When you think of Hollywood royalty, the name Julia Roberts is never far from the top of the list. With her dazzling smile, infectious laugh, and a filmography that has defined multiple generations, Roberts is a true icon of the silver screen.
But beyond the glitz and glamour, there’s a side to Julia that might surprise even her most devoted fans: she is an unabashed, card-carrying supporter of Manchester United Football Club.
Julia Roberts and Football: An Unexpected Love Story
So how did an Oscar-winning actress from Georgia become a fan of an English football club? The story is as charming as Julia herself.
During an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Roberts explained that her journey into football fandom began at home. “I have three children and when they were really little and started playing soccer and started watching it on TV. And I didn’t ever realise how exciting it was to watch it on television.
We just got so into it and somehow Manchester United just became our team, the Moder family team. And we became sort of possessed,” she recounted, laughing about the family’s shared obsession.
What started as a way to bond with her kids quickly turned into a genuine passion. The Roberts-Moder household didn’t just watch football—they lived it, with Manchester United becoming a central part of their family identity.
Why Manchester United?
Manchester United isn’t just any football club; it’s one of the most storied and successful teams in the world, with a legacy stretching back over a century. For an American family to choose United as their team is both fitting and a little cheeky—after all, the club’s global fanbase is enormous, and its matches are broadcast to millions across the globe.
What makes Julia Roberts’ choice especially interesting is the ripple effect it’s had—even among football’s elite. Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City (United’s fierce rivals), once joked that despite all his team’s recent success, Julia Roberts chose to visit Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, instead of City’s Etihad Stadium. “She came to see United, not us. Even if I win the Champions League, it won’t make up for that!” he said, showing just how much her support stands out.
How Many Times Has Julia Roberts Been to a Game?
Roberts isn’t just a casual fan—she’s made the effort to see her team play in person. Her first high-profile visit to Old Trafford came in November 2016, when she was spotted in the stands during a Premier League match against West Ham United. She didn’t just watch the game; she received a private tour of the stadium and met with players and staff.
Her dedication didn’t stop there. Roberts has attended United games both in England and abroad. She’s been present at pre-season tours in the United States, watching the team train and play matches in 2017 and 2018. In July 2023, she reunited with the squad at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where she watched United defeat Arsenal 2-0 and was presented with a special “Julia 1” shirt by manager Erik ten Hag.
And it’s not just about matchdays—Roberts has been seen at training sessions, family in tow, soaking up the atmosphere and sharing her enthusiasm with her children. She’s even attended charity matches such as Soccer Aid for UNICEF at Old Trafford, where she was seen wearing a football-themed jacket and cheering from the stands.
The Fun of Being a United Fan
For Julia Roberts, supporting Manchester United is more than just a hobby—it’s a source of joy, excitement, and family bonding. She’s described the thrill of watching United play as “so fun,” admitting that she gets completely caught up in the action. Her passion is infectious, and it’s clear the club holds a special place in her heart.
Her interactions with players are the stuff of fan dreams—posing for photos with stars like Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and Lisandro Martinez, who even gave her his match shirt as a token of appreciation. The players seem just as thrilled to meet her, proving that admiration can go both ways.
A Hollywood Ending
Julia Roberts’ love for Manchester United is a reminder that football’s magic goes beyond borders, professions, and lifestyles. Whether she’s lighting up the big screen or the stands at Old Trafford, Roberts brings her warmth and enthusiasm wherever she goes.
So, the next time you see Julia Roberts on the red carpet, remember: behind that famous smile is a true Red Devil, cheering on Manchester United with the same energy she brings to her films. And who knows? Maybe she’ll be at the next match, scarf in hand, singing with the fans—because for Julia Roberts, football is more than just a game. It’s family, it’s fun, and it’s something she clearly loves.
