Canadian actress Bree Williamson is receiving support from friends and former colleagues following the passing of her husband, Michael John Roberts, at age 48. The animator and television director passed away after a brief battle with glioblastoma, leaving behind Williamson and their teenage son, McGreggor. The news has brought renewed attention to the actress’s personal life, including questions about her parents and family background.
Williamson, best known for portraying Jessica Buchanan on One Life to Live, was born in Toronto, Canada, and spent much of her childhood in Ontario. Although her parents have remained outside the public spotlight, details about her upbringing, education and relationship with her older sister offer insight into her early life.
Who Are Bree Williamson’s Parents?
Bree Williamson was born on December 28, 1979, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The names of Bree Williamson’s mother and father have not been reliably established in widely available public biographies or interviews.
Unlike some television personalities who frequently discuss their parents, Williamson has generally kept information about her immediate family private.
Her childhood, however, is better documented. She grew up in Pickering, Ontario, and attended Bayview Glen School in Toronto.
Williamson has spoken positively about her school years and credited her education with helping her develop the discipline and confidence needed for an acting career.
Bree Williamson’s Childhood and Education in Canada
Although Williamson was born in Toronto, she spent her early years in Pickering, a city east of Toronto.
She attended Bayview Glen School, where she participated in school plays and developed an interest in performing.
Despite enjoying theater, she did not initially plan to become a professional actress.
After graduating from high school, Williamson attended the University of Toronto, where she studied psychology and women’s studies.
Her original career interests were connected to counseling and women’s health rather than entertainment.
She also worked as a sexual health counselor while attending university.
Her educational background later influenced her interest in charitable activities and social causes.
Bree Williamson Has an Older Sister Named Tarra Williamson
Bree Williamson has an older sister named Tarra Williamson.
The sisters previously established several clothing stores together, reflecting their shared interest in fashion and business.
Williamson helped manage the businesses while balancing university studies, modeling assignments and early acting auditions.
Her sister’s involvement in the clothing industry is among the few publicly documented details about Williamson’s family outside her marriage and children.
However, further information about Tarra’s current professional activities and personal life remains limited.
How Bree Williamson Started Her Acting Career
Williamson began pursuing acting opportunities while studying at the University of Toronto.
She appeared in Canadian television productions, including Twice in a Lifetime and Mutant X, before securing her breakthrough role in the United States.
In 2003, she joined the ABC daytime drama One Life to Live as Jessica Buchanan, replacing actress Erin Torpey.
The role established her as a recognizable television performer and earned her three Daytime Emmy Award nominations.
She remained with the series until its original television run ended in 2012.
Williamson later appeared in Haven, Deception, General Hospital and several television films.
Bree Williamson’s Husband and Children
Williamson married animator and television director Michael John Roberts on September 6, 2008.
The couple welcomed their son, McGreggor Edward Roberts, on September 21, 2010.
Roberts worked on animated productions including BoJack Horseman, F Is for Family and Strange Planet.
On November 11, 2026, Roberts passed away at his Los Angeles home following a brief illness involving glioblastoma.
Williamson subsequently shared a public message thanking those who had contacted her and explaining that her family was taking time privately.
Her former television colleagues, including Michael Easton, Kristen Alderson and Tuc Watkins, expressed their condolences.
What Is Known About Bree Williamson’s Family Today?
Bree Williamson has maintained strong connections to her Canadian upbringing despite spending much of her professional career in the United States.
Her older sister, Tarra Williamson, is publicly identified, while her parents’ names and occupations have not been reliably documented.
As of November 2026, the actress is focusing on her family following the loss of her husband.
Although Williamson’s parents have remained private, her childhood in Ontario, education in Toronto and early family business experiences form an important part of her background before television success.
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