Key Takeaways:
– Eric Roberts has over 700 acting credits to his name.
– He first gained attention with television soap operas, but has since played a diverse range of roles in films and TV.
– Roberts’ struggles with substance abuse have affected his career trajectory but he continues to be an active contributor to Hollywood.
– His future projects include the release of his autobiography, “Runaway Train: The Story of My Life So Far”.
Eric Roberts, born on April 18, 1956, in Biloxi, Mississippi, has established himself as one of the most prolific actors of all time. He moved to Atlanta, Georgia with his family at a young age and was exposed to the world of performing arts through his parents’ children’s acting school. Starting with local productions, Roberts made his national television debut in 1974 and since then has amassed over 700 acting credits.
A Challenging Early Life and Career Beginnings
Roberts’ parents divorced in 1972, leading him to live with his father while his sister, Julia Roberts, stayed with their mother. His father passed away five years later, but Eric’s passion for acting remained steadfast. He went on to study at the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City before landing minor roles in both stage productions and TV shows. His first notable role was in the 1974 soap opera, “How to Survive a Marriage”, although he modestly self-proclaims as the “worst soap opera actor ever”.
Securing Critical Acclaim
Roberts’ cinematic debut came in 1978 with “King of the Gypsies”, garnering him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture Acting Debut. His engrossing performance as troubled teenager Paul Cromwell in the 1980 television movie “Paul’s Case” caught the attention of critics. His skill at portraying emotionally complex characters continued to shine in subsequent movies like “Raggedy Man”.
Battling Substance Abuse and Its Impact
The actor’s early career was marred by substance abuse. This hit a crescendo in June 1981 when a car accident, while he was high on cocaine, led to injuries and physical therapy. This episode reportedly affected his personal relationships and professional standing in Hollywood, despite his undoubted acting talent.
Peaking Career and Oscar Nomination
Roberts channeled his personal struggles into his acting, with a standout performance as a real-life murder in “Star 80” in 1983. His powerful portrayal of escaped convict Buck in “Runaway Train” won him a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination. To this day, Eric remains extremely popular in Russia thanks to this movie, directed by Russian filmmaker Andrey Konchalovskiy.
Versatility and Resilience
From the late 1980s to the early 1990s, Roberts continued to demonstrate his versatility and resilience. He delivered impactful performances in an array of films and TV shows, from thrillers to comedies. Despite battling an addiction, he maintained a strong presence in Hollywood.
The New Millennium: Continuing Success
As the new millennium rolled in, Roberts remained a potent force in both the big and small screens. From indie dramas to blockbuster films, Roberts exhibited his acting prowess. He also demonstrated his commitment to recovery through his appearance on “Celebrity Rehab” in 2010.
Family Connections and Forthcoming Projects
In recent years, Roberts has reconciled with his sister Julia and is also related to actor Edward Norton. His daughter, Emma Roberts, is a popular Hollywood actress. Eric is set to release his autobiography “Runaway Train: The Story of My Life So Far” in 2024, giving fans a closer look at his incredible journey so far.
To sum it up, Eric Roberts’ journey in Hollywood is a remarkable mix of stellar performances, resilience in the face of personal challenges, and an unwavering commitment to the craft. From his early foray into soap operas to his impressive list of film and TV credits, Roberts remains an icon in his own right. His story continues to inspire, reflecting his evolution as an artist and a person. Truly, what has happened to Eric Roberts is a testament to a life lived passionately and courageously.
