Betty Lou Roberts may not be a household name like her daughter, Julia Roberts, but her life story is one of quiet strength, resilience, and unconditional love. As the devoted mother of one of Hollywood’s most beloved actresses, Betty Lou played a central role in shaping Julia’s values, career, and approach to motherhood. But beyond her identity as a celebrity’s mom, Betty Lou Roberts was a woman with her own rich story—filled with personal challenges, deep devotion to family, and a lasting legacy in the world of acting and parenting. In this heartfelt look at her life, we uncover who she really was, the challenges she faced, and how she continues to influence those who knew and loved her.
Quick Bio Information
Full Name: Betty Lou Bredemus
Known As: Betty Lou Roberts
Date Of Birth: August 1934
Place Of Birth: Louisiana, USA
Date Of Death: February 19, 2015
Age At Death: 80
Cause Of Death: Lung cancer
Profession: Acting coach, teacher
Marital Status: Divorced
First Husband: Walter Grady Roberts
Second Husband: Michael Motes (divorced)
Children: Julia Roberts, Eric Roberts, Lisa Roberts Gillan, Nancy Motes
Grandchildren: Hazel, Phinnaeus, Henry
Residence: Smyrna, Georgia
Legacy: Known for strength, independence, and raising accomplished children
Notable Trait: Practical and honest approach to motherhood
Famous Quote (via Julia): “It’s called daycare, honey.”
Connection To Hollywood: Mother of Oscar-winning actress Julia Roberts
Community Role: Co-founder of Atlanta Actors and Writers Workshop
Remembered For: Quiet strength, family devotion, and positive influence
Early Life Of Betty Lou Roberts
Betty Lou Bredemus was born in 1934 in Louisiana, and she spent her early years rooted in the American South. Little is publicly documented about her childhood, but it’s clear that she carried traditional Southern values of grit, hospitality, and strength throughout her life. Those values would become the foundation of her parenting style and personal character, and they served her well as she faced hardships in adulthood. She had a keen interest in drama and teaching from a young age, and her passion for storytelling would eventually lead her to a career in acting education.
Her Marriage To Walter Roberts And Family Beginnings
Betty Lou married Walter Grady Roberts in the 1950s. Together, they had four children: Eric Roberts, Lisa Roberts Gillan, Julia Roberts, and Nancy Motes. The couple shared a love of acting and even co-founded the Atlanta Actors and Writers Workshop, a community theater that introduced young actors to the stage—including, most notably, a young Martin Luther King Jr.’s children, whom they once taught free of charge. The Roberts’ home was a creative, expressive place, and Betty Lou and Walter encouraged their children’s involvement in the arts from an early age.
Life After Divorce — Raising Three Children Almost Alone
In 1971, Betty Lou and Walter divorced, leaving Betty Lou to raise their daughters primarily on her own. Her son, Eric, had already left home, so the task of supporting the household fell largely on her shoulders. Betty Lou worked full-time while managing the needs of her daughters, Lisa, Julia, and later Nancy. Despite the strain, she never showed the burden she was carrying. According to Julia Roberts, her mother made the impossible seem manageable. She demonstrated an unwavering work ethic that made a deep impression on her children.
Her Second Marriage To Michael Motes
After her divorce from Walter, Betty Lou remarried. Her second husband was Michael Motes, a relationship that would prove to be difficult and eventually end in divorce in 1983. This chapter in her life was marked by emotional challenges, particularly concerning the well-being of her children. Julia Roberts has spoken candidly about her disapproval of Motes, describing him as “abusive and a drunk.” The marriage created tensions within the family, especially for Nancy Motes, Betty’s youngest daughter. Still, Betty Lou remained a protective and determined mother throughout the turbulence.
Betty Lou Roberts As An Acting Coach
Betty Lou wasn’t just a mother—she was also an acting teacher and coach with a strong presence in Georgia’s performing arts scene. She returned to her creative roots after her second divorce, guiding young talent and sharing her expertise with aspiring performers. Though she never sought the spotlight, her impact was felt in every student she taught. Her commitment to acting extended beyond performance; she believed in the discipline, empathy, and expression that came with it. It’s no surprise that Julia Roberts, Lisa Gillan, and Eric Roberts all built careers in entertainment—her influence was both direct and deeply personal.
How Betty Shaped Julia Roberts’ Approach To Life And Motherhood
Julia Roberts often credits her mother as the blueprint for her own life as a working mother. When Julia became a mom herself in the early 2000s, she leaned on her mother for advice. With three children under the age of three, Julia once asked, “Mom, how did you do this?” Betty Lou’s response was simple and practical: “It’s called daycare, honey.” That one line reflected Betty’s pragmatic approach to parenting—no sugarcoating, no lofty ideals, just support and honesty. Julia has said that she was incredibly grateful for that kind of grounded wisdom.
The Close Mother-Daughter Bond
Julia and her mother shared a deep emotional connection that extended far beyond their physical time together. Even after her passing, Betty continues to be a presence in Julia’s life. Julia has shared that her children—Hazel, Phinnaeus, and Henry—often talk about their grandmother, keeping her memory alive. She’s also mentioned small signs that remind her of Betty, such as unexpectedly seeing the name “Betty” in different places—once even in Africa while filming a humanitarian segment. These quiet, intimate moments illustrate just how strong their bond was, and how lasting Betty’s presence remains in Julia’s world.
Her Passing In 2015 And How The Family Coped
Betty Lou Roberts passed away in early 2015 at the age of 80 after a battle with lung cancer. Her death marked a profound loss for Julia and the entire Roberts family. While not heavily publicized, Julia spoke about her mother’s passing with tenderness and sorrow, choosing to remember her with gratitude rather than grief. The family gathered privately to honor her life and legacy. At that time, Julia took a brief step back from public appearances, focusing on her family and remembering the woman who helped her become who she is.
Betty Lou Roberts Legacy Through Her Children
All four of Betty Lou’s children went on to leave their own marks on the world, each in unique ways. Eric Roberts achieved recognition as a respected actor. Lisa Roberts Gillan has worked steadily as a producer and actress, often collaborating with Julia. Julia Roberts, of course, became one of the most successful and beloved actresses of her generation. Even Nancy Motes, who tragically passed away in 2014, sought a career in the entertainment world. Behind each of them was Betty Lou Roberts—a mother who gave everything to ensure her children could pursue their dreams.
How Julia Continues To Honor Her Mother Today
Julia Roberts remains deeply connected to her mother’s memory, not just in personal reflection but in the way she lives her life. She’s a devoted mother, a thoughtful philanthropist, and a grounded celebrity—traits that mirror Betty Lou’s values. Julia’s involvement in causes like Red Nose Day and her humanitarian trip to Kenya reflect her mother’s spirit of giving and compassion. She doesn’t just talk about Betty; she embodies the lessons she learned from her. Whether through parenting, activism, or humility, Julia’s ongoing tribute to Betty is quietly powerful.
Final Thoughts — Why Betty Lou Roberts Story Still Inspires
Betty Lou Roberts lived a life that, though not always in the spotlight, was full of strength, wisdom, and lasting influence. She raised her children through adversity, taught with passion, and gave everything she had to her family. Her story matters not only because she raised Julia Roberts, but because she represents the unsung heroes behind the scenes—mothers who quietly shape the world by shaping the people in it. In remembering Betty Lou Roberts, we remember the power of devotion, the beauty of resilience, and the legacy of love that endures beyond life itself.
FAQs About Betty Lou Roberts
Who Was Betty Lou Roberts?
Betty Lou Roberts was the mother of actress Julia Roberts. She was an acting coach, teacher, and a devoted mother who raised her children with strength and resilience, especially after divorcing Julia’s father.
What Did Betty Lou Roberts Do For A Living?
She worked as an acting coach and co-founded a community theater in Georgia with her first husband. She also supported her family by working full-time jobs while raising her children.
How Did Betty Lou Influence Julia Roberts?
Betty taught Julia practical values, emotional strength, and a strong work ethic. Julia often credits her mother as her biggest role model, especially in parenting.
When Did Betty Lou Roberts Pass Away?
She died in February 2015 at the age of 80 after battling lung cancer.
Was Betty Lou Roberts Married Twice?
Yes. Her first marriage was to Walter Grady Roberts, and her second was to Michael Motes, which ended in divorce.
How Many Children Did Betty Lou Roberts Have?
She had four children: Eric Roberts, Lisa Roberts Gillan, Julia Roberts, and Nancy Motes.
What Is Betty Lou Roberts’ Legacy?
Her legacy lives on through her children’s accomplishments and the values she instilled in them—especially in Julia Roberts, who honors her mother in both word and action.
Why Is Betty Lou Roberts Still Talked About Today?
Because of her influence on one of Hollywood’s most iconic stars and her inspiring story of strength, independence, and maternal devotion, her life continues to resonate with audiences.
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