Fatherhood Regrets Revealed

Eric Roberts is opening up about the realities behind his long-discussed relationship with daughter Emma Roberts, offering a more nuanced perspective on their bond and the challenges that have shaped it over the years.

Appearing on the “Really Famous With Kara Mayer Robinson” podcast, the veteran actor, 69, addressed longstanding public assumptions about his connection with the American Horror Story star, 35. While outside observers have often framed their relationship as strained, Roberts suggested that perception is largely driven by misunderstanding rather than fact.

“Not really. It’s only complicated through outside eyes because they don’t get any of it, so they have their own take, whatever that is,” he said.

Roberts acknowledged that family dynamics are rarely linear, noting that his relationship with Emma has evolved over time. Despite past difficulties, he emphasized his admiration for her career trajectory, pointing to her growth as a performer from her early roles to her more established presence in television and film.

Emma Roberts, whose credits span projects from Scream Queens to American Horror Story, has built a steady career in Hollywood, following in the footsteps of her famous family. She is the daughter of Roberts and Kelly Cunningham, and the niece of Oscar-winning actress Julia Roberts, whose own success has long cast a spotlight on the extended Roberts family.

Reflecting on Emma Roberts’ early years, Eric Roberts acknowledged he was emotionally unavailable following her birth in 1991, citing struggles with depression that created distance in their relationship.

Speaking previously on Michael Rosenbaum’s “Inside of You” podcast in 2024, he described the breakdown of their bond as one of the most difficult periods of his life, suggesting some misunderstandings may remain unresolved.

Emma Roberts, who shares son Rhodes with Garrett Hedlund, has largely kept their relationship private while focusing on her career and expanding work as a producer.

In his memoir, Eric Roberts addressed his absence during her upbringing, expressing accountability and acceptance regarding custody decisions, while continuing to reflect on his past in recent interviews.