Julia Roberts’s self-description as “an utterly average, total geek” provides a compelling insight into her sense of identity and her relationship with both fame and normalcy. Despite being a globally recognized actress and a symbol of Hollywood glamour, Roberts opts to frame herself in terms that starkly contrast with her public persona. To call herself “utterly average” is to emphasize humility, suggesting that at her core, she sees herself as no different from anyone else. It’s a rejection of the pedestal celebrities are so often placed upon, offering an invitation for relatability. Average here does not necessarily imply mediocrity, but instead an ordinariness; a grounding quality, as if to say that her circumstances may be exceptional, but her essence remains accessible and real.
By pairing “utterly average” with “total geek,” Roberts adds a layer of playful self-awareness, and perhaps a hint of vulnerability, to her self-portrait. The term “geek” has evolved into a badge of honor, often signifying passion for interests that are quirky, intellectual, or outside the mainstream. For an actress known for her beauty and charisma, calling herself a “total geek” shows a willingness to embrace her less glamorous sides, her quirks and passions, revealing that she’s more than just her image on screen.
Together, these words speak to a broader theme: the tension between public projection and private reality. Roberts seems to suggest that underneath the celebrity, she is shaped by the same insecurities, interests, and sometimes awkward habits that define anyone else. Perhaps she is asserting that her success and recognition have not changed her essential self. In a culture where celebrities are often idolized and set apart, her statement is an act of demystification, breaking down barriers and highlighting the shared humanity that underlies even the brightest stars.
