Tragedy struck the Roberts family this week, as renowned actress Julia Roberts is grieving the passing of her mother, Betty Lou Motes.
Motes, who had been battling a long illness, died at the age of 79 on May 25th, 2024.
In a brief statement, a representative for Julia Roberts said the family is “heartbroken” over the loss. “Julia is devastated by the death of her beloved mother. Betty Lou was the rock of the Roberts family, and her passing leaves a huge hole that will be impossible to fill,” the statement read.
Motes had been hospitalized for several weeks prior to her death. The family has not released the specific cause, but sources say she had been fighting a form of cancer for the past two years.
Julia Roberts, 56, was extremely close to her mother and has spoken fondly of Motes’ influence over the years. In past interviews, the Oscar-winning actress credited her mother as her biggest supporter and the driving force behind her pursuing an acting career. Funeral arrangements for Betty Lou Motes are private, but the Roberts family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Fans and colleagues alike have flooded social media with messages of condolence for Julia and her family.
