“It’s only complicated through outside eyes, because they don’t get any of it,” Eric Roberts shared during a recent podcast appearance, shedding light on his relationship with his daughter, Emma Roberts. The 69-year-old actor opened up about the challenges he faced as a father, admitting that his struggles with depression and substance abuse impacted their bond during Emma’s formative years.
Now 35 and engaged to Cody John, Emma has carved out a successful acting career of her own. Eric expressed his ‘endless pride’ in her accomplishments, emphasizing the complexity of their relationship. “If it wasn’t for me, there would be no Julia Roberts and no Emma Roberts as celebrities, as actresses, and I’m very proud of that,” he stated, reflecting on the legacy of their family in Hollywood.
Despite the challenges, Eric acknowledged that their relationship is often misinterpreted. He noted, “She’s a wonderful actor, she’s a wonderful human. I think she’s even a wonderful mother — that’s the hardest job there is.” This sentiment highlights a deep respect for Emma’s journey as both an actress and a parent.
In his memoir, Runaway Train, released in 2024, Eric also addressed previous comments he made about his sister, Julia Roberts. He apologized for suggesting that his own career was the foundation for Julia’s success, admitting, “Now one of the things I’d like to apologize for in this book is for publicly saying on more than one occasion, ‘If it wasn’t for me, there would be no Julia Roberts.’ That’s not only unfortunate, but it’s also untrue.”
Eric’s candid reflections come at a time when he is striving to mend his relationships with both Emma and Julia. He emphasized that while there have been disagreements, he respects Julia and values their familial ties. “We do not speak about each other publicly,” he clarified, indicating a desire for privacy amidst their complex family dynamics.
As Eric continues to navigate his personal challenges, he remains hopeful about the future of his relationships with Emma and Julia. His openness about his past struggles serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and compassion in family connections. The Roberts family story is one of resilience, and Eric’s recent revelations provide a deeper insight into their journey together.
