In a recent interview with the History Channel, Julia Roberts revealed a very moving, little-known connection between her family and the immense American political figure that was Pastor Martin Luther King Jr.
It is an understatement to say that the anecdote is both totally unexpected and very moving. In September, Julia Roberts was one of the guests in a Talk Show on the TV History Channel, devoted to the immense American political figure that was Pastor Martin Luther King Jr; one of the most important political figures of the 20th century.
At first glance, it is not clear why the actress would come to speak on the subject. At least, until she delivers the personal and family history that binds her to the man who devoted his life to fighting segregation.
Julia Roberts’ parents, Walter and Betty Lou, ran a children’s theater called Actors and Writers Workshop in Atlanta, before the birth of their daughter. This theater became the link between the Roberts family and the King family, as Walter and Betty Lou accepted the Kings’ children into their establishment, at a time when segregation was still very entrenched.
Julia Roberts says her parents didn’t hesitate for a second: “One day, Coretta [King] called my mother and asked her if her children could be part of the school because they were struggling to find a place that would accept her children. My mother said, “Of course, come!”, and they became friends.”
The Kings’ eldest daughter, Yolanda, who frequented the theater, remembered Julia Roberts’ parents fondly in 2001. “Mr. Roberts was so imposing. I loved him, but I was also a bit intimidated by him too. He taught me so much, with Mrs. Roberts, about working, living and really being open [d’esprit], to seize life and make the most of it. All the black and white kids were together, there were no racial issues.”
When Julia was born on October 28, 1967 in Smyrna, Georgia, her parents were in serious financial trouble. Luther King’s Family then came to the aid of Julia’s: “the King family paid the hospital bill where I was born” says the actress, while her parents were unable to pay the hospital costs for the delivery.
The recent reminder of this moving family history by Julia Roberts resonated within the King family, in particular with the youngest of the pastor’s daughters, Bernice King, who wanted to express her gratitude to the actress for having shared this memory. “I know this story well. But it is moving for me to remember the generosity and influence of my parents.”