Walter Grady Roberts was an American actor, playwright, and acting teacher who gained fame as the father of Julia Roberts, one of the most successful and popular actresses in Hollywood. However, his life was not as glamorous as his daughter’s, as he faced many challenges and hardships before his untimely death in 1977. This article will explore his biography, career, marriage, divorce, and legacy.
Early Life and Career
Walter Grady Roberts was born on December 25, 1933, in Smyrna, Georgia. He had a passion for acting and writing from a young age and pursued his dream by performing in various plays for the armed forces. He met his future wife, Betty Lou Bredemus, an actress and acting coach, during a performance of the play “George Washington Slept Here”. They fell in love and got married in 1955.
Together, they founded the Atlanta Actors and Writers Workshop, a successful institution that trained many aspiring actors and writers. Walter also taught acting to Yolanda King, the daughter of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. He also wrote and acted in a children’s show called “Bum Bum and His Buddies” for a local network.
Marriage and Divorce
Walter and Betty had three children: Eric Roberts, born in 1956; Lisa Roberts Gillan, born in 1965; and Julia Roberts, born in 1967. All of them followed their parents’ footsteps and became actors. Walter exposed his children to theatre at an early age and encouraged their talents.
However, Walter’s marriage with Betty was not smooth sailing. They faced financial problems as their workshop declined and their acting careers stalled. They also grew apart emotionally and decided to end their relationship. Betty filed for divorce in 1971, which was finalized in 1972. She took the kids with her and moved to Smyrna, Georgia. Julia was only five years old when her parents divorced.
Death and Legacy
Walter remained in contact with his children after the divorce, but he also struggled with health issues. He was diagnosed with throat cancer in 1976 and underwent surgery to remove his voice box. He lost his ability to speak and had to use an artificial device to communicate. He died in 1977 at the age of 44.
Walter’s death was a huge blow to his children, especially Julia, who was very close to him. She later said that losing her father was the hardest thing she ever faced in her life. She also said that he was her hero and inspiration.
Walter’s legacy lives on through his children, who have achieved remarkable success in the film industry. Eric Roberts is an acclaimed actor who has appeared in more than 600 films and TV shows. Lisa Roberts Gillan is an actress and producer who has worked with Julia in several projects. Julia Roberts is one of the most famous and highest-paid actresses in the world, who has won an Academy Award, three Golden Globes, and many other accolades.
Walter Grady Roberts may not have been as famous as his daughter, but he was a talented and passionate man who left a lasting impression on his family and students. He was a loving father, a devoted husband, a creative writer, and a skilled actor who lived a tragic but meaningful life.