“It’s only complicated through outside eyes, because they don’t get any of it,” Eric Roberts stated during a recent podcast, shedding light on his relationship with daughter Emma Roberts. The 69-year-old actor addressed long-standing rumors about their family dynamics, revealing the emotional barriers he faced due to his struggles with depression and substance abuse.

Emma Roberts, now 35 and engaged to Cody John, has built a successful acting career, but her father’s admission highlights the complexities of their relationship. Eric expressed “endless pride” in Emma’s achievements, emphasizing that the perception of their bond is often skewed by outsiders.

Reflecting on his past, Eric acknowledged his emotional unavailability as a father, stating, “If it wasn’t for me, there would be no Julia Roberts and no Emma Roberts as celebrities, as actresses, and I’m very proud of that.” This statement underscores his complicated legacy within the family, particularly in light of his previous comments about his sister, Julia Roberts.

In his memoir, Runaway Train, released in 2024, Eric apologized for past remarks about Julia, admitting, “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.’ That’s not only unfortunate, but it’s also untrue.” This acknowledgment marks a significant step in mending their relationship.

Despite their disagreements, Eric described Julia as a “wonderful actor” and “wonderful human,” indicating a mutual respect that has endured over the years. He noted that he and Julia do not discuss each other publicly, which adds another layer to the family’s intricate dynamics.

Eric Roberts, who has a son named Rhodes, aged 5, continues to navigate his personal challenges while supporting his daughter’s career. Emma’s journey has been shaped by both her father’s struggles and her own resilience, making her success all the more remarkable.

As the conversation around mental health and family relationships evolves, Eric’s candidness serves as a reminder of the complexities that often lie beneath the surface of public personas. The Roberts family story is one of both struggle and triumph, with each member carving out their own path in the entertainment industry.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any future collaborations or public appearances by the Roberts family, but the ongoing dialogue about their relationships continues to resonate with fans and observers alike.