Eric Roberts and Julia Roberts are two names that have long been associated with Hollywood success. While Julia Roberts became one of the most celebrated actresses of her time, her older brother Eric Roberts also built a solid career in the film industry. However, their relationship has not always been smooth, and Eric has revealed that he avoids talking about Julia in interviews.
The Roberts Siblings: A Shared Passion for Acting
Eric Roberts was born in 1956, nearly a decade before his younger sister Julia, who was born in 1967. Raised in a family that had deep ties to acting, both siblings pursued careers in the entertainment industry. Eric gained recognition in the 1970s with standout roles in films like King of the Gypsies (1978), and later, The Dark Knight and The Expendables. Meanwhile, Julia Roberts skyrocketed to fame in the late 1980s and 1990s with blockbuster films such as Pretty Woman, Notting Hill, and Erin Brockovich, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
Despite their shared passion for acting, Eric and Julia’s relationship has experienced highs and lows.
Challenges in Eric Roberts’ Life and Career
Eric Roberts has faced personal and professional struggles that impacted his career trajectory. His challenges led to periods of separation from his family, including his sisters Julia and Lisa Roberts. While he has since worked hard to rebuild relationships, he acknowledges that his past choices made things difficult.
In a Vanity Fair interview, Eric admitted, “I wouldn’t characterize it as a falling-out. I was crazy about my sisters. Loved them, adored them. They were precious to me, and we had times of great closeness. But I was exhausting to be around: complainy, blamey, unable to enjoy enjoyment.”
His past struggles created tension within the family, and over time, the distance grew.
Eric Roberts’ Memoir and Reflections on Family
Eric has opened up about his personal journey in his memoir, Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far, in which he reflects on his childhood, career, and relationship with his sisters. One of the significant revelations in his book is how much he values his bond with his family but recognizes that the past cannot be rewritten.
He recalls a particular moment when his words deeply affected his sisters: “I’m only now beginning to realize the impact it must have had on Julie and Lisa, who were 11 and 13 years old, living with our mom but hearing their big brother… saying in public that their mom is dead.”
Rebuilding Family Bonds
Despite past struggles, a turning point in their relationship came in 2004 when Julia Roberts gave birth to her twins, Phinnaeus and Hazel. The family reconnected, and Eric was invited to meet his niece and nephew. Julia and her husband, Danny Moder, later welcomed another son, Henry Daniel, in 2007. Since then, Eric has made efforts to maintain a better relationship with his family.
While their bond has improved over the years, Eric has publicly acknowledged that he prefers not to discuss Julia in interviews, out of respect for her privacy.
Eric Roberts’ Daughter: Emma Roberts’ Rise in Hollywood
Eric’s daughter, Emma Roberts, has also made a name for herself in Hollywood. She has delivered standout performances in projects such as American Horror Story and We’re the Millers. Despite her success, Emma has shared that being part of a famous family comes with challenges, revealing that she has lost roles due to industry perceptions.
In an interview, Emma said, “People have opinions, and sometimes maybe they’re not good opinions of people in your family. I’ve never gotten a job because of it; I know I definitely have lost a couple of jobs because of it.”
Despite these challenges, Eric is immensely proud of his daughter’s career. During an interview, he shared, “I’m in love with my daughter’s work these days. I can’t believe how great she’s become. I’m so proud of her I can’t see straight.”
Why Eric Roberts Avoids Talking About Julia Roberts
In a candid interview on the Still Here Hollywood podcast, Eric revealed that discussing his sister Julia and his daughter Emma in interviews is something he tries to avoid.
“I love my sister, but I can’t talk about her. She doesn’t want to talk about it,” Eric said. “And also, my daughter told me not to talk about her, but I stumble and do. I’m not supposed to talk about either of them. But I do.”
While he deeply respects their wishes for privacy, he cannot help but express admiration for them both.
Looking Forward
Eric Roberts has come a long way in his personal and professional life. His journey, though filled with obstacles, is also a testament to resilience and growth. Writing his memoir has allowed him to reflect on his experiences and take responsibility for past mistakes.
As for Julia, she continues to be a beloved actress, and Emma Roberts is forging her own path in Hollywood. While Eric may not openly discuss his sister’s career, it is clear that he holds her in high regard.
Final Thoughts
Family relationships can be complex, especially under the public eye. For Eric Roberts, his journey with his sister Julia has had its challenges, but it has also been filled with moments of reconnection. While he may not discuss Julia often, his respect for her career and privacy remains evident.
The Roberts family’s story is one of resilience, personal growth, and love. Whether in Hollywood or in private life, their legacy continues to inspire many.
What do you think about Eric Roberts’ decision to keep discussions about Julia Roberts private? Let us know your thoughts!
