Eric Roberts, the actor and brother of Julia Roberts, has publicly apologized for his past comments regarding his sister’s successful career. In his new memoir, Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far, Eric expresses regret for previously claiming credit for Julia’s achievements in Hollywood.
In the memoir, Eric writes, “I hope Julia will accept this public apology. It was an asinine thing to have said.” His earlier remarks, made during a 2018 interview with Vanity Fair, suggested that without him, Julia and their niece Emma Roberts would not be successful actresses. He stated at that time, “If it wasn’t for me, there would be no Julia Roberts and no Emma Roberts as celebrities.”
Eric also claimed to have played a role in helping Julia secure representation with the William Morris Agency. Reflecting on his past statements in his memoir, he acknowledges his complicated relationship with both Julia and Emma. He writes, “I imagine I will remain as Julia’s brother and Emma Roberts’ dad for the rest of my life.
I’d like to make good on that, to move aside proudly and with grace.”
At 68 years old, Eric began his acting career at 17 in New York City. He gained fame with his breakout role in the 1978 film King of the Gypsies and received an Oscar nomination for his supporting role in Runaway Train (1985).
Julia Roberts arrived in New York in 1985 and quickly rose to stardom.
She received Academy Award nominations for her performances in Steel Magnolias (1990) and Pretty Woman (1991), winning the Best Actress Oscar for Erin Brockovich (2001).
In his memoir, Eric Roberts opens up about his troubled upbringing and the impact of his drug addiction on his relationships. He admits that his struggles affected not only his career but also his bond with Julia and their sister Lisa. He reflects on how they needed love and protection but instead faced fear and uncertainty due to his behavior.
Eric’s drug use also led to a custody battle over his daughter, Emma Roberts, which strained his relationship with Julia, who supported Emma’s mother during that time. He acknowledges that this was ultimately the right decision.
As he concludes his memoir, Eric emphasizes the importance of family and healing from past wounds. He hopes to move forward with grace and pride as he continues to navigate life as Julia’s brother and Emma’s father.
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