Myfanwy Edwards Roberts might not be a widely recognized name, but she is the mother of one of Hollywood’s most accomplished actresses, Naomi Watts. She is a multi-talented woman, having worked in various roles such as an antiques dealer, costume and set designer, stylist, and author. In this article, we delve into the life and career of Myfanwy Edwards Roberts and examine how she has shaped and influenced her daughter’s passion for acting.
Early Life and Marriage
Myfanwy Edwards Roberts, born on December 19, 1946, in Wales, enjoyed a creative upbringing in a family where her father was a painter, and her mother was a dancer. With an Australian mother and a Welsh father, Myfanwy inherited her distinctive name, which translates to “my woman” or “my beloved” in Welsh.
At the age of 19, Myfanwy crossed paths with Peter Watts, an English sound engineer and road manager for the renowned rock band Pink Floyd. Their union in 1966 marked the beginning of a shared life that produced two children, Ben Watts and Naomi Watts. According to Celebily, Peter Watts, a charismatic and adventurous individual, introduced Myfanwy to the realms of music and travel, fostering an environment that encouraged her to explore her artistic inclinations and talents.
Career and Divorce
Myfanwy Edwards Roberts made significant contributions to the creative world through her roles as an antiques dealer, costume and set designer in England. Additionally, she served as a stylist for the Australian television series “Return to Eden,” which aired in 1983. Beyond her visual arts involvement, she penned a book titled “The Maverick Soul.” This work showcases interviews and photographs featuring unconventional and creative individuals across various fields, including notable figures like Helena Bonham Carter, Julian Schnabel, Marianne Faithfull, and Sting, as reported by Body Height Weight.
Despite her professional pursuits, Myfanwy’s personal life faced challenges. Her marriage to Peter Watts, marred by his struggles with drug addiction, ultimately ended in divorce in 1972, when Naomi Watts was four years old and Ben Watts was three. Tragically, Peter Watts succumbed to a heroin overdose in 1976 when Naomi was seven. Following the divorce, Myfanwy single-handedly raised her two children, navigating relocations from England to Australia multiple times.
Influence on Naomi Watts
Myfanwy Edwards Roberts played a crucial role in nurturing and supporting Naomi Watts, fostering her daughter’s aspirations to become an actress despite the challenges. Myfanwy’s influence extended beyond encouragement, exposing Naomi to diverse cultures and experiences that contributed to her development as a versatile and adaptable actor.
Expressing deep gratitude and admiration, Naomi Watts credited her mother in an interview with The Guardian, stating, “She’s been everything to me – both mother and father – since I was seven years old.” Reflecting on her upbringing, Naomi emphasized the lessons of independence and resilience instilled by her mother, noting Myfanwy’s strength and creativity: “She’s always been very strong-willed – she’s had to be – but she’s also very creative.”
Inherited traits and shared passions are evident between mother and daughter. Naomi, like her mother, shares a love for antiques and vintage clothing. Moreover, she followed in Myfanwy’s footsteps by authoring a memoir titled “Lie With Me,” published in 2020. This poignant work delves into Naomi’s childhood memories and explores her relationship with her father.
Conclusion
Myfanwy Edwards Roberts transcends her role as Naomi Watts’ mother, embodying a life of richness, diversity, creativity, and courage. Confronting numerous challenges and hardships, she has also relished countless joys and accomplishments. Myfanwy serves as an inspiration to her daughter, encouraging the pursuit of acting passion and the embrace of a unique identity. Undoubtedly, she personifies a maverick soul.
