Is Eric Roberts related to Julia Roberts? Yes, the two acclaimed actors are siblings who come from one of the most respected families in Hollywood. Their story stretches across generations of talent, from their parents’ beginnings in community theater to their own iconic careers and the rise of Eric’s daughter, Emma Roberts. In 2026, the Roberts family remains a lasting presence in the American entertainment industry — united by their passion for acting and their shared history.
The Early Roots of the Roberts Family
Eric and Julia Roberts were born into a creative household that valued the performing arts. Their parents, Betty Lou Bredemus and Walter Grady Roberts, were both stage actors and acting coaches. Together, they founded the Atlanta Actors and Writers Workshop in Georgia, where they trained young performers and produced stage productions during the 1960s and 1970s.
- Eric Roberts was born on April 18, 1956, in Biloxi, Mississippi.
- Julia Roberts was born on October 28, 1967, in Smyrna, Georgia.
- Their sister, Lisa Roberts Gillan, also pursued acting and producing.
Growing up in a household centered on creativity, the siblings were exposed to performance art early on. Their parents encouraged artistic expression, often involving their children in workshops and stage activities. Those early experiences shaped the foundation of the Roberts family’s long-standing presence in show business.
Eric Roberts: The Family’s First Hollywood Breakthrough
Before Julia became a household name, it was Eric Roberts who first stepped into the spotlight. He began his acting career in the 1970s, quickly gaining attention for his intense and emotionally charged performances. His breakout role came in King of the Gypsies (1978), earning him a Golden Globe nomination for Best New Star.
In 1985, his performance in Runaway Train brought him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, solidifying his reputation as a serious actor with remarkable range. He went on to star in Star 80, The Pope of Greenwich Village, and later appeared in major titles like The Dark Knight and The Expendables.
Eric’s career has been marked by both critical acclaim and prolific output. Over the years, he has accumulated more than 700 acting credits, making him one of the most active American actors of his generation. His ability to work across genres — from drama and crime thrillers to independent films and television — has earned him respect throughout the industry.
Though his career flourished, Eric faced personal and professional struggles during the 1980s and 1990s. Challenges related to substance use and public disputes briefly overshadowed his early success. These difficulties also contributed to a period of distance between him and his sister, Julia. However, as the years passed, both siblings reconciled and rebuilt their relationship with mutual respect and understanding.
Julia Roberts’ Rise to Hollywood Royalty
While Eric Roberts was already an established name, Julia Roberts soon rose to global superstardom in her own right. Her early career began with supporting roles, but she gained widespread recognition in Mystic Pizza (1988), which showcased her natural charm and talent.
A year later, her performance in Steel Magnolias (1989) earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. But it was Pretty Woman (1990) that transformed Julia Roberts into an international icon. The romantic comedy became a box office sensation, grossing hundreds of millions worldwide and earning her another Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe Award.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Julia delivered one hit after another, starring in beloved films such as My Best Friend’s Wedding, Notting Hill, Runaway Bride, and Erin Brockovich. Her role in Erin Brockovich (2000) earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, cementing her place as one of Hollywood’s most powerful and respected figures.
Julia became known for her authenticity, her radiant smile, and her ability to connect with audiences through emotionally rich characters. She also became one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood history, a testament to her box office appeal and enduring influence.
The Siblings’ Relationship Over the Years
Fans often revisit the question is Eric Roberts related to Julia Roberts not just out of curiosity, but because of the complex and heartfelt story behind their relationship. Their bond has gone through highs and lows over the decades, shaped by fame, distance, and reconciliation.
During the 1990s, the siblings reportedly experienced tension, partly due to personal struggles and career pressures. The public narrative often exaggerated their differences, portraying a long-standing rift. However, both Eric and Julia later clarified that family ties had never truly broken.
In more recent interviews, Eric has spoken warmly about Julia, describing her as a “beautiful soul” and expressing admiration for her success. Julia, in turn, has voiced affection for her brother and pride in his career longevity. Their ability to move past earlier conflicts reflects the strength of their family connection and mutual respect.
As of 2026, the Roberts family is on good terms, maintaining close contact while continuing to pursue their respective careers. Though they live private lives away from media attention, their bond remains strong, centered on family and shared history rather than public appearances.
The Next Generation: Emma Roberts Continues the Family Legacy
Eric Roberts’ daughter, Emma Roberts, represents the next chapter of the family’s Hollywood legacy. Born on February 10, 1991, Emma grew up surrounded by the entertainment industry. Her first major role came at age 13 in Nickelodeon’s Unfabulous, where she showcased both comedic and dramatic talent.
Over the years, Emma has built an impressive resume with roles in Nancy Drew, We’re the Millers, Scream 4, and the American Horror Story anthology series. She has also made her mark as a producer, working on projects that spotlight emerging talent.
Emma’s relationship with her father and her aunt Julia is often a point of public interest. While she has chosen her own artistic path, she frequently acknowledges the influence of her family’s passion for storytelling. The three generations — Betty and Walter’s legacy, Eric and Julia’s careers, and Emma’s modern stardom — together reflect a multigenerational contribution to American film and television.
Their Continued Success in 2026
In 2026, both Eric and Julia Roberts continue to be active in entertainment, though they’ve taken different paths. Eric’s career remains as dynamic as ever. He continues to appear in films, television series, and streaming projects, demonstrating an unstoppable drive to work and evolve as an artist.
Julia Roberts has transitioned into more selective roles in recent years, balancing her acting career with family life. Her recent film Ticket to Paradise (2022) was a commercial success, reuniting her with longtime co-star George Clooney. In 2026, she is set to star in a new high-profile streaming drama for Apple TV+, marking another exciting chapter in her career.
Despite their busy schedules, both siblings prioritize family over fame. Their relationship today is rooted in mutual respect, love, and pride in each other’s achievements.
A Closer Look at the Roberts Family Tree
| Name | Relation | Occupation | Notable Work |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walter Grady Roberts | Father | Actor, Playwright | Co-founder of Atlanta Actors and Writers Workshop |
| Betty Lou Bredemus | Mother | Acting Coach, Actress | Mentored aspiring actors in Georgia |
| Eric Roberts | Brother | Actor | Runaway Train, The Dark Knight, Star 80 |
| Julia Roberts | Sister | Actress | Pretty Woman, Erin Brockovich, Notting Hill |
| Lisa Roberts Gillan | Sister | Actress, Producer | Eat Pray Love, Homecoming |
| Emma Roberts | Niece | Actress, Producer | American Horror Story, Scream Queens, Maybe I Do |
This family tree illustrates how the Roberts family has contributed to Hollywood for decades. Their influence spans film, television, and theater — making them one of America’s most accomplished acting families.
Why People Still Ask “Is Eric Roberts Related to Julia Roberts?”
Many younger fans encounter Eric or Julia Roberts separately through streaming platforms, often unaware of their family connection. Eric’s extensive filmography attracts viewers from different genres, while Julia’s iconic roles continue to reach new audiences through digital platforms.
Additionally, Emma Roberts’ success introduces another generation to the family name, sparking curiosity about how these accomplished performers are related. The question remains popular online because each member of the Roberts family has achieved fame independently, yet their shared story ties them together in fascinating ways.
Their relationship also symbolizes something relatable — family dynamics, resilience, and personal growth. Despite fame, distance, and individual challenges, the Roberts siblings show that family bonds can withstand decades of change.
The Roberts Legacy: A Story of Talent and Perseverance
Few families in Hollywood have managed to sustain their influence across multiple generations the way the Roberts family has. From Walter and Betty’s theater beginnings to Eric and Julia’s cinematic triumphs and Emma’s modern-day success, their legacy represents dedication, creativity, and love for the craft of storytelling.
In an industry known for fleeting fame, the Roberts family has maintained relevance and respect for over half a century. Their journeys remind audiences that behind the glamour lies hard work, resilience, and a shared passion for performance.
So, is Eric Roberts related to Julia Roberts? Yes — they are brother and sister, both celebrated for their achievements and admired for their enduring family bond. Their intertwined stories tell more than a tale of fame; they reflect the strength of family ties that continue to thrive through generations.
The Roberts family proves that talent runs deep — but it’s their loyalty, respect, and shared love of storytelling that truly keep their Hollywood legacy alive.