Julia Roberts, the beloved Hollywood actress, has enjoyed more than two decades of marriage with her husband, cinematographer Daniel Moder. Prioritizing her family over her career, Roberts took a significant break from acting when she was nearly 40. She married Moder in a private ceremony and now leads a serene life on a rural ranch with her family.
Roberts met Moder on the set of “The Mexican” in early 2000, although both were involved with other people at the time. Moder was married to makeup artist Vera Steimberg, while Roberts was dating actor Benjamin Bratt. Despite the complications, their budding relationship prompted Moder to file for divorce in June 2001.
During her relationship with Bratt, Roberts was often seen around her Manhattan neighborhood, but after their breakup and her new relationship with Moder, she became less visible. The couple split their time between Moder’s Los Angeles condo and Roberts’ $5 million property in Taos, which she bought in 1995 as a retreat from Hollywood.
Roberts embraced a simple life at the ranch, enjoying walks with her pets, building relationships with neighbors, and spending quiet evenings at local spots like the Alley Cantina. Friends described the couple as caring, dependable, and genuinely in love. Bratt, who married Talisa Soto in 2002, spoke candidly about his discomfort with Roberts’ fame, a sentiment not shared by Moder, who embraced all aspects of her life.
Their love story culminated in a surprise wedding on July 4, 2002. Guests thought they were attending an Independence Day party but were delighted to witness Roberts and Moder’s wedding under a silk sheath arch surrounded by rose petals. The intimate ceremony, attended by close friends, was heartfelt and free from typical Hollywood glitz. Roberts wore a pink halter dress, while Moder donned tan slacks and a scarlet ruffled shirt. They exchanged handwritten vows, sealing their commitment with a kiss.
Roberts took a 20-year hiatus from her career to focus on her family, stating she was born to be Moder’s wife. The couple welcomed twins Hazel and Phinnaeus in 2004, followed by a son, Henry, in 2007. Roberts cherished motherhood, making it her top priority and finding immense joy in her children.
Life on the ranch was peaceful and grounded. Roberts avoided social media and maintained a low profile, enjoying simple pleasures and family time. Despite her fame, she preferred a quiet, rural life, valuing her privacy and family’s well-being.
Roberts shared insights into her parenting philosophy, emphasizing the importance of being present for her children and cherishing everyday moments. She believed in open communication and quality family time, particularly enjoying meals together. Moder often posted pictures of their cozy home life, reflecting their deep family bonds.
As a mother, Roberts was practical and loving. She humorously shared her reliance on diaper rash cream and her approach to handling misbehavior with gentle guidance. When it came to giving her children cell phones, she listened to their reasons and valued honest communication.
Even as she balanced her family life, Roberts continued to cherish her acting career, though it never overshadowed her role as a mother and wife. In a 2020 interview, she expressed gratitude for her family, emphasizing that her life with Moder and their children was her greatest achievement.
Julia Roberts’ life on the ranch with her family is a testament to her commitment to love, simplicity, and the joy of being a mother. Her journey reflects the fulfillment of her dreams, both personal and professional, as she continues to inspire with her genuine approach to life.
