5 Dark Secrets Of Pretty Woman’s Original Script Revealed Ahead Of The 35th Anniversary

Few films capture the essence of a modern fairy tale quite like 1990’s *Pretty Woman*, the iconic romantic comedy that cemented Julia Roberts as a global superstar. As of December 2025, the film is rapidly approaching its massive 35th anniversary in March 2025, prompting a fresh look at its legacy, the iconic fashion, and the shocking secrets hidden in its early development. While the movie we know ends with Edward Lewis (Richard Gere) conquering his fear to climb the fire escape to Vivian Ward, the original script, titled *3000*, was a dramatically darker, more tragic story that nearly saw Vivian die.

This enduring classic, directed by the late Garry Marshall, became one of the highest-grossing romantic comedies of all time, pulling in over $463.4 million worldwide on a modest budget. Today, Roberts and the rest of the cast, including Hector Elizondo and Laura San Giacomo, continue to reflect on the film’s impact, revealing new details about the on-set chemistry, the iconic red dress, and why a story about a wealthy businessman and a Hollywood escort might never be made in the current cinematic landscape. We dive into the most compelling, up-to-date facts about the movie that made "big mistake. Big. Huge!" a permanent part of pop culture.

Julia Roberts' Biography and The Role That Changed Everything

Julia Roberts was a rising star before *Pretty Woman*, but the role of Vivian Ward catapulted her to A-list status, earning her a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination. Her infectious laugh and undeniable chemistry with Richard Gere remain central to the film's appeal.

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• Full Name: Julia Fiona Roberts
• Date of Birth: October 28, 1967
• Place of Birth: Smyrna, Georgia, USA
• Spouse: Daniel Moder (m. 2002)
• Children: Hazel Patricia, Phinnaeus Walter, Henry Daniel
• Notable Films Before *Pretty Woman*: *Mystic Pizza* (1988), *Steel Magnolias* (1989) (Oscar Nomination)
• Major Awards for *Pretty Woman*: Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy (1991), Academy Award Nomination for Best Actress.
• Later Career Highlights: *Erin Brockovich* (2000) (Academy Award for Best Actress), *Notting Hill* (1999), *Ocean's Eleven* (2001), *Eat Pray Love* (2010), *Leave the World Behind* (2023).

The Darkest Secrets of the Original Script: A Tragic Ending

The happy ending of *Pretty Woman*—Edward overcoming his fear of heights to rescue Vivian on the fire escape—was a last-minute decision that saved the film from a much bleaker fate. The initial screenplay, written by J.F. Lawton, was an entirely different beast, originally titled *3000*.

Vivian’s Dark Reality: Drug Addiction and Death

In the original script, Vivian Ward was not just a kind-hearted escort; she was a drug addict. The story was intended to be a gritty, cautionary tale about the harsh realities of life on the street, not a romantic comedy. Several actresses, including Molly Ringwald and Meg Ryan, reportedly turned down the role because of the dark material.

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The Bleak, Depressing Final Scene

Julia Roberts herself confirmed the shocking details of the original conclusion in a recent interview. Instead of the iconic "rescue," the film was meant to end with Edward Lewis failing to connect with Vivian.

• The Throw-Out: One version of the original ending saw Edward Lewis "throw her out of the car, throw the money on top of her, and just drove" away, leaving her in an alley.
• The Overdose: Another, even darker version of the script had Vivian die of a drug overdose, turning the film into a tragedy.
• The Disneyland Bus: A slightly less tragic, though still depressing, version ended with Vivian and her best friend, Kit De Luca, on a bus headed to Disneyland, reflecting on her failure to escape her life.

It was director Garry Marshall who insisted on the fairy tale ending, arguing that the audience needed a happy resolution. His decision is credited with turning a dark drama into the blockbuster romantic comedy we celebrate today.

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Julia Roberts' Reflection: Where is Vivian Ward Today?

As the film's 35th anniversary approaches, Julia Roberts has offered fresh perspectives on the film's legacy, the possibility of a sequel, and whether the story could ever be made today.

Roberts Doesn't Think It Would Be Made Today

In a recent conversation, Roberts expressed doubt that a major studio would greenlight a film like *Pretty Woman* today. She noted that the romantic tale of a wealthy businessman and a sex worker is a concept that might not resonate or be deemed appropriate for a mainstream audience in the current cultural climate.

Vivian’s Life After Edward

When asked where she believes her character, Vivian Ward, would be in the present day, Roberts shared a hopeful and grounded vision. She speculated that Vivian and Edward Lewis would still be together, happily married, and that Edward would have passed away peacefully in his sleep. She also believes Vivian would now be running Edward’s entire business, showcasing her intelligence and growth beyond their initial arrangement.

The Sequel Requirement

Fans have long hoped for a sequel, but Richard Gere has remained hesitant. However, he did reveal his one requirement for a potential *Pretty Woman 2* during a recent interview: he would only do it if Garry Marshall—the film's original director who passed away in 2016—could be involved. Given Marshall's passing, a traditional sequel is highly unlikely, solidifying the original film's status as a standalone classic.

The Unforgettable Fashion and Enduring Global Legacy

Beyond the romance, *Pretty Woman* is an enduring cultural phenomenon defined by its iconic fashion moments and its massive financial success, which continues to be celebrated on stage around the world.

The Iconic Fashion Moments

Costume designer Marilyn Vance created some of the most memorable cinematic outfits of the 1990s. These fashion entities remain instantly recognizable and are frequently referenced in modern media:

• The Red Opera Dress: The stunning off-the-shoulder red gown Vivian wears to the opera is arguably the film's most famous outfit. It represents the pinnacle of her transformation and almost wasn't red; the studio originally wanted it to be black.
• The "Big Mistake" Outfit: The white collared dress and black blazer Vivian wears when she returns to the Rodeo Drive boutique—the one where she was previously refused service—is the ultimate revenge fashion moment. Her delivery of the line, "Big mistake. Big. Huge!" is one of the most quoted lines in film history.
• The Polka Dot Dress: The brown and white polka dot dress worn to the polo match is a classic piece of resort wear that solidified her transition into Edward’s world.

*Pretty Woman: The Musical* Global Tour

The film's legacy is kept alive by *Pretty Woman: The Musical*, which has successfully toured globally, bringing the story to new generations. The musical features music and lyrics by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance and continues to draw massive crowds.

As of late 2025 and early 2026, the musical is still actively performing, with productions running in London and Germany, as well as a National Tour in the United States. A Non-Equity tour is scheduled to run through May 2025, ensuring the story's continued presence on stages worldwide, proving that the magic of Vivian and Edward’s unconventional romance still resonates with audiences 35 years later.