Hollywood icon Julia Roberts joins crowds at Soccer Aid in surprise cameo

The Pretty Woman icon was spotted in the crowd.
Soccer Aid 2025 has brought footballing legends and celebrities gather to play a game of footie to raise vital funds for UNICEF UK, supporting initiatives that provide life-saving assistance to children worldwide.
The event, which was founded by former Take That star Robbie Williams in 2006, usually brings in celebrities from all over the globe but fans were surprised when they spotted Pretty Woman and Notting Hill actress Julia Roberts in the crowds.
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Ahead of the match kicking off hosts Dermot O'Leary and Alex Scott were on the football pitch discussing the atmosphere and the amazing fans in the crowd, before Dermott announced that the Hollywood star was actually in the stadium.
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Dermot said: 'The atmosphere is coming along very nicely and, I'll tell you what, anyone who is anyone is here tonight, including a certain Julia Roberts'.
Alex appeared to be surprised at the news as she repeated the actress' name in astonishment before Dermot added: 'Apparently, she is a Manchester United fan'.
Julia was then captured by the camera as she was seen walking into the stadium, looking the part in a red blazer with large footballs printed all over it. The actress flashed her signature smile as she prepared to join the crowds in spectating the important game.
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As well as actors, singers and comedians, football stars will also take to the pitch for another game as England goes head to head with the World XI. Soccer Aid has been running for over 20 years and has raised £100million overall.
Other notable celebrities who will still participate in the match include football legends Wayne Rooney, Gary Neville, and Paul Scholes, alongside renowned Lioness players Toni Duggan, Steph Houghton, and Jill Scott. Additionally, Steve Bartlett, Paddy McGuiness, Sam Quek, Dermot Kennedy, Tom Grennan, and Martin Compston will join the fray.
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International football sensation and Euro 2020 winner Leonardo Bonucci, as well as Nadia Nadim and dancer Gorka Marquez, will also take to the pitch.
Sam Thompson was also supposed to be playing in the match but sadly had to withdraw due to injury. Despite not being able to participate in the match due to a calf injury sustained during his charity five-day challenge where he succeeded in raising over £1 million for Unicef, Sam has transitioned into a coaching role. He will continue to play a pivotal part in the Soccer Aid event.
Soccer Aid initially took place every two years but is now an annual event.
Females were first allowed to play in the game in 2019 and it is the only mixed-sex match officially sanctioned by The Football Association. 2020 saw the event held behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic.
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