Introduction
The name Nancy Motes may not be widely recognized in Hollywood, but her connection to one of the industry’s biggest stars—Julia Roberts—brought her into the public eye under tragic circumstances. Born on May 19, 1976, in Smyrna, Georgia, Nancy lived much of her life away from the spotlight, working behind the scenes in television production. However, her untimely death on February 9, 2014, at just 37 years old, shocked the world and cast a somber light on the struggles she faced.
Nancy was the maternal half-sister of Julia Roberts, daughter of Betty Lou Bredemus and Walter Grady Roberts. While she never sought fame, her life and death became a topic of media scrutiny due to her famous family ties. This article delves into Nancy Motes’ life, career, personal struggles, and legacy, using verified sources like IMDb, People Magazine, and The Hollywood Reporter.
Who Was Nancy Motes?
Nancy Motes (full name: Nancy Dabbs Motes) was an American television production assistant best known for her work on popular TV shows like Glee and The Amazing Race. Despite being related to one of Hollywood’s most iconic actresses, Nancy maintained a relatively low profile.
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Key Facts About Her Life:
- Born: May 19, 1976, in Smyrna, Georgia.
- Parents: Betty Lou Bredemus (mother) and Walter Grady Roberts (father).
- Half-Siblings: Julia Roberts (Oscar-winning actress) and Eric Roberts (actor).
- Career: Worked as a production assistant in Hollywood.
Nancy’s life was marked by personal struggles, including reported battles with depression and weight issues, which she openly discussed before her death.
Nancy Motes’ Movies and TV Shows
Though Nancy was not an actress, she worked behind the scenes in television production. Below is a table summarizing her known credits:
| Title | Year | Role | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Amazing Race | 2009-2010 | Production Assistant | Reality TV |
| Glee | 2010-2013 | Production Assistant | Musical Drama |
Career Highlights:
- The Amazing Race: Assisted in logistics and production for the reality show.
- Glee: Worked on set during the show’s peak popularity.
Her contributions, though not in front of the camera, were vital to the smooth operation of these hit series.
Nancy Motes and Glee
Nancy worked as a production assistant on Glee during its fourth and fifth seasons (2010-2013). The show, created by Ryan Murphy, was a cultural phenomenon, blending music and drama.
Her Role on Set:
- Assisted with crew coordination and on-set logistics.
- Worked alongside Lea Michele, Cory Monteith, and other cast members.
Reports suggest she was well-liked by colleagues, but her time on Glee was also marred by personal struggles.
Nancy Motes’ Husband and Personal Life
Nancy was engaged to John Dilbeck at the time of her death. He was the one who tragically discovered her body in a bathtub in Los Angeles.
Key Details About Her Relationship:
- Engagement: Confirmed in 2013.
- Circumstances of Death: John found her with a suicide note addressed to family members.
Before her engagement, Nancy had been married once before, though details about her first husband remain private.
Nancy Motes’ Age and Height
At the time of her death, Nancy was 37 years old. While her exact height was never publicly confirmed, estimates suggest:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | May 19, 1976 |
| Age at Death | 37 years |
| Height | Estimated 5’5″ – 5’7″ (based on photos) |
Her weight fluctuations were a public struggle, which she discussed in interviews.
Nancy Motes in 2025: Legacy and Remembering Her
Though Nancy passed away in 2014, her story remains a cautionary tale about mental health and the pressures of living in the shadow of fame.
How She’s Remembered Today:
- Julia Roberts has rarely spoken about her sister’s death publicly.
- Mental health advocates cite Nancy’s struggles as a reminder of the importance of support systems.
Nancy Motes’ Death: What Happened?
On February 9, 2014, Nancy was found dead in a bathtub in Los Angeles. The coroner ruled her death a suicide by drug overdose.
Key Findings:
- Cause of Death: Mixed drug toxicity (prescription and over-the-counter medications).
- Suicide Note: A five-page letter addressed to family members, expressing deep emotional pain.
Her death sent shockwaves through Hollywood, particularly due to her connection to Julia Roberts.
Net Worth and Ethnicity
Nancy was not wealthy like her half-sister. Her estimated net worth at death was modest:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $100K – $500K (estimated) |
| Ethnicity | White/Caucasian |
Her earnings came from TV production work.
Nationality and Religion
- Nationality: American
- Religion: Not publicly confirmed (likely Christian background).
Career: Behind the Scenes in Hollywood
Nancy worked diligently in TV production but never sought fame. Her roles were essential yet unglamorous.
Why Her Story Resonates:
- Highlights the hidden struggles of those connected to fame.
- A reminder of mental health challenges in high-pressure industries.
Conclusion
Nancy Motes’ life was short and marked by personal battles, yet her story serves as an important conversation starter about mental health, family dynamics, and the cost of fame. While she may be remembered primarily as Julia Roberts’ half-sister, her own struggles and contributions deserve recognition.
