Digest

This podcast episode features an interview with actor Eric Roberts, known for his intense performances in films like "Star 80," "Pope of Greenwich Village," and "Runaway Train." The host begins by discussing Roberts's unique upbringing in Atlanta, Georgia, where his parents ran an integrated acting school called the Actors and Writers Workshop. Roberts shares his early experiences on stage and his time touring with the school, performing in black neighborhoods. He then recounts how he landed the role in "King of the Gypsies," his first encounter with Sterling Hayden, and his early experiences with drugs, including his first try with cocaine at the wrap party of his first play for Joe Papp. Roberts discusses the impact of cocaine on his life and his journey to sobriety, emphasizing the importance of acting as a precious and personal art form. He also reflects on the therapeutic nature of acting, acknowledging how it allows him to explore and process his past experiences. The episode concludes with Roberts discussing his recent role in "The Gemstones" and his perspective on the difference between being a star and being an actor.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction and Sponsor Announcement, Eric Roberts: A Singular Actor, A Bittersweet Farewell and a COVID Diagnosis

The episode begins with a sponsor announcement for Squarespace, highlighting its website building capabilities and offering a free trial and discount code. The host then introduces Eric Roberts, a singular actor known for his intense performances in films like "Star 80," "Pope of Greenwich Village," and "Runaway Train." The host discusses Roberts's prolific career and his unique charisma. The host shares his experience wrapping up a film shoot in Vancouver and the emotional bittersweetness of saying goodbye to the cast and crew. He then reveals that he tested positive for COVID-19, leading to the cancellation of his upcoming comedy shows and interviews.

00:13:07

Eric Roberts's Memoir: "Runaway Train"

The host transitions into his interview with Eric Roberts, discussing his new memoir "Runaway Train: The Story of My Life So Far." The host expresses his admiration for Roberts's honesty and vulnerability in the book, particularly his reflections on his parents' influence.

00:18:11

Growing Up in a Unique Environment, Performing in Black Neighborhoods

Roberts shares his unique upbringing in Atlanta, Georgia, where his parents ran an acting school called the Actors and Writers Workshop. He describes the integrated nature of the school and his early experiences on stage, including a memorable misdirection at the age of four. Roberts details the touring aspect of his parents' acting school, where they would take their students to perform in black neighborhoods. He recounts a time when he was mobbed by the audience after a performance of "Bluebeard."

00:38:40

Landing the Role in "King of the Gypsies", The Start of Cocaine Use

Roberts describes how he landed the role in "King of the Gypsies," sharing his experience with the script, meeting the screenwriter, and undergoing a screen test during a snowstorm in New York. He also recounts his first encounter with Sterling Hayden, a memorable experience that led to a friendship and grocery shopping adventures. Roberts discusses his early experiences with drugs, revealing that he first tried cocaine at the wrap party of his first play for Joe Papp. He shares anecdotes about his time with Doug Kenney, the writer of "Animal House," and how his wife, Eliza, became famous for her role in the play.

00:46:42

Cocaine's Impact on Roberts's Life, Acting as a Precious and Personal Art

Roberts talks about the period when cocaine became a major component of his life, coinciding with his press tour for "King of the Gypsies" in 1978. He reflects on the societal acceptance of cocaine at the time and his own journey to sobriety. Roberts compares acting to marriage, emphasizing its precious and personal nature. He explains that he never used cocaine while working because it interfered with his ability to act, particularly his speech.

00:50:32

The Impact of Fear on Acting, From "Star 80" to "Popeye"

Eric Roberts discusses how fear played a crucial role in his portrayal of Paul Snyder in "Star 80." He explains how he observed director Fasi's mannerisms and incorporated them into his performance, ultimately giving the character depth. Roberts talks about his transition from "Star 80" to "Popeye," highlighting the conscious choice he made to play a different character. He describes his approach to the role, including weight loss and a change in his appearance, and the challenges he faced with the director.

01:02:41

The Importance of Collaboration in Acting, The Difference Between Being a Star and an Actor

Roberts emphasizes the importance of collaboration in acting, citing his experiences with Christopher Walken and Danny Trejo. He describes the unique dynamic he shared with these actors and how their collaborations enriched his performances. Roberts distinguishes between being a star and being an actor, acknowledging the enjoyment of stardom while emphasizing his passion for acting. He shares his perspective on the different roles he has played and the importance of authenticity in his craft.

01:07:41

Landing the Role in "The Gemstones", The Therapeutic Nature of Acting

Roberts recounts how he landed the role in "The Gemstones," highlighting his preparation and the audition process. He describes the collaborative nature of the casting process and the positive experience he had working with the show's creators. Roberts reflects on the therapeutic nature of acting, acknowledging how it allows him to explore and process his past experiences. He expresses gratitude for the opportunities he has had to delve into his personal history through his roles.

01:12:23

Meeting Little Richard

Roberts shares his experience meeting Little Richard, one of his early idols. He describes the impact of the encounter and how it shaped his early career.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are some of Eric Roberts's most memorable film roles?

  Eric Roberts is known for his intense performances in films like "Star 80," "Pope of Greenwich Village," and "Runaway Train." These roles showcase his unique charisma and ability to portray complex characters.

• How did Eric Roberts's upbringing influence his acting career?

  Roberts's parents ran an integrated acting school in Atlanta, where he began performing at a young age. This unique environment fostered his love for acting and provided him with valuable experience.

• What is Eric Roberts's new memoir about?

  Roberts's memoir, "Runaway Train: The Story of My Life So Far," is a candid and honest account of his life, including his childhood, his acting career, and his struggles with addiction.

• How did Eric Roberts land the role in "King of the Gypsies"?

  Roberts was given the script for "King of the Gypsies" by his manager and impressed the screenwriter with his audition. He then had to undergo a screen test during a snowstorm in New York, which ultimately led to him being cast in the film.

• What is Eric Roberts's perspective on acting as an art form?

  Roberts views acting as a precious and personal art form, comparing it to marriage. He believes that acting is a deeply intimate experience between the actor and the role, and that it requires a high level of dedication and commitment.

• How did fear influence your performance in "Star 80"?

  Fear was a driving force behind my portrayal of Paul Snyder. I observed director Fasi's mannerisms and incorporated them into my performance, which ultimately gave the character depth and complexity.

• What was the most challenging aspect of transitioning from "Star 80" to "Popeye"?

  The biggest challenge was convincing the director of my vision for the character. I wanted to play a different kind of thug, one who was more vulnerable and childlike, which required a significant physical and emotional transformation.

• How has collaboration with other actors impacted your career?

  Collaboration has been crucial to my career. Working with actors like Christopher Walken and Danny Trejo has enriched my performances and taught me valuable lessons about the craft.

• What is the difference between being a star and being an actor?

  While stardom can be enjoyable, being an actor is about the craft, the dedication to the art of storytelling, and the ability to embody different characters authentically.

• How did you land the role in "The Gemstones"?

  I prepared a scene, incorporating props and costumes, and sent it in as an audition. The casting process was collaborative, and I was fortunate to be chosen by Danny McBride.

• How has acting helped you process your past experiences?

  Acting has been a therapeutic process for me, allowing me to explore and confront my past experiences. It has given me a deeper understanding of myself and the ability to connect with my characters on a personal level.

Show Notes