In his new memoir, “Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far,” Eric Roberts pens an apology to his sister, Julia Roberts.
The once-close bond between siblings Eric and Julia Roberts deteriorated over the years due to their fraught relationship, which the actress’s brother is now aiming to repair.
Eric and Julia Roberts attend the “Goose and Tomtom” Play Performance at Lincoln Center in New York City, on August 28, 1986 | Source: Getty Images
In his memoir, “Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far,” Eric shared that when Julia Roberts began her acting career, he encouraged others to give her opportunities. Having been in the industry for some time, he was already an established actor when his sister entered the scene.
Eric and Julia Roberts at the “Steaming” premiere at the Baronet Theater in New York City, on August 27, 1986 | Source: Getty Images
Eric acknowledged that Julia’s achievements in Hollywood were not entirely because of his influence, despite what he had previously suggested.
He stressed that while Julia didn’t have the advantage of coming from a well-known showbiz family, it didn’t mean she wouldn’t have succeeded in Hollywood without his assistance.
Julia Roberts on the set of her upcoming film “The Mexican” in Jean, Nevada, on June 7, 2000 | Source: Getty Images
He wrote, “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.'”
Julia Roberts winning Best Actress for her role Erin Brockovich, on March 25, 2001 | Source: Getty Images
Eric Roberts stated that his words were not only unfortunate but also inaccurate. He hoped Julia would accept his public apology, adding, “It was asinine thing to have said. I was proud of her, but it was pride turned on its head, to my own advantage.”
Eric Roberts during the MTV VMA – US Weekly Party Hosted by Cuervo & Ginger- Red Carpet in Miami, Florida, on August 27, 2005 | Source: Getty Images
Eric revealed that Julia wanted to be a veterinarian growing up but as his wife Eliza Roberts said, she had the looks for the big screen. Julia also had the drive and talent. Eric noted that even without his help, someone would have spotted Julia and assisted her in soaring in Hollywood.
Julia Roberts stars in the movie “Erin Brockovich,” on February 22, 2000 | Source: Getty Images
Still, Eric noted that he was born to be an actor, having moved to New York at a young age. After he settled down, he asked his sister to join him in the big city. So, Eric insisted he would take credit for introducing Julia and Eliza to acting.
The visit ended with Eric and Julia now maintaining regular email correspondence.
Julia Roberts on the set of Spielberg’s film “Hook,” in Los Angeles, on January 1, 1991 | Source: Getty Images
He claimed that if Julia had stayed in Atlanta, she would have married a wealthy man and led a different life. “She saw my life as a young actor in New York, and saw what I was doing for my livelihood, and she wanted to try it,” explained Eric.
Eric Roberts and Edan Gross on the set of the movie “Best of the Best 2,” circa 1993. | Source: Getty Images
In 2018, Eric revealed the reasons behind his estrangement from Julia. He acknowledged his deep affection for his sister and the close bond they once shared. Nevertheless, he admitted that his struggles with substance abuse created significant strain.
Eric Roberts arrives at the Premiere of A24’s “Room” in West Hollywood, California, on October 13, 2015 | Source: Getty Images
Eric reflected on how his behavior, marked by negativity and complaints, made him difficult to be around, leading to his alienation from Julia and others.
Eric Roberts attends a Cocktail Party Benefiting Music For Relief in Brentwood, California, on November 14, 2016 | Source: Getty Images
When Julia and her husband, Danny Moder, welcomed their twins in 2004, Eric and Eliza visited the hospital to deliver gifts. However, the visit turned into a heartfelt reunion, filled with familial warmth.
Julia Roberts and Danny Moder at Sean Penn hosts 10th Anniversary Gala Benefiting CORE in Los Angeles, on January, 15 2020 | Source: Getty Images
This moment marked a turning point, leading to shared Thanksgiving celebrations and the development of a more connected relationship. The visit ended with Eric and Julia now maintaining regular email correspondence.
Eric Roberts attends the Global Premiere Screening of “Babylon” at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, California, on December 15, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Now, just like Julia, Eric’s daughter, Emma Roberts, is a big name in Hollywood having followed in the family’s footsteps. “I am so proud of her, I can’t see straight,” Eric said of his daughter.
Emma Roberts seen at STXfilm presents the World Premiere of “Ugly Dolls” in Los Angeles, California, on April 27, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
Eric, who has acted in over 700 films, added that he loves his sister and daughter and he isn’t supposed to talk about them but he does.
Eric Roberts attends the world premiere of Netflix’s “Day Shift” in Los Angeles, California, on August 10, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Now, Eric has since clarified that any current issues with his sister are misreported. He explained that during a movie promotion, an interviewer inquired about his sister, to which he suggested they focus on him instead.
Eric Roberts attends the Los Angeles premiere of “Princess Love” in Burbank, California, on July 29, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
From this interaction, rumors began circulating about a rift and a supposed directive to avoid discussing her, which he insists is not true. With his public apology, Eric appears to be seeking a fresh start with Julia.