Eric Roberts Thought His Days as an Actor ‘Were Probably Over’ Until He Was Cast in Bob Fosse’s Last Film

Eric Roberts, the acclaimed actor, recently reflected on a tumultuous period in his life before his pivotal role in the 1983 film ‘Star 80.’ Known for his portrayal of Paul Snider in the movie, Roberts appeared on the It Happened in Hollywood podcast hosted by Seth Abramovitch, where he discussed not only his career but also the personal struggles he faced leading up to the film’s production.

At just 27 years old, Roberts believed his acting career was effectively over following a serious car accident. He endured significant challenges, including a brief coma, short-term memory loss, and issues with coordination. He candidly acknowledged that this period resulted in “the deepest depression” of his life.

Despite his circumstances, a call from his manager altered the course of Roberts’s career. His manager mentioned a script by the legendary Bob Fosse that had not been officially released but was deemed worthy of consideration for Roberts’s talent. “I know you’re a big fan of Bob Fosse,” recalled Roberts, emphasising the excitement he felt upon hearing the news.

Initially, however, Roberts had reservations about the script for ‘Star 80.’ He described it as “too black and white,” which made the narrative seem simplistic and unengaging. Nonetheless, the prospect of working with Fosse, a figure he greatly admired, kept his interest alive. Roberts said he ultimately decided to push through his initial misgivings and focus on the opportunity rather than the script’s perceived shortcomings.

His dedication during auditions paid off when Fosse confirmed that Roberts would receive a callback, leading to several rounds of auditions. Roberts estimated that he auditioned five or six times before Fosse offered him the role. This persistence and commitment to the project demonstrated his resilience and determination to return to acting.

Once cast, Roberts collaborated closely with Fosse for three months. He noted that his understanding of the film evolved significantly during this time. Rather than viewing Snider’s story solely as an outlier of tragic events, Roberts began to see wider implications in the narrative. He articulated that individuals akin to Snider exist all around us, especially within the entertainment industry, where “obnoxiousness” and “ego” are prevalent.

Following ‘Star 80,’ Roberts’s performance garnered critical acclaim, resulting in a nomination for a Golden Globe in the Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama category. The film itself was Fosse’s last directorial work before his death, adding a poignant layer to its legacy and Roberts’s career trajectory.

In the years following, Eric Roberts has solidified his position in Hollywood, becoming one of the most prolific actors with more than 700 film and television credits to his name. In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter in 2022, he expressed gratitude for his enduring opportunities in the industry, stating, “I consider myself one of the luckiest guys in Hollywood.”

Roberts continues to receive a remarkable volume of offers each day, often ranging from eight to 30, which highlights his ongoing relevance and versatility across genres. His filmography includes memorable roles in projects such as the 1985 thriller ‘Runaway Train’—a performance that earned him an Oscar nomination—and prominent appearances in hits like ‘The Dark Knight,’ ‘Inherent Vice,’ and ‘Babylon.’

Additionally, his presence in television has been notable with recurring roles in series like ‘Heroes,’ ‘The Young and the Restless,’ ‘Suits,’ and ‘The Righteous Gemstones,’ showcasing his range and adaptability as an actor.

As he reflects on his earlier struggles and the subsequent success that followed, Eric Roberts stands as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity, proving that the journey through hardship can lead to outstanding achievements in the arts.