Eric Roberts In The 1980s: A Look Back At The Rebellious Star's Early Career

The 1980s was a pivotal decade for Eric Roberts, marking the beginning of his illustrious acting career. With a string of notable roles in films like "Runaway Train" and "The Pope of Greenwich Village," Roberts established himself as a rebellious and talented young actor. In this article, we'll delve into Roberts' early career, exploring the projects that shaped his craft and laid the foundation for his future success.

Eric Roberts' journey to stardom began in the late 1970s, when he started landing small roles in television shows and films. However, it was the 1980s that saw him rise to prominence, thanks to a combination of his natural talent, strategic career choices, and a dash of bad boy charm. As the decade progressed, Roberts found himself at the center of several notable projects, cementing his status as a rising star in Hollywood.

Early Career Highlights

• Television debut: Roberts made his television debut in 1978 with a guest role on the popular sitcom "The Rockford Files."
• Breakout role: His breakthrough performance came in 1980 with the film "Summer of '42," a coming-of-age drama that earned him critical acclaim and recognition.
• Notable films: The 1980s saw Roberts starring in a range of notable films, including "Runaway Train" (1985), "The Pope of Greenwich Village" (1984), and "Streets of Fire" (1984).

The Rebel with a Cause

Eric Roberts' early career was marked by a desire to challenge the status quo and push boundaries. He often took on roles that were darker, more intense, and less conventional, which set him apart from his peers. This rebellious streak was evident in his performances, which conveyed a sense of raw emotion and unbridled energy.

• Influences: Roberts has cited actors like Marlon Brando and Robert De Niro as influences on his work, praising their ability to bring complexity and depth to their characters.
• Rebel roles: Films like "Runaway Train" and "The Pope of Greenwich Village" showcased Roberts' willingness to take on more mature and edgy roles, solidifying his reputation as a rebellious and talented young actor.

Collaborations and Friendships

The 1980s saw Roberts forming close bonds with other actors, writers, and directors who shared his passion for bold storytelling. One notable collaboration was with director Phil Joanou, with whom he worked on several projects, including "The Pope of Greenwich Village" and "Matewan" (1987).

• Collaborations: Roberts' work with Phil Joanou was marked by a deep understanding and mutual respect, resulting in several critically acclaimed films.
• Friendships: His friendships with actors like Mickey Rourke and Robert De Niro were forged through their shared experiences and passion for the craft, providing a supportive network that helped Roberts navigate the ups and downs of the industry.

Career Milestones

The 1980s were a transformative time for Eric Roberts, marked by significant career milestones that set the stage for his future success. As he navigated the ups and downs of the industry, Roberts continued to push boundaries and take on new challenges, solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile actor.

• Awards and nominations: Roberts received critical acclaim for his performances in films like "Runaway Train" and "The Pope of Greenwich Village," earning him nominations for several awards, including the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor.
• Industry recognition: His work during the 1980s earned him recognition within the industry, with Roberts being named one of the "Most Promising Newcomers of 1985" by The Hollywood Reporter.

Conclusion

Eric Roberts' early career in the 1980s was a defining period in his journey to stardom. With a string of notable roles, strategic collaborations, and a rebellious spirit, Roberts established himself as a talented and versatile actor. As he looks back on this pivotal decade, Roberts' body of work continues to inspire and influence new generations of actors, solidifying his legacy as one of Hollywood's most enduring stars.

Featured Films

• Runaway Train (1985)
• The Pope of Greenwich Village (1984)
• Streets of Fire (1984)
• Matewan (1987)

Trivia

• Eric Roberts is the older brother of actress Julia Roberts, with whom he has collaborated on several projects.
• Roberts is known for his intense preparation and research, often delving deep into the characters and stories he plays.
• He has been married to actress Debra Winger since 2002, with whom he has two children.