Eric Roberts publicly apologizes to sister Julia in new memoir
What's the story
Actor Eric Roberts, known for his roles in films like The Dark Knight, has issued a public apology to his sister, Julia Roberts, in his new memoir titled Runaway Train: Or, The Story of My Life So Far.
The book, which was released on Monday, delves into the siblings' tumultuous relationship, marked by a longstanding public feud.
It also explores Roberts's struggles with drug addiction and its impact on his personal life.
Book details
Roberts's memoir recounts troubled childhood, career highs and lows
In Runaway Train, Roberts describes a difficult childhood with parents Walter Roberts and Betty Lou Bredemus.
He characterizes his father as a "screwed-up individual" who was envious of his success.
Following their parents' divorce, Eric lived with his father while Julia stayed with their mother.
The memoir also chronicles key moments in Roberts's career, including his acclaimed performance in 1985's Runaway Train and his decision to decline the role of Jesus in 1988's The Last Temptation of Christ.
Apology
Roberts apologized for past comments about Julia's career
In addition to his childhood traumas, Roberts's memoir also includes an apology to Julia for past remarks he made about her acting career.
He had previously claimed, "If it wasn't for me, there would be no Julia Roberts."
In his book, he expresses regret for these comments, stating, "I hope Julia will accept this public apology. It was an asinine thing to have said."
Family conflict
Roberts's drug addiction strained family relationships
Roberts's struggles with substance abuse strained his relationships with Julia and their half-sister, Nancy Motes.
He admits in his memoir that it was "dangerous to be around me" during this period.
His addiction also led to a custody battle over his daughter, Emma Roberts, which further widened the rift with Julia as she supported Emma's mother, Kim Cunningham.
Despite these challenges, Roberts expresses a desire to mend these familial bonds.
Reconciliation hopes
'I will remain as Julia's brother and Emma's dad...'
He writes in his memoir, "I will remain as Julia's brother and Emma Roberts's dad for the rest of my life. I'd like to make good on that, to move aside proudly and with grace. That's part of the reason for writing the book."
In an earlier interview on the Still Here Hollywood podcast, Roberts had shared his discomfort discussing his sister and daughter.
When asked about Julia, he responded, "I love my sister, but I can't talk about her."