Back in the early 2000s, the intersection of Hollywood romance and tabloid frenzy created some of the most volatile celebrity scandals in modern history. Long before social media controlled the narrative, print magazines and paparazzi closely tracked the private lives of A-list stars. Among the most infamous high-profile relationship dramas was the messy convergence of cinematic icon Julia Roberts and cinematographer Danny Moder, which ignited fierce public debate and earned the Oscar-winning actress a harsh label from her lover's then-wife.
The controversy surrounding Roberts and Moder remains a fascinating case study in how celebrity image clashes with personal choices. Tabloids feuded over the timeline, accusations flew regarding financial settlements, and a notorious t-shirt became a defining pop culture artifact of the era.
How the Romance Began on the Set of The Mexican
The roots of the scandal stretch back to the year 2000 during the production of the film The Mexican, which starred Roberts alongside Brad Pitt. At the time, Roberts was widely recognized as "America's Sweetheart" and was publicly involved with actor Benjamin Bratt. Meanwhile, Danny Moder was working behind the camera as a cinematographer and was married to makeup artist Vera Steimberg.
Sparks flew quickly between Roberts and Moder on set, though both were technically attached to other people. Publicly, representatives maintained that professional boundaries were respected until respective separations occurred. However, the speed at which both individuals transitioned out of their prior relationships raised eyebrows across the entertainment press.
The "Husband Stealer" Accusations and Vera Steimberg's Stance
As the relationship between Roberts and Moder grew serious, the divorce proceedings between Moder and Steimberg stalled. Steimberg was reportedly deeply reluctant to dissolve the marriage, leading to a bitter standoff.
Tabloids captured intense friction as Steimberg openly criticized the actress, famously branding her a "husband stealer" in interviews with outlets like The Sun. Steimberg claimed that Roberts had actively pressured her to sign divorce papers and alleged that financial incentives were used to expedite the process. Tabloid reports heavily circulated claims that a $200,000 payout was handed over to help convince Steimberg to let the marriage go.
While divorce lawyers and publicists managed the legal fallout, the emotional toll played out entirely in the public eye. Steimberg's friends and family largely sided with her, viewing Roberts as an intrusive force in a functioning household.
The Infamous "A Low Vera" T-Shirt Controversy
Nothing solidified the dramatic nature of the feud quite like Roberts's sartorial choice in early 2002. Walking through public spaces amidst heavy paparazzi scrutiny, Roberts wore a plain white t-shirt with a handwritten message scrawled across the front: "A Low Vera".
The pun—aimed directly at Vera Steimberg—was widely seen as a petty and provocative jab. Rather than letting the messy legal separation fade into the background, the shirt ensured the feud stayed on the cover of every weekly gossip magazine. When later asked about the garment during a televised interview with Oprah Winfrey, Roberts doubled down on her choice, stating that it was a private matter while firmly adding that she stood by the t-shirt.
Critics argued the stunt punctured Roberts's carefully cultivated wholesome image, exposing a sharper, more combative side of the mega-star. Supporters, conversely, viewed it as a defiant response to relentless tabloid shaming.
Surviving the Storm and Building a Life Together
Despite the heavy public backlash, the legal battles eventually cleared. Moder's divorce was finalized, clearing the path for him and Roberts. On July 4, 2002, the couple married in a surprise, low-key ceremony at Roberts's ranch in Taos, New Mexico. Roberts wore a simple pastel pink halter dress adorned with pearls and hand-painted flowers, keeping the aesthetic radically distant from a traditional Hollywood white wedding.
Decades later, the marriage has proven critics wrong. While skeptics predicted the romance would burn out quickly, Roberts and Moder have built a lasting union, raising three children together: twins Hazel and Phinnaeus, and younger son Henry. Moder has continued working as a respected cinematographer, occasionally collaborating on projects with his wife.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Julia Roberts and Danny Moder get married?
The couple tied the knot on July 4, 2002, during a surprise ceremony at Roberts's ranch in New Mexico, shortly after Moder's divorce from Vera Steimberg was finalized.
Who was Danny Moder married to before Julia Roberts?
Before marrying Roberts, Moder was married to makeup artist Vera Steimberg. Their divorce proceedings became a major tabloid fixture due to delays and public friction.
What was the meaning behind Julia Roberts's t-shirt?
During the height of the divorce drama, Roberts wore a t-shirt featuring the handwritten phrase "A Low Vera". It was a pointed play on words directed at Vera Steimberg, which drew widespread criticism and media attention.
Are Julia Roberts and Danny Moder still together?
Yes. Despite intense early scrutiny and recurring tabloid rumors over the years, the couple has remained married for over two decades.
