Emma Roberts: Eric Roberts has opened up about the “sadness” he feels over his strained relationship with his daughter, actress Emma Roberts. In a recent interview on the “Inside of You” podcast, Eric, 68, reflected on the loss of connection with Emma, 33, calling it one of the “toughest times” in his life.
“There’s not a pain, there’s a sadness for the, most likely, misunderstandings we’ll all have forever because we’re human,” Eric shared. The actor, known for his roles in The Dark Knight and Runaway Train, welcomed Emma with his ex, Kelly Cunningham, in 1991. However, due to his struggles with addiction in the 1990s, he lost custody of Emma, which he says was the “biggest consequence” of his personal battles.
In his newly released memoir, Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far, Eric candidly writes about the challenges of fatherhood and his regrets about not being more present during Emma’s childhood. “I loved my little daughter with the strength of Hercules, despite my own weaknesses,” he wrote. “However, I couldn’t handle the realities of an infant coming into my life, and I couldn’t handle being a parent. I’m still not a father figure.”
Eric revealed that his perspective on the situation shifted after becoming a grandfather. He shared that his eldest granddaughter, who resembles Emma, reminded him of “what I didn’t have” with his daughter. Emma Roberts, who shares a 3-year-old son, Rhodes Robert Hedlund, with her ex Garrett Hedlund, has not publicly commented on her father’s recent remarks.
Eric’s memoir also touches on his strained relationship with his sister, actress Julia Roberts, with whom he had a lengthy feud. Despite their tumultuous history, Eric publicly apologized to Julia, hoping to mend their relationship. In his book, he wrote, “I hope Julia will accept this public apology. It was an asinine thing to have said,” referring to his previous comments about his family’s success.
While the future of Eric and Emma’s relationship remains uncertain, his reflections suggest a longing for reconciliation. Emma, known for her successful acting career, continues to focus on her role as a mother while managing her thriving Hollywood presence.
As Eric Roberts continues to promote his memoir, his story sheds light on the complexities of family relationships in the spotlight and his journey toward self-acceptance.
