Eric Roberts' career was nearly derailed by a car accident that caused memory loss and coordination issues.
He initially didn't like the script for *Star 80* but took the role due to his admiration for Bob Fosse.
Roberts spent months researching the character with Fosse, which gave him a deeper understanding of the story.
*Star 80* earned Roberts a Golden Globe nomination and reignited his career, leading to numerous subsequent roles.
Why this matters:: This story highlights the impact of a single opportunity and the importance of perseverance in overcoming career obstacles. It also illustrates the collaborative process between actors and directors in bringing complex stories to life.
Eric Roberts, now 69, discussed on the *It Happened in Hollywood* podcast how he felt his career was over after a car accident left him with short-term memory loss and coordination problems. Despite initial reservations about the *Star 80* script, Roberts was drawn to the project because of Bob Fosse. He described the script as seemingly “too black and white” initially.
Roberts' portrayal of Paul Snider in *Star 80*, which tells the tragic story of Playboy model Dorothy Stratten (Mariel Hemingway), required extensive research and collaboration with Fosse. Roberts gained insight into the character's motivations and the film's deeper themes. The role earned him a Golden Globe nomination and marked a significant resurgence in his career.
Following *Star 80*, Roberts went on to star in films like *Runaway Train* (earning an Oscar nomination), *The Dark Knight*, and *Inherent Vice*, as well as TV series such as *Heroes* and *Suits*. He credits *Star 80* and Bob Fosse for giving him a second chance in Hollywood.
Q: What was Eric Roberts doing before *Star 80*?
Before *Star 80*, Eric Roberts had a promising start in Hollywood with a leading role in *King of the Gypsies*, but a car accident threatened to end his career.
Q: Why was *Star 80* important for Eric Roberts?
*Star 80* revitalized Roberts' career after a car accident, earning him a Golden Globe nomination and leading to numerous subsequent roles.
Q: What did Eric Roberts think of the script initially?
Roberts initially found the *Star 80* script unappealing, viewing it as too simplistic and cliché.
A career can experience unexpected turns, and resilience is key to overcoming obstacles.
Collaboration and mentorship can provide valuable insights and opportunities.
Even roles that seem unappealing at first can lead to significant career advancements.
Eric Roberts' story demonstrates how a single opportunity can reignite a career.
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