordinary actress. It’s the genuine Erin Brockovich! When Julia Roberts and her children visit a snack restaurant, the actual Erin appears as a blonde server.
Did you catch another hidden cameo?
While many fans are aware that Erin Brockovich makes a cameo appearance in the film, there is a lesser-known twist: her real-life lawyer, Ed Masry, also appears.
In the same cafe scene where Erin portrays a waitress, the film’s Ed Masry, played by Albert Finney, can be seen seated in the background.
Erin Brockovich cleavage
The real Erin Brockovich-Ellis once stated that the film was 98-99% factual.
However, while the film does an excellent job of portraying Erin’s narrative, a few details are left out. For example, the real Erin Brockovich-Ellis has stated that, while her cleavage attracted some attention, she never used her attractiveness to manipulate anyone, as the film implies.
Despite the scrutiny of her look and language, the real Erin remained focused on what was genuinely important – the lives of those harmed by toxic poisoning.
The mix-up with Miss Pacific Coast
In the film, Erin Brockovich is also supposed to have won Miss Wichita, while in reality, she was Miss Pacific Coast.
Erin herself pointed out this minor error, chuckling about it while reminiscing on her decision to quit the world of beauty pageants, which she found “shallow.”
Erin Brockovich’s one complaint about the movie
Before the screening, Erin Brockovich and Julia Roberts had a conversation in which Erin joked about Julia’s skirts in the film being too long.
This funny comment was later validated by Steven Soderbergh, the film’s director. “When Erin saw the movie,” he told me, “she said, ‘The only thing that was inaccurate is that the skirts weren’t short enough.'”
Julia Roberts’ Wardrobe Journey in Erin Brockovich
Julia Roberts may have nailed her Oscar-winning performance in Erin Brockovich, but dressing like the real-life activist revealing wardrobe had its own set of obstacles. Although Roberts knew the historical truth of the daring clothes, she was first concerned that they would appear too extravagant for the screen.
Once Roberts realized how important Erin’s wardrobe was to her character’s personality, she accepted the challenge.
However, adjusting to the wardrobe (or lack thereof) was not without its challenges. Even the film crew took time to adjust to her onscreen makeover.
Did Erin Brockovich date George?
Aaron Eckhart’s character, George, the motorcycle boyfriend, was based on Erin Brockovich-Ellis’ real-life Mexican-American boyfriend, Jorge Halaby.
Erin met the long-haired, Harley-riding biker in the early 1990s, right after her second divorce, when she was only 25 years old. While the two separated during Erin’s journey, Jorge remained a significant part of her life.
The real George had a brain tumor and d.i.e.d
In a 2020 interview with Vulture, Erin Brockovich shared a highly personal and painful revelation about Jorge, the guy who had played such a vital role in her and her children’s lives.
Jorge d.i.e.d after suffering a brain tumor.
Albert Finney initially turned down the film
Albert Finney did not overpower Julia Roberts, but he held his own with a witty and engaging performance. The chemistry between Finney and Roberts was pure magic, demonstrating the casting team’s skill.
Finney’s performances, whether as Poirot, Daddy Warbucks, or Ed Masry, were always loaded with charm, humor, and, when necessary, malice.
Many fans may not be aware that Finney first rejected the part. Danny DeVito, one of the film’s producers, stepped in. DeVito persuaded Finney’s girlfriend to reconsider by proposing to rearrange all of his scenes to be shot closer together, allowing Finney to spend less time in Los Angeles. Fortunately, the plan worked, and Finney’s performance remains a highlight of the film, cementing his legacy as one of cinema’s finest talents.
Julia Roberts’ salary in Erin Brockovich
Julia Roberts did more than just light up the screen in the film—she created Hollywood history! Roberts earned a record-breaking $20 million for her major part, becoming the first woman to break over that compensation barrier.
Did you spot the timeline slip?
If you have a keen eye, you may notice an amusing detail in a scene with George and Erin’s children. They’re playing Monopoly: Harley-Davidson Authorized Edition around 1 hour and 7 minutes in, although the game wasn’t released until 1997, a few years after the movie’s setting!
Erin Brockovich today
Erin Brockovich is now more than just a household name; she is also a vibrant media personality who is committed to bringing justice to those in need. She hosts ABC’s Challenge America with Erin Brockovich and Zone Reality’s Final Justice, motivating people with her determination to overcome adversity.
Along with her media work, Erin is the president of Brockovich Research & Consulting, where she assists persons affected by environmental challenges.
She also works as a consultant for the prominent New York legal firm Weitz & Luxenberg, which specializes in personal injury cases resulting from asbestos exposure, and with Shine Lawyers in Australia.
As of 2024, Erin Brockovich resides in Agoura Hills, California, in a mansion she bought in 1996 with the $2.5 million bonus she received following the Hinkley settlement.
Erin Brockovich’s husband & kids
Erin’s first marriage to Shawn Brown ended in div:orce, and she later married Steven Brockovich, with whom she has a daughter, Beth.
After their divorce, Erin married her third husband, actor and country musician DJ Eric L. Ellis.
Aside from her professional accomplishments, Erin is a devoted mother to three children: Matthew, a son, and Katie, a daughter, from her first marriage to Shawn Brown, and Elizabeth (“Beth”), from her second marriage to Steven Brockovich.
