Eric Roberts Says Relationship with Daughter Emma Has Been Complicated

Actor Eric Roberts told listeners on the October 2024 "Inside of You" podcast that the most difficult period in his life was the loss of a relationship with his daughter, Emma Roberts. He characterized the feeling as a sadness stemming from misunderstandings that are common to human relationships, rather than overt pain.

Roberts said becoming a grandfather highlighted the emotion, noting that his eldest grandchild, who resembles Emma, reminded him of what he feels he missed. Earlier in the year, he clarified on "Really Famous With Kara Myer Robinson" that he and Emma are not estranged, describing their dynamic as "only complicated through outside eyes" because observers lack full context.

He acknowledged shortcomings as a father, stating he was not emotionally dependable during Emma's upbringing and taking full responsibility for that. Roberts recalled a moment when he sang to a newborn Emma, noting that she calmed and reached for his face, which he described as a memorable experience.

Roberts was absent from Emma's wedding to Cody John, though his sister Julia Roberts attended. In a statement released on Monday, he expressed that he loves his daughter and will always do so, adding that she is free to celebrate as she wishes with whomever she chooses. Emma's representative has not responded to requests for comment.