Eric Roberts Admits He Was an Emotional ‘Car Wreck’ When He Became a Dad to Emma: ‘I Was Not to Be Depended On’

**Eric Roberts Reflects on Fatherhood Struggles During Daughter’s Birth**

Eric Roberts, the veteran actor and father of actress Emma Roberts, has candidly revisited the emotional turbulence he faced during the early days of his fatherhood. In a revealing appearance on the podcast *Really Famous* hosted by Kara Mayer Robinson, the 69-year-old reflected on his emotional state at the time of Emma’s birth in 1991, describing himself as a “car wreck” who was “not to be depended on emotionally.”

The actor stated, “I was emotionally … a wash rag,” discussing his struggles with personal issues, addiction, and depression. He has openly accepted responsibility for the challenging period, acknowledging his turbulent feelings partly stemmed from discovering uncomfortable truths about his own father. He admitted that the loyalty he had been taught was intertwined with reckless behaviour, which complicated his approach to fatherhood.

Despite this emotional chaos, Eric carries fond memories of the day Emma was born. He described the moment vividly, recalling how she was “screaming her head off” while he sang “Happy Birthday” to her, a gesture that appeared to calm her. “It was magic,” he reflected, underscoring the instant connection he felt upon seeing his daughter for the first time. “It was the most complete moment maybe I have ever had in my life,” he said, highlighting the marvel of their bond.

However, Eric’s admission about the realities of parenting contrasting sharply with his initial joy as a new father is telling. In his soon-to-be-released memoir, *Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far*, he elucidates how he fell “madly in love” with Emma but struggled with the day-to-day challenges of raising a child. “I couldn’t handle being a parent!” he confessed candidly, acknowledging that feelings of pride also came with personal shortcomings.

The actor also opened up about his relationship with Emma’s mother, Kelly Cunningham, admitting that he left her when Emma was just seven months old. While he expressed gratitude for Kelly’s support during his darkest hours, he recognised that their tumultuous relationship impacted their family dynamic. “She saw me at my absolute worst,” he remarked, indicating the complexity of their circumstances.

During the podcast, Eric made a point to clarify misconceptions surrounding his relationship with Emma. He remarked that outside observers often misinterpret the family’s situation due to a lack of understanding of their unique experiences. “It’s only complicated through outside eyes because they don’t get any of it,” he commented, defending the emotional reality he shares with his daughter.

Now a proud grandfather, Eric noted the evolution of family dynamics today, which he feels are more open and accepting compared to his own experiences raising Emma. “It’s nice that we’re in a different place now,” he stated, praising the modern approach to parenting as healthier than during his era.

Over the years, Eric has been vocal about his pride in Emma, despite some warnings to restrain his enthusiasm. “I’m not supposed to talk about either of them,” he observed, referencing his daughter and sister, Julia Roberts. Nonetheless, he expressed elation at Emma’s growth as an actress, saying he could hardly believe how talented she has become.

Looking back on his life, Eric underscored the importance of personal growth. “The hardest person to protect yourself from is yourself,” he shared in a previous interview, indicating his struggles have taught him valuable lessons that resonate with his family relationships, including with his sisters.

Ultimately, the poignant memories of Emma’s birth stand out most vividly for Eric. “We recognised each other in her first moments of life,” he recalled, labelling it the most incredible experience he has ever lived through. The bond forged in those fleeting moments continues to shape not only his identity as a father but also as a man navigating the complexities of life.