Eric Anthony Roberts, born on April 18, 1956, is an American actor with a prolific career spanning over 50 years. His journey in the entertainment industry has been marked by versatility, dedication, and a staggering number of credits across various mediums. Let’s delve into the fascinating life and career of this talented artist.
Early Life and Background
Eric Roberts was born in Biloxi, Mississippi, to Betty Lou Bredemus and Walter Grady Roberts. His parents were once actors and playwrights who met while touring with a production of George Washington Slept Here for the armed forces. In 1963, they co-founded the Atlanta Actors and Writers Workshop in Atlanta, Georgia, where they ran a children’s acting school1.
Career Highlights
Golden Globe Nominations: Roberts received his first Golden Globe Award nomination for his leading role in King of the Gypsies (1978). He was nominated again for his acclaimed portrayal of Paul Snider in Bob Fosse’s Star 80 (1983).
Academy Award Nomination: His performance in Runaway Train (1985) as prison escapee Buck McGeehy earned him a third Golden Globe nod and a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Filmography: Roberts has appeared in a wide range of films, including Raggedy Man (1981), The Pope of Greenwich Village (1984), The Specialist (1994), The Dark Knight (2008), and The Expendables (2010).
Television Work: He played the Master in the 1996 Doctor Who television film and had recurring roles in series like Heroes, The Young and the Restless, and Suits.
Social Media Presence: Roberts has a substantial following on social media platforms. On TikTok, he has over 1.2 million fans with the username @ericroberts44. His Instagram handle is @Eric.Roberts__2.
Net Worth
Eric Roberts’ net worth is estimated to be $2 million. Despite career ups and downs, he remains a hardworking actor with a passion for his craft3.
Interesting Facts
Roberts holds a black belt in taekwondo and showcased his martial arts skills in films like Best of the Best (1989) and its sequel.
He is the older brother of actress Julia Roberts and the father of actress Emma Roberts.
Roberts has embraced faith-based projects and continues to contribute to both mainstream and Christian cinema4.
Controversy
Roberts’ life hasn’t been without controversy. His past struggles with drug addiction strained his relationship with Julia Roberts. However, they reconciled in 2004 when he visited her in the hospital after she gave birth to twins1.
In summary, Eric Roberts remains an enduring figure in Hollywood, leaving an indelible mark on both the big screen and our hearts.
