Eric Roberts offers ‘public apology’ to sister Julia Roberts

Eric Roberts’ “Dancing with the Stars” debut Tuesday night offered a rare glimpse into the world of one of the most respected actors in the business.

The “Runaway Train” star’s latest TV appearances appear to be another step for Roberts to right the wrongs of the past, much of which he chronicles in his new memoir, “Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far.”

In the book, Roberts offered his sister, Oscar winner Julia Roberts, a “public apology” for words he once said about their famous family.

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Eric Roberts apologized to his sister Julia Roberts in his new memoir, “Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far.” (Getty Images)

The “Righteous Gemstones” star made headlines in 2018 when he took responsibility for his sister’s award-winning career, in addition to his daughter Emma Roberts’ status in Hollywood.

“If it weren’t for me, Julia Roberts and Emma Roberts wouldn’t exist as celebrities and actresses, and I’m very proud of that,” he told Vanity Fair.

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Roberts walked back that statement, offering the “Pretty Woman” star an olive branch nearly six years later.

On Tuesday, Eric competed on “Dancing with the Stars” with pro Britt Stewart. (Getty Images)

“I hope Julia will accept this public apology. It was an idiotic thing to say,” he wrote, according to People magazine.

His history in film and television roles is almost as extensive as his reputation when the cameras weren’t rolling.

“I hope Julia will accept this public apology. It was a stupid thing to say.”

—Eric Roberts

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In 1981, Roberts was involved in a car accident and ended up in a coma for three days. The accident and years of drug abuse as a cocaine addict took their toll on his mind and body, as well as affecting his personal relationships.

Eric and Julia (pictured in 1996) have been active in the entertainment industry for quite some time. (Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)

“I wouldn’t be surprised if they suffered from PTSD when it was dangerous to be around me,” he admitted in the book about his bond with his sisters. “Lisa and Julia needed love and protection — instead they got fear and insecurity.

“The biggest consequence of my drug use was of course that I lost Emma.”

Eric claimed that he was responsible for the careers of Julia and his daughter, Emma Roberts, in Hollywood. (Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic)

Roberts was in the grip of his addiction when he claimed Julia supported his ex, Kim Cunningham, in a custody battle over Emma.

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“I think I will be Julia’s brother and Emma Roberts’ father for the rest of my life,” he wrote. “I want to live up to that, to step aside with pride and grace. That’s one of the reasons for writing this book.”