Julia Roberts and husband Danny Moder will soon be honored by the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network for their work on an HBO film called The Normal Heart. Roberts starred in the film and Danny Moder served as director of photography. The adaptation came from a 1985 play of the same name, written by Larry Kramer that highlighted the early years of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Julia Roberts and Danny Moder will receive the GLSEN Humanitarian Award, not only for their work in The Normal Heart, but also for their off-screen efforts to raise HIV/AIDS awareness. The couple also helps global charities like UNICEF, Stand Up to Cancer, and Heal the Bay.
“We are proud to recognize Danny Moder & Julia Roberts, whose inspiring work on HBO’s The Normal Heart has brought renewed attention to an important movement – and an on-going crisis – in LGBT and American history,” GLSEN said in a statement to the media.
Danny Moder and Julia Roberts will be recognized for their efforts at the 2014 Respect Awards in Los Angeles on October 17. Just the trailer for The Normal Heart gives a hint at why.
The Normal Heart was nominated for sixteen Emmy Awards. The 2014 Emmy Awards will take place next Monday night, August 25th. In addition to Julia Roberts, the film stars Mark Ruffalo and Matt Bomer. Roberts, who played Dr. Emma Brookner, was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Movie. Mark Ruffalo was nominated for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or Movie for his performance as Ned Weeks. Matt Bomer, along with Jim Parsons (Big Bang Theory), Joe Mantello, and Alfred Molina all received nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Movie.
Thrilled to announce we'll honor Julia Roberts, Danny Moder, Robert Greenblatt & @derekhough at the #RespectAwards! http://t.co/bu1O9naJLY
— GLSEN (@GLSEN) August 19, 2014
The Normal Heart was released on DVD back in May. It sounds like one of those films that absolutely everyone should see. The cast of Emmy-nominated characters is beyond impressive.
Congratulations to Julia Roberts and hubby Danny Moder for their work both on and off-screen to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS.