Eric Roberts reflects on losing daughter Emma due to addiction

Eric Roberts, a 68-year-old actor, has opened up about the impact of his past drug addiction on his relationship with his daughter, Emma Roberts, in his memoir, 'Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far.' Emma was born in 1991 to Eric and his ex-partner, Kelly Cunningham. Following their breakup, Eric lost custody of Emma, a consequence he attributes largely to his struggles with cocaine addiction during that time. His sister, Julia Roberts, supported Cunningham in the custody battle, further complicating Eric's relationship with his family. In his memoir, Eric reflects on the emotional toll of his addiction, stating that losing Emma was the most significant consequence of his drug use. Despite the estrangement, he expresses immense pride in Emma's acting career, praising her talent and achievements. He acknowledges that Emma has never had formal training, yet he admires her growth as an actress, describing it as a joy to witness. Eric also addresses his relationship with his sisters, Julia and Lisa Roberts Gillan, and half-sister Nancy Motes, who passed away in 2014. He recognizes that his addiction created fear and uncertainty for them, rather than the love and protection they needed. In a moment of reflection, he issued a public apology to Julia for a previous remark he made, acknowledging it as inappropriate. Overall, Eric's memoir serves as a candid exploration of his past struggles, the consequences of addiction on his family, and his journey toward recovery and reconciliation with his loved ones.