Julia Roberts, one of Hollywood’s most beloved actresses, has been married to Daniel Moder, a talented cinematographer, for over two decades. Their relationship, which began on the set of the 2000 film The Mexican, has remained strong despite the pressures of fame, making them one of the most enduring couples in the entertainment industry. With a private yet fulfilling family life, Roberts and Moder have managed to maintain a stable and loving marriage, a rare feat in Hollywood.
How Julia Roberts and Daniel Moder Met
Julia Roberts and Daniel Moder first crossed paths in 2000, while working together on the set of The Mexican, a romantic comedy starring Roberts and Brad Pitt. At the time, Roberts was already a major Hollywood star, known for her roles in Pretty Woman, Notting Hill, and Erin Brockovich (for which she won an Academy Award). Moder, on the other hand, was an established cinematographer working behind the scenes as a cameraman.
Their connection was instant, but there was a significant hurdle—Moder was married at the time. However, after finalizing his divorce, he and Roberts started dating, and their love story quickly blossomed. The couple tied the knot on July 4, 2002, in a private ceremony held at Julia Roberts’ ranch in Taos, New Mexico. The wedding was an intimate affair, attended only by close friends and family, reflecting the couple’s preference for privacy.
Building a Private Family Life Away from Hollywood’s Spotlight
Despite being one of the most famous actresses in the world, Roberts has made it a priority to keep her personal life out of the public eye. Unlike many Hollywood couples who frequently make headlines, she and Moder have chosen to maintain a low-key lifestyle, focusing on their family rather than constant media attention.
The couple has three children together:
- Twins Phinnaeus (Finn) and Hazel Moder – Born in 2004, the twins have largely grown up away from the spotlight. However, Hazel made a rare public appearance at the Cannes Film Festival in 2021, accompanying her father, Daniel Moder, to a film premiere.
- Henry Moder – Their youngest son, Henry, was born in 2007. Like his older siblings, Henry has been raised with a sense of normalcy, away from the Hollywood limelight.
Roberts has often spoken about the importance of family values and how she prioritizes motherhood over her acting career. In interviews, she has emphasized that despite her global fame, at home she is just a regular mom, dedicated to raising her children with love and care.
Daniel Moder: The Man Behind the Camera
While Julia Roberts is one of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood, Daniel Moder has largely stayed behind the scenes, focusing on his career as a cinematographer. His film credits include:
- Secret in Their Eyes (2015)
- The Normal Heart (2014)
- Fireflies in the Garden (2008)
Moder has gained respect in the film industry for his talent and dedication, but unlike many celebrity spouses, he prefers to stay out of the public eye. This balance has helped the couple maintain a healthy and stable relationship, avoiding much of the media scrutiny that affects other high-profile Hollywood marriages.
The Secret to Their Long-Lasting Marriage
With over 20 years of marriage, Julia Roberts and Daniel Moder have defied the odds in an industry known for short-lived relationships. The secret to their strong bond appears to be:
- Keeping Their Personal Life Private – Unlike many celebrity couples who share their lives on social media or in interviews, Roberts and Moder keep their relationship away from the public eye, allowing them to focus on what truly matters.
- Strong Family Values – The couple has prioritized raising their children in a grounded environment, ensuring they have a normal upbringing despite their mother’s fame.
- Mutual Respect and Support – While Roberts is the more public figure, she has often expressed admiration for her husband’s work and dedication. She once stated that “the best decision of my life was meeting and marrying Danny.”
- Living Outside of Hollywood – The couple has spent much of their time away from Los Angeles, opting for a quieter life at their New Mexico ranch, where they can enjoy privacy and peace.
Julia Roberts on Love, Family, and Happiness
Roberts has frequently spoken about how her relationship with Moder has shaped her life. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, she revealed, “I have the life that I have always wanted, and my family is at the heart of it.” She also credited her husband for bringing balance and happiness to her life, calling him her greatest source of joy and inspiration.
Even after decades in Hollywood, she insists that her greatest achievement is not her Oscar-winning career, but the family she has built with Moder.
Conclusion: A Rare Love Story in Hollywood
Julia Roberts and Daniel Moder’s enduring love story is a testament to the power of privacy, mutual respect, and shared values. Their decision to prioritize family over fame has allowed them to build a stable, loving relationship that stands apart in Hollywood’s fast-paced, often tumultuous environment.
With over two decades of marriage, three wonderful children, and successful careers, Roberts and Moder continue to prove that true love can exist even in the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Their story is a refreshing reminder that some of the best love stories don’t need the spotlight—they thrive in the quiet moments, away from the cameras, in the heart of a happy home.
