In a recent revelation that has surprised fans of the beloved 1999 romantic comedy “Notting Hill,” screenwriter Richard Curtis divulged that he had pitched a sequel idea to the film’s lead actress, Julia Roberts. However, the Hollywood star swiftly rejected the proposal, deeming it a “very poor idea.”
‘Notting Hill’ Sequel Would Have Featured a Divorce
While promoting his upcoming animated feature “That Christmas,” Curtis shared with IndieWire that he had envisioned a follow-up to “Notting Hill” in the form of a short spin-off. The original film, which starred Roberts as a famous actress and Hugh Grant as a charming bookstore owner who falls for her, concluded with the couple getting married and expecting a child.
In a surprising twist, Curtis revealed that his sequel concept would have seen the lead characters getting divorced. “I tried doing one with Notting Hill, where they were going to get divorced,” he explained. However, Roberts quickly put an end to the idea, firmly believing it to be a misguided direction for the characters’ story.
Hugh Grant Supports Exploring the ‘Lie’ of Happy Endings
Interestingly, Hugh Grant, who portrayed the male lead in “Notting Hill,” had previously expressed interest in a sequel that would challenge the notion of happily ever after. In a 2020 interview, Grant suggested:
I would like to do a sequel to one of my own romantic comedies that shows what happened after those films ended. Really, to prove the terrible lie that they all were, that it was a happy ending.
Hugh Grant
Grant specifically mentioned “Notting Hill,” envisioning a sequel that would depict the couple’s tumultuous divorce, complete with expensive lawyers, a custody battle over their children, and the emotional scars left in the wake of their failed relationship.
The Enduring Appeal of ‘Notting Hill’
Despite the actors’ differing opinions on a potential sequel, “Notting Hill” remains a beloved classic in the romantic comedy genre. The film’s charm lies in its witty dialogue, memorable scenes, and the undeniable chemistry between Roberts and Grant.
The movie’s enduring popularity is a testament to the audience’s desire for heartwarming love stories that offer a touch of escapism. The idea of a glamorous movie star falling for an ordinary man resonates with viewers, as it plays into the fantasy of finding true love in unexpected places.
The Risks of Revisiting Classic Rom-Coms
While the prospect of catching up with beloved characters years later may be intriguing, revisiting classic romantic comedies can be a risky endeavor. Sequels often struggle to capture the magic of the original, and the notion of depicting a beloved couple’s divorce could potentially tarnish the fond memories associated with the film.
Moreover, in an era where audiences are increasingly seeking diverse and progressive stories, a sequel focusing on a high-profile divorce might be seen as a step backward. Many viewers find comfort in the escapist nature of romantic comedies, and a follow-up that delves into the harsh realities of a failed relationship could undermine the genre’s appeal.
The Future of ‘Notting Hill’
As of now, it appears that a “Notting Hill” sequel involving a divorce storyline is unlikely to materialize, given Julia Roberts’ strong opposition to the idea. Fans of the original film can take solace in the fact that the movie’s ending, while perhaps idealistic, will remain untouched.
However, the discussion surrounding the potential sequel raises intriguing questions about the nature of romantic comedies and the expectations placed on their characters. As the genre continues to evolve, filmmakers may find new ways to explore the complexities of relationships while still delivering the heartwarming moments that audiences crave.
For now, “Notting Hill” remains a timeless classic, a reminder of the enduring power of love and the magic of cinema. Whether or not a sequel ever comes to fruition, the film’s legacy as a beloved romantic comedy is sure to endure, offering viewers a delightful escape into a world where love conquers all, even if only for a brief, enchanting moment on the screen.
