Actor Eric Roberts was notably absent from his daughter Emma Roberts' recent wedding to Cody John, an event that included A-list guests such as Julia Roberts, the groom's aunt. The absence has brought renewed attention to the complicated dynamics within the Roberts family, particularly Eric's long-strained relationship with his daughter and his estranged bond with his sister, Julia.
Emma, 35, and Cody, 36, exchanged vows in Idaho. While stars like Demi Moore, Kristen Stewart, and Sarah Paulson were in attendance, Eric Roberts, 70, was not present. Emma was walked down the aisle by her son, Rhodes, five, whom she shares with ex-partner Garrett Hedlund.
In a statement to the Daily Mail, Eric Roberts said, "I love my daughter, always have, always will. It is perfectly wonderful for her to celebrate however she wants, with whomever she wants." The reasons for his absence remain unclear, but sources suggest friction between father and daughter played a role. A source told the Daily Mail that Emma "did not invite her father to her wedding because she doesn't want to be around him" and that she has felt he has not been a supportive father.
Roberts has previously been candid about his struggles with substance addiction and his parenting. In an interview earlier this year, he described his relationship with Emma as "complicated" only to outsiders, expressing pride in her achievements. However, he also acknowledged past difficulties, admitting he "was not to be depended on emotionally whatsoever" during her childhood. He lost custody of Emma to her mother, Kelly Cunningham, due to his admitted drug use.
Roberts' relationship with his sister Julia has also been marked by periods of estrangement. He has publicly apologized for a past comment suggesting Julia's success would not have happened without him, a remark he claims was taken out of context. Despite these rifts, Roberts has stated they remain close, with Julia being "a cool chick." The siblings reportedly reunited in 2004 after the birth of Julia's twins, Hazel and Phinnaeus, and have maintained contact since.
The actor's career, marked by over 800 acting credits, has been influenced by his past substance abuse, which he has admitted stalled his professional opportunities. His memoir, "Runaway Train: Or the Story of My Life So Far," delves into his personal and professional life, including his addiction and complex family relationships.