The making of Steel Magnolias (1989) is one of Hollywood’s most cherished stories, not only because of its unforgettable performances but also due to the bonds formed among its powerhouse cast. Starring Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Dolly Parton, and others, the film is known for its themes of friendship, family, and strength. But recently, Sally Field opened up about some harsh behind-the-scenes moments, particularly with the film’s director, Herbert Ross.
Field, who played the role of M’Lynn Eatenton, has long been an advocate for Julia Roberts, especially when it comes to the treatment Roberts received on set. Field didn’t hold back in a candid interview, where she called Ross a “real son of a bitch” for the way he treated Roberts during the filming. This revelation has shocked many, shedding light on the challenges Roberts faced early in her career and the support she received from her co-stars.
In this article, we will explore Field’s recollections about Ross’s treatment of Roberts, the dynamics on set, and how the cast rallied to support the newcomer during the making of Steel Magnolias.
Sally Field’s Powerful Statement on Herbert Ross
What Sally Field Said About Herbert Ross
Sally Field has never been one to mince words, and when it comes to defending Julia Roberts, she was incredibly direct. In an interview, Field described Herbert Ross, the director of Steel Magnolias, as a “real son of a bitch” when discussing how he treated the then-unknown Roberts during filming.
“I wasn’t the only one who noticed it. It was very obvious to all of us. Julia was incredibly talented, but this director, for some reason, chose to make her experience miserable,” Field recalled. “I just couldn’t sit back and watch it happen. I had to step in.”
Ross, a respected director known for films like The Turning Point (1977) and Play It Again, Sam (1972), reportedly showed little patience for Roberts, who was only 22 years old at the time. According to Field, his harsh criticism and treatment of Roberts took a toll on her during the filming of the movie.
Why Was Julia Roberts Targeted?
A Rising Star Facing Unnecessary Pressure
Julia Roberts was a relative newcomer when she landed the role of Shelby Eatenton Latcherie in Steel Magnolias. While the role would eventually become one of her most iconic performances, Roberts was still adjusting to the demands of being on a major film set.
At that time, Roberts had starred in a few films, but she was nowhere near the A-list status she would later achieve. Her breakthrough role in Steel Magnolias was a chance for her to show off her acting skills on a larger scale. However, she soon found herself under the harsh scrutiny of Herbert Ross, a veteran director with a reputation for being demanding.
Field and other cast members, including Dolly Parton and Olympia Dukakis, noticed how Roberts struggled under Ross’s critical eye. While many actors expect to face tough moments during filming, Field believes the director went above and beyond with his behavior toward Roberts, especially given her inexperience.
The Impact on Julia Roberts
A Tough Road for the Newcomer
Despite the challenges she faced with Ross, Julia Roberts persevered and delivered a performance that would become her breakthrough role. She perfectly captured Shelby’s warmth, strength, and vulnerability, earning critical acclaim for her portrayal.
However, the behind-the-scenes tension did not go unnoticed. Roberts, who was still learning the ropes of the Hollywood machine, found herself in a difficult spot. Field remembers feeling protective of Roberts, especially as the young actress had to endure such negativity.
“Julia was just starting out. She was incredibly talented and had such a warm heart, but the director was making her life difficult,” Field shared. “We all saw what was happening, and as the women on set, we came to her defense.”
Despite the difficulties, Roberts eventually found the strength to rise above the harsh treatment, and her role in Steel Magnolias would lead her to superstardom, starring in Pretty Woman (1990) just a year later.
Sally Field Steps In to Defend Julia Roberts
Field’s Protective Nature on Set
Sally Field’s protective nature toward Julia Roberts wasn’t limited to just words. Field took it upon herself to shield Roberts from some of the harsh treatment she was receiving from Herbert Ross. According to Field, she and other members of the cast would often offer their support to Roberts during breaks between takes.
“None of us could just sit back and let it happen. We had to step in and remind Julia of her worth,” Field explained. “We would take her aside and tell her, ‘You are amazing, and you’re doing a great job.’”
For Field, it was about ensuring that Roberts didn’t lose confidence during a pivotal time in her career. Field’s role as M’Lynn was equally emotional and intense, but she made sure to take on a maternal role off-screen, as well.
How the Cast Became a Support System for Julia Roberts
The Sisterhood That Saved Julia Roberts
While Sally Field was perhaps the most vocal in defending Roberts, she wasn’t alone. The women of Steel Magnolias, including Dolly Parton, Olympia Dukakis, and Shirley MacLaine, all banded together to support Roberts during filming. They understood the importance of the role and knew that Roberts had what it took to succeed despite the pressure.
Dolly Parton, in particular, offered Roberts words of encouragement during the grueling shooting schedule. Parton, known for her warm and nurturing nature, shared her own experiences with dealing with difficult situations on set.
“We all rallied around her,” Parton recalled. “Julia is one of the most talented actresses I’ve ever worked with. It was important for us to make sure she knew she was supported, no matter what was going on around her.”
Why Sally Field Felt the Need to Protect Julia Roberts
The Protective Bond Between M’Lynn and Shelby
In the film, Sally Field’s character, M’Lynn, is a mother fiercely protective of her daughter, Shelby. The bond between mother and daughter is at the heart of the story, and Field’s off-screen actions mirrored the nurturing relationship of the two characters.
For Field, it wasn’t just about standing up for a fellow actress—it was about protecting a young woman who was navigating a challenging environment for the first time. The love and mentorship that Field offered Roberts went beyond the script, forming a lifelong bond between the two actresses.
“I didn’t want to see her hurt, and I couldn’t just stand by,” Field explained. “I knew how difficult the industry could be, and I wanted her to know that she was safe with us.”
The Lasting Legacy of Steel Magnolias
A Film That Continues to Inspire
Despite the struggles Julia Roberts faced behind the scenes, Steel Magnolias went on to become a timeless classic. The film continues to resonate with audiences today, thanks to its powerful themes of family, friendship, and resilience.
Julia Roberts’ performance as Shelby remains one of her most beloved roles, earning her a spot as one of Hollywood’s top actresses. While her road to stardom was not without its bumps, Roberts’s strength and the support of her co-stars helped her overcome the challenges she faced.
Sally Field’s recollections of Steel Magnolias not only shed light on the difficulties behind the scenes but also reinforce the importance of support and sisterhood, both on and off the screen. The legacy of the film lives on, and the bond between the cast members remains a testament to the power of solidarity in the face of adversity.
Conclusion: A Bond That Transcended the Set
The behind-the-scenes drama surrounding Steel Magnolias sheds light on the pressures faced by young actors and the responsibility that directors and cast members have to support one another. Sally Field’s candid remarks about Herbert Ross’s treatment of Julia Roberts reveal the less glamorous side of filmmaking. However, what stands out most is the way the cast banded together to lift Roberts up during a difficult time in her career.
Today, Steel Magnolias remains a beloved classic, and its legacy is not just built on its unforgettable performances, but also on the incredible bond shared between the actresses, particularly Sally Field’s role in helping guide and protect a young Julia Roberts.
FAQs
1. Why did Sally Field call Herbert Ross a “real son of a bitch”?
Sally Field made this remark because she felt that the director, Herbert Ross, treated Julia Roberts harshly on the set of Steel Magnolias, particularly due to Roberts’ inexperience at the time.
2. How did Julia Roberts cope with the harsh treatment from the director?
Despite the tough environment, Julia Roberts was supported by her co-stars, especially Sally Field, who provided emotional support and mentorship throughout the filming process.
3. How did Sally Field help Julia Roberts during filming?
Sally Field took a protective stance toward Roberts, offering her encouragement and guidance, both on and off the set, and making sure she felt supported during a tough time in her career.
4. Did Sally Field and Julia Roberts form a lasting bond?
Yes, Sally Field and Julia Roberts formed a deep friendship and mentorship bond that has lasted beyond the filming of Steel Magnolias. Field played a key role in helping Roberts navigate the challenges of Hollywood early in her career.
5. How did Steel Magnolias impact Julia Roberts’ career?
Steel Magnolias marked Julia Roberts’ breakout role and helped catapult her to stardom, leading to iconic roles in films like Pretty Woman and establishing her as one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actresses.
