Is Eric Roberts related to Julia Roberts? Yes — the answer is a definite yes. The two celebrated stars share one of Hollywood’s most fascinating family ties. Julia Roberts, the Oscar-winning actress known for Pretty Woman and Erin Brockovich, is the younger sister of actor Eric Roberts, whose long and diverse career spans more than four decades. Though both have carved their own paths in the entertainment industry, their family connection has long captured public interest — and their story continues to evolve even in 2026.
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The Roberts Family: A Hollywood Legacy
Eric Roberts and Julia Roberts were born into a family deeply connected to acting. Their parents, Betty Lou Bredemus and Walter Grady Roberts, were both actors and drama coaches. They co-founded the Atlanta Actors and Writers Workshop, a community space for aspiring performers in Georgia during the 1960s and early 1970s.
- Eric Roberts was born on April 18, 1956, in Biloxi, Mississippi.
- Julia Roberts was born on October 28, 1967, in Smyrna, Georgia.
- The siblings also have another sister, Lisa Roberts Gillan, who works as an actress and producer.
Their parents’ shared passion for theater shaped all three siblings from an early age. However, Eric was the first to enter the entertainment industry, paving the way for the family’s Hollywood reputation.
Eric Roberts: The First Star of the Family
Eric Roberts made his film debut in the 1970s and quickly earned acclaim for his powerful performances. He gained recognition for King of the Gypsies (1978), which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. In 1985, his portrayal in Runaway Train earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
By the time Julia Roberts was a teenager, her older brother had already become a respected name in Hollywood. Despite his success, Eric’s journey was not without challenges. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he faced personal struggles, including substance abuse issues and legal troubles, which affected his relationship with his family — particularly with Julia.
Still, his talent never faded. Over the years, Eric became one of Hollywood’s most prolific actors, appearing in over 700 film and television credits. His roles range from major studio projects to independent films, earning him a reputation as one of the hardest-working actors in the business.
Julia Roberts’ Rise to Global Fame
Julia Roberts’ entry into acting came a few years after Eric had already made his mark. She first gained attention with her role in Mystic Pizza (1988), followed by her breakout performance in Steel Magnolias (1989), which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Then came Pretty Woman (1990), the romantic comedy that turned Julia Roberts into an international superstar. The film grossed over $460 million worldwide and earned her a Golden Globe Award and another Oscar nomination. Over the next three decades, she continued to dominate Hollywood with critically acclaimed performances in films like My Best Friend’s Wedding, Notting Hill, Erin Brockovich, and Ocean’s Eleven.
In 2001, Julia won her first Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Erin Brockovich. That same year, she became one of the highest-paid actresses in the world — a position she maintained for much of the 2000s and 2010s.
Family Tensions and Public Reconciliation
The question “is Eric Roberts related to Julia Roberts?” often resurfaces not only because of their shared talent but also because of their once-strained relationship.
During the 1990s, Eric and Julia reportedly grew distant due to personal conflicts and Eric’s struggles with addiction. For many years, tabloids speculated about a family feud. However, both siblings have since clarified that time and healing helped mend their bond.
In 2018, Eric Roberts spoke publicly about their reconciliation, noting that the family had reconnected and put old issues behind them. He praised Julia’s success and expressed deep affection for her and his daughter, Emma Roberts, who has also become a prominent actress.
As of 2026, the Roberts family remains united. Eric continues to speak warmly of Julia in interviews, emphasizing mutual respect and love. While the siblings do not frequently appear together in public, they maintain a private and supportive relationship, away from the spotlight.
Emma Roberts: The Next Generation of Hollywood Talent
The Roberts family’s acting legacy extends to the next generation through Emma Roberts, Eric’s daughter with actress Kelly Cunningham. Born on February 10, 1991, Emma grew up surrounded by film sets and family fame.
She rose to prominence in the early 2000s with Nickelodeon’s Unfabulous, later establishing herself as a versatile actress in projects such as American Horror Story, Scream Queens, and We’re the Millers.
Emma Roberts has often spoken lovingly about her father and her aunt, calling Julia an “incredible inspiration.” While Julia and Emma have not appeared in a film together, fans continue to hope for a future collaboration that would bring three generations of acting excellence into one cinematic legacy.
How Close Are They Today?
As of 2026, both Eric and Julia maintain active careers. Eric continues to take on a wide range of film and television roles, including several independent projects. Julia, while appearing less frequently on screen than during her peak years, remains one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood.
In recent interviews, Eric has described his sister as “beautiful, brilliant, and loving,” while Julia has expressed pride in her brother’s resilience and longevity in the industry. Family members, including Lisa Roberts Gillan, have also worked behind the scenes on some of Julia’s film projects, such as Eat Pray Love and Homecoming.
Despite their busy schedules, the Roberts siblings reportedly stay in touch and prioritize family milestones and celebrations.
A Quick Look at the Roberts Family Tree
| Family Member | Relation | Occupation | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walter Grady Roberts | Father | Actor, playwright | Co-founder of Atlanta Actors and Writers Workshop |
| Betty Lou Bredemus | Mother | Acting coach, actress | Acting mentor to young performers in Georgia |
| Eric Roberts | Brother | Actor | Runaway Train, The Pope of Greenwich Village, The Dark Knight |
| Julia Roberts | Sister | Actress | Pretty Woman, Erin Brockovich, Notting Hill |
| Lisa Roberts Gillan | Sister | Actress, producer | Eat Pray Love, Homecoming |
| Emma Roberts | Niece (Eric’s daughter) | Actress | American Horror Story, Scream Queens, Maybe I Do |
Why the Question Still Trends
The phrase “is Eric Roberts related to Julia Roberts” continues to trend because many new fans of either actor discover them through different generations of work. Julia’s modern film appearances and Eric’s extensive filmography introduce them to audiences who may not immediately recognize the family link.
Additionally, Emma Roberts’ success often renews public interest in her family tree. Streaming services and social media highlight different eras of the Roberts family’s careers, keeping their legacy relevant for younger audiences.
The enduring fascination lies not only in their connection but in their individuality. Each member of the Roberts family has achieved success on their own terms, without relying solely on their famous surname.
The Roberts Legacy in 2026
Today, Eric Roberts remains a respected veteran actor, continuing to appear in independent films and guest roles on popular television shows. His work ethic and commitment to his craft have earned him admiration across the entertainment community.
Julia Roberts, meanwhile, remains selective with her projects. Her recent performances in Ticket to Paradise (2022) and her upcoming 2026 drama series with Apple TV+ demonstrate her ability to balance family life and her enduring career.
Together, the Roberts siblings represent two very different but equally compelling paths in Hollywood — one characterized by relentless work and reinvention, the other by enduring stardom and critical acclaim.
Their relationship today reflects maturity and mutual admiration, showing that even in a family of stars, the most meaningful role is often that of a sibling.
Final Thoughts
So, is Eric Roberts related to Julia Roberts? Absolutely. They are not only brother and sister but also key figures in one of America’s most accomplished acting families. From their parents’ early theater days to their own decades of success, the Roberts name continues to shine across generations.
Their story — marked by early struggles, separate achievements, and eventual reconciliation — reminds audiences that family bonds can withstand the pressures of fame and time. As Hollywood evolves, the Roberts family stands as a testament to talent, resilience, and the enduring power of kinship.
Hollywood may change, but the Roberts legacy remains one of its most remarkable family stories — and fans will always stay curious about what this talented family will do next.
