The actor with his famous sister. | Source: Getty Images
He’s a Hollywood Star’s Brother and the Dad Who ‘Abandoned’ His Daughter at 7 Months – Who Is This 1980s Heartthrob
The 1980s heartthrob, who also built an illustrious career in Hollywood, has spoken out about his relationships with his famous sister and daughter in past interviews.
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For decades, his smoldering eyes and commanding screen presence made him one of Hollywood’s most magnetic leading men. Famous for his roles in iconic movies such as “Runaway Train” and “Star 80,” a certain Hollywood star rose to prominence in the late 70s and into the ’80s.
While he has enjoyed significant professional success, the actor has faced personal challenges, particularly in his complex relationships with his sister and daughter, both of whom are prominent figures in the entertainment industry.
The ’80s heartthrob in New York circa 1979. | Source: Getty Images
A Star Is Born
Born on April 18, 1956, in Biloxi, Mississippi, the star began his acting journey far from the glitz of Hollywood — honing his craft in New York City theater, where he earned critical acclaim and a Theatre World Award for his performance on Broadway in “Burn This.”
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The famous actor in a scene from “King of the Gypsies,” posted on October 11, 2025. | Source: YouTube/Vinegar Syndrome
From there, his ascent in the film industry was swift and impressive. By the late 1970s, he was already turning heads with a Golden Globe–nominated performance in “King of the Gypsies.”
The actor in “King of the Gypsies.” | Source: YouTube/Vinegar Syndrome
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Throughout the ’80s and ’90s, his cinematic presence only grew stronger. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his gripping role in “Runaway Train” (1985) and collected additional Golden Globe nods for that performance as well as for “Star 80” (1983).
His versatility shone through in a wide array of projects, from indie classics like “La Cucaracha,” which earned him Best Actor honors at the New York Independent Film Festival, to mainstream hits such as “The Specialist” (1994) and “Final Analysis” (1992).
The star in a candid photo in New York circa 1979. | Source: Getty Images
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This actor didn’t slow down in the decades that followed. He received recognition at Sundance for his roles in “It’s My Party” (1996) and “A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints” (2006), and appeared in blockbuster films like “The Dark Knight” (2008), “The Expendables” (2010), and Paul Thomas Anderson’s “Inherent Vice” (2014).
The actor posing in a black-and-white photo in 1981. | Source: Getty Images
His credits also include “Lovelace” (2013), adding to an already diverse portfolio. Beyond the silver screen, he built a formidable presence on television.
The actor photographed in New York City on October 18, 1981. | Source: Getty Images
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With recurring roles on hit shows such as “Heroes,” “Suits,” “CSI,” “Code Black,” and “Crash,” as well as guest appearances on “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Will & Grace,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” “Hawaii Five-O,” and “Entourage,” his adaptability as a performer remained evident.
The actor spotted out in New York City on June 1, 1984. | Source: Getty Images
Still actively working, he continues to take on roles in both major and independent productions. Among his more recent projects are “Head Full of Honey,” where he played a doctor opposite Matt Dillon, and “Hard Luck Love Song,” in which he portrayed a wise, grizzled doorman.
The actor at an event at Sal Anthony’s in New York City on .June 19, 1984. | Source: Getty Images
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He’s also appeared in “La Reina del Sur” as a DEA boss — a fitting role for a career that has never shied away from complexity or charisma.
The actor posing for a photo in Los Angeles, California on November 3, 1985. | Source: Getty Images
A Father’s Shattering Regret: ‘I Had Abandoned Kelly When Emma Was Just Seven Months Old’
But behind the steady rhythm of film sets and red carpets, the actor’s personal life has long carried a quieter ache — one that centers around his actress daughter.
In the past, he has spoken candidly about his regrets as a father. Reflecting on one of the most painful chapters of his life, he revealed, “I had abandoned Kelly when Emma was just seven months old.”
The actor’s daughter and her mother Kelly Cunningham at the world premiere of “Grand Champion” in Los Angeles, California on August 22, 2004. | Source: Getty Images
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The admission was stark and deeply human — a recognition of choices that would come to define the distance between him and his daughter for decades. For the actress, the separation from her father left an imprint she seldom discusses publicly.
In a 2022 interview with Tatler, the “American Horror Story” star reflected on her upbringing, which saw her parents separate when she was still a baby. Speaking about her mother with warmth, the star shared, “She’s pretty much been with me non-stop since Rhodes was born,” referring to her own son.
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When asked directly about her father and if they are close, her tone shifted. “Um… how do I say this? No, we’re not,” she admitted, her words carrying the weight of years apart, having spent her childhood with mom Kelly Cunningham, while her dad battled with drug addiction.
The actress’s father has also acknowledged the emotional cost of their estrangement. During a 2024 appearance on the podcast “Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum,” he reflected on what he considers the most difficult period of his life. “Probably the loss of relationship [sic] with my daughter,” he confessed.
The actor with his daughter and wife at the premiere of “Snow White – An Enchanting New Musical” in Anaheim, California in 2004. | Source: Getty Images
While he stopped short of delving into specifics, his tone revealed a lingering sorrow. “There’s not a pain,” he explained, “there’s a sadness for the most likely misunderstanding we’ll have forever, because we’re human.”
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Despite the emotional distance that has defined their relationship, the actor has occasionally offered glimpses into the love he still holds for his daughter.
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On the eve of her birthday in 2023, he took to Instagram to share a tender throwback photo of her younger days, standing before him, reading instructions for a toy he was trying to assemble.
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“Very happiest of birthday eves to my precious daughter,” he wrote in the caption, before reflecting on the candid moment. “As you can see, I am clueless as to how to go about the task, as I am about many tasks & other things. But the love on my face, even in profile, for her is undeniable.”
He ended the heartfelt caption with a note of pride and enduring affection, “I knew she’d grow up to be all that and more. One of the rare things I was right about. I love you, Emma. Happy Birthday February 10 [sic].”
The actor, his daughter and his wife at the “Snow White – An Enchanting New Musical” premiere. | Source: Getty Images
The Other Strained Connection: The Actor’s Complex Relationship with His Famous Sister
Just as the bond between the father and his daughter has been marked by distance and complexity, so too has his relationship with his A-lister sister. Though the siblings were once close, time, personal struggles, and fame appear to have created emotional silences between them.
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Still, the actor hasn’t shied away from expressing his love and pride for her and his other sister, Lisa Roberts Gillan. In a 2018 interview with Vanity Fair, he opened up about their sibling relationships. “I wouldn’t characterize it as a falling-out. I was crazy about my sisters. Loved them, adored them,” he divulged.
The actor and his famous sister heading to the premiere of “Steaming” in 1986. | Source: Getty Images
“We all felt very protective of each other, but the hardest person to protect yourself from is yourself […] I was exhausting to be around […] Everyone in my world needed a break sometimes, and that must have included Julia,” he continued, referring to how his longtime drug use alienated him from the actress.
Still, the siblings managed to turn a corner when the star’s sister welcomed her twins with her husband in 2004. The actor and his wife, Eliza Roberts, went to the hospital to drop off gifts.
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“Instead I was ushered into their room and was immediately awash in brotherly and uncle-ly love [sic],” he noted. Since then, the pair have enjoyed family holidays like Thanksgiving together and have become, as he put it, “e-mail buddies.”
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However, his tone shifted slightly once asked about his daughter, as he credited himself for helping launch both hers and his sister’s careers. “If it wasn’t for me, there would be no Julia Roberts and no Emma Roberts as celebrities, as actresses, and I’m very proud of that,” he declared.
The actor’s famous sister and his daughter at the Los Angeles premiere of “Valentine’s Day” in Hollywood, California on February 8, 2010. | Source: Getty Images
He went on to recall introducing her to the influential talent agency William Morris, long before “Mystic Pizza” would make her a household name. “And I am so proud that everybody knows I was first, because I was first by a long shot,” the actor added.
And yet, for all the pride he carries, he is now careful — if not cautious — when speaking about his famous sister and daughter. During a 2024 appearance on “Still Here Hollywood with Steve Kmetko,” he spoke with a mix of affection and restraint.
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The actor and his sister with Jon Voigt at the premiere of “Runaway Train” and “Fool For Love” in 1985. | Source: Getty Images
“I love my sister, but I can’t talk about her. She don’t want to talk about it. Also, my daughter told me also not to talk about her, but I stumble and do [sic],” he disclosed.
Still, even with that boundary, his admiration remains clear. “I am in love with my daughter’s work these days, like I can’t believe how great she’s become. I’m so proud of her, I can’t see straight,” he admitted, his voice tinged with sincerity and awe.
The actor’s daughter and his sister at the premiere of “Jesus Henry Christ” in Los Angeles, California on April 18, 2012. | Source: Getty Images
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‘It’s So Much Fun!’: A Father Swoons, Even from Afar
The acclaimed actor is none other than Eric Roberts — a man whose name, like his career, has never been far from the spotlight. Even with the distance between him and Emma Roberts, Eric continues to beam with admiration when speaking about his daughter’s rise in the industry. “It’s so much fun! It’s so much fun for me,” he said, expressing how he feels watching his daughter succeed.
“She’s never had any training […] and it’s been lovely for me to watch her become an actor […] I love her work,” Eric added. When asked if he’d ever want to share the screen with her, he didn’t hesitate, expressing, “Are you kidding, [sic] I would love that. I’d also love my sister to play my sister.”
Emma Roberts at the premiere of “Palo Alto” in Los Angeles, California on May 5, 2014. | Source: Getty Images
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A Remorseful Eric Roberts Apologizes to His Family
While Eric once spoke with unfiltered pride about helping launch the careers of his sister Julia Roberts and daughter, time — and reflection — have brought a softer, more remorseful perspective.
In his memoir, “Runaway Train: Or, The Story of My Life So Far,” the actor took responsibility for that past comment, writing, “I hope Julia will accept this public apology. It was an asinine thing to have said.”
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He also acknowledged the darker periods of his life, when his struggles with addiction damaged the very relationships he cherished most. “I wouldn’t be surprised if they suffered from PTSD from when it was dangerous to be around me,” he admitted.
The consequences of those years, he confessed, extended beyond his siblings. “Of course, the biggest consequence of my drug use was losing Emma,” Eric wrote of the custody battle that separated him from his daughter.
Eric Roberts spotted out in Los Angeles, California on April 17, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
According to him, his relationship with Julia further unraveled when she supported Emma’s mother, Kelly, during that time — a decision he now concedes was the right one.
With a tone of reconciliation, Eric reflected, “I imagine I will remain as Julia’s brother and Emma Roberts’ dad for the rest of my life. I’d like to make good on that, to move aside proudly and with grace. That’s part of the reason for writing the book.”
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One Love That Never Faltered
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Through all the turbulence in his personal life, one relationship has stood strong for Eric — his marriage to Eliza. Their story began unexpectedly on an MGM Grand flight to Los Angeles. Eliza, a casting director, had changed her reservation at the last minute. Eric, fresh off a shoot in Rome, boarded the same plane — with his cat, Tender, on his lap.
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Seated side by side, the two struck up a conversation that quickly turned into a connection. “It was a chick magnet,” Eric later joked about the cat. They had almost worked together before, but this chance encounter sealed their fate.
Later that evening, Eric called Eliza. Her babysitter, recognizing the voice, told her, “You’re taking this call or I’m going to die.” That babysitter? A then-unknown Jeffrey Dean Morgan.
Eliza and Eric Roberts at the Los Angeles premiere of “A Complete Unknown” in Hollywood, California on December 10, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Their chance meeting on a plane blossomed into a marriage that has become a cornerstone of Eric’s life. Over the years, he’s credited Eliza not just as a partner, but as a guiding force through his most difficult chapters.
“I got a wife who comes from royalty — Hollywood royalty,” he boasted during a 2020 appearance on “The Ed Mylett Show,” referring to Eliza’s Emmy-winning lineage and deep understanding of the industry. “She gets every single bit of it.”
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But beyond their shared career paths, it was Eliza’s unwavering support that helped Eric face himself. “My wife sending me to therapy saved my life,” he admitted, revealing how that journey led him to confront the behavior and pain that once defined him — and ultimately, to rebuild.
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‘Addicts Aren’t Bad Guys’: Eric Roberts Owns His Story, Scars and All
In recent years, Eric has spoken with increasing openness about the demons he’s battled and survived. During a 2024 interview on “Today,” he reflected on his long fight with addiction, describing it as both a personal and universal struggle.
Eric and Eliza Roberts at the final season premiere of “The Righteous Gemstones” in Los Angeles, California on March 5, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
“The only way to be a good example is to get through being a casualty,” he shared. “And it’s a bit of a trick, because we drug addicts are casualties, and we have to fight it every day.”
His journey, he admitted, cost him deeply — especially when it came to family. “For many years, I was a practicing drug addict. So, a lot of people were alienated, especially the family, and the family, I owe them a lot because I love them. I owe them a lot because they love me,” the actor stated.
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Eric Roberts at the Chiller Theatre Expo in Parsippany, New Jersey on April 27, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
Eric Roberts no longer tries to rewrite the past; instead, he owns it with clarity and compassion. “Addicts aren’t bad guys,” he noted. “They’re just making a mistake.”
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The information in this article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, and images contained on news.AmoMama.com, or available through news.AmoMama.com is for general information purposes only. news.AmoMama.com does not take responsibility for any action taken as a result of reading this article. Before undertaking any course of treatment please consult with your healthcare provider.
Julia Roberts and Niece Emma Roberts Turn Heads at Celebration Dinner in First Joint Appearance in 13 Years
Sep 11, 2025
09:52 A.M.
It wasn’t the champagne or couture that set the evening apart; it was the sight of two generations of Roberts women, side by side, reminding Hollywood what family legacy looks like when it shines under the same spotlight.
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For more than a decade, the world had been waiting — until now. In a rare, glittering reunion that stunned Hollywood and set social media ablaze, Julia Roberts and her niece Emma Roberts stepped out side by side in New York City, dazzling the crowd at a star-studded Veuve Clicquot dinner.
A fan comment dated September 10, 2025 | Source: Instagram/britishvogue
A Glamorous Night in Central Park
The pair appeared at the unveiling of the Veuve Clicquot x Simon Porte Jacquemus La Grande Dame 2018 collaboration, hosted inside the iconic Boathouse in Central Park.
In the now-viral photo, Julia radiated timeless sophistication, pairing an oversized black suit with a crisp white shirt, while Emma stunned in a sheer black gown with delicate straps. Together, they embodied Hollywood elegance at its very finest.
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Julia Roberts and her niece, Emma photograph together at the Veuve Clicquot dinner, from a post dated September 10, 2025 | Source: Instagram/emmaroberts
On Instagram, Emma captured the spirit of the evening, “Such a special evening celebrating the newly unveiled @veuveclicquot and @simon_porte_jacquemus collaboration of La Grande Dame 🍾 #ad21+ 🥂 @jacquemus 🤍.”
Emma Roberts stuns at the Veuve Clicquot dinner, from a post dated September 10, 2025 | Source: Instagram/emmaroberts
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Fashion insiders, celebrities, and power players from every corner of the industry were in attendance, but it was the Roberts women who turned every head. Veuve Clicquot itself also commemorated the moment, calling it “A moment of joy, style and shared optimism!”
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Fans Lose Their Minds over the Resemblance
If the champagne wasn’t sparkling enough, the internet certainly was. Fans across platforms couldn’t get over the striking similarities between the women. One person on Reddit wrote: “Good for them and their matching hair.” Another added, “This is the first time I can see the family resemblance. Both should keep the red hair.”
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Others noted subtle changes in Julia’s appearance. “Why does Julia Roberts look so different? Her smile is almost creepy,” a netizen commented. On Instagram, admiration poured in, with one commenter writing, “The resemblance is unreal, not just the color!” Another gushed, “Total beauties! Class act.”
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Praise, Criticism, and Endless Comparisons
The flood of Facebook comments continued the emotional rollercoaster as reactions mirrored the mix of awe and affection. One person posted, “Smiles (show the sun is up-and happiness level-up)Thanks Ladies [sic].”
Another pointed out the likeness between them with a simple remark, “Same mouth.” Compliments continued across platforms. “Both are beautiful,” one admirer shared, while others praised their enduring star power and style.
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For many fans, the moment wasn’t just about glamor — it was about history. The New York dinner was the first time that Julia and Emma had appeared together in public since April 2012, when they walked the red carpet for “Jesus Henry Christ” in Los Angeles.
Emma Roberts and her aunt Julia attend the Los Angeles premiere of “Jesus Henry Christ” at Mann Chinese 6 in California on April 18, 2012 | Source: Getty Images
Emma’s Emotional Words About Julia
Over the years, Emma has never hidden the weight of her aunt’s influence. In a 2024 Variety interview, she revealed that the industry still begs them to work together:
“They still do. I would love to find the perfect project for me and my aunt, and I know that there will be something. But it’s never been the right thing. She’s the best, and I want to do something with her.”
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Emma and Julia Roberts are with Lisa Gillan at the premiere of “Jesus Henry Christ” at Mann Chinese 6 in Los Angeles, California on April 18, 2012 | Source: Getty Images
On Bruce Boggi’s podcast, Emma went into more detail, sharing her personal views on fame and what it has always meant to her. She explained:
“I always say, like I think I saw very up close what that really looks like with my aunt Julia. It’s obviously fun, it’s great, but there is a part of it that’s really scary, and so I’ve always wanted to carve my own path of not just like straight ahead, ‘Oh be a big movie star,’ but like do stuff that are [sic] creatively fulfilling, cause to me fame has never been the goal.”
Julia Roberts and Kathryn Newton attend the “Ben Is Back” premiere during 2018 Toronto International Film Festival at Princess of Wales Theatre in Canada on September 8 | Source: Getty Images
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The glittering evening in New York was more than just another fashion dinner — it was a rare moment of Hollywood royalty reunited. After more than ten years apart from public appearances together, Julia and Emma proved that their family legacy is alive, dazzling, and impossible to ignore.
The night left fans enthralled, critics divided, and the internet buzzing with comparisons and compliments. But one thing is sure: the Roberts women have once again reminded the world why they remain at the pinnacle of style, sophistication, and star power.
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Hollywood A-Lister Spotted on the New York City Subway
Oct 22, 2025
09:26 A.M.
Riding the subway is rare enough for a celebrity of his caliber, but doing it incognito? That’s another level.
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This Oscar-winning actor surprised New Yorkers when he rode the subway alongside fellow train commuters in Manhattan on Tuesday, October 21. Fans were both stunned and amused to see the “Forrest Gump” star choosing public transportation, something rarely done by celebrities.
Scott Shepherd, F. Murray Abraham, Hope Davis, Bryan Cranston, Mia Threapleton, Wes Anderson, Benicio del Toro, Stephen Park, Michael Cera, Tom Hanks and Scarlett Johansson attend Focus Features’ “The Phoenician Scheme” premiere at Jazz at Lincoln Center on May 28, 2025 in New York City | Source: Getty Images
Masked Mystery on the Train
Tom Hanks, 69, was spotted taking the 6 line through the city. Dressed casually in a green jacket, a matching knitted beanie, black jeans, and boots, Hanks blended in with other commuters.
However, what truly caught people’s attention was the white protective mask covering most of his face, sparking plenty of chatter online.
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Commuters Stunned by the Unexpected Encounter
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One curious user simply asked, “Tom Hanks?” while another wasn’t so sure, wondering, “That Hanks or the Whiplash dude?” A few weren’t convinced at all, confidently saying, “That ain’t him.”
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Others were more focused on his choice of attire. One person asked, “Whats [sic] up with the mask,” and another questioned, “Why is he wearing a mask?” One amused commenter joked, “Is it 2020 all over again?” But amid the confusion, one fan defended the actor’s choice, “He’s wearing a mask to be left alone. Let him be. Who cares?”
Tom Hanks attends the Tribeca Festival opening night premiere of “Billy Joel: And So It Goes” at The Beacon Theatre on June 4, 2025 in New York City | Source: Getty Images
While not everyone recognized him immediately, Tom Hanks’ understated subway appearance reminded many that even Hollywood legends sometimes just want a quiet, ordinary day — away from the spotlight.
Tom Hanks as Doug during the “Black Jeopardy” sketch on February 16, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
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The sighting comes months after Hanks appeared in an “SNL” skit alongside fellow industry heavy hitters, where his body movement caught fans’ attention. While a sketch shared on the show was certainly entertaining, netizens couldn’t help but notice something worrying about Hanks’ hands.
User comment about Tom Hanks, posted on December 23, 2024 | Source: X/@gayhartdebbie1
In the festive sketch celebrating Martin Short’s induction into “Saturday Night Live’s Five-Timers Club,” Hanks took center stage among a lineup of Hollywood’s most celebrated stars.
The premise revolved around an extravagant annual Christmas party, hosted in an opulent setting that evoked warmth and tradition. A decked-out Christmas tree sparkled in the background, flanked by bookshelves adorned with holiday garlands and red stockings.
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Tom Hanks performing in the “SNL” skit about Martin Short’s induction into a club, posted on December 22, 2024 | Source: YouTube/Saturday Night Live
Dressed in a navy blue robe with the club’s insignia, Hanks shared the stage with fellow A-listers, including Paul Rudd, Tina Fey, Melissa McCarthy, and other entertainment powerhouses.
Tom Hanks, Paul Rudd, Martin Short, and Tina Fey. | Source: YouTube/Saturday Night Live
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The skit was brimming with light-hearted humor, witty repartee, and self-referential jabs, and the audience frequently erupted into cheers, delighted by the star-studded interactions and comedic timing. From Short’s animated gestures to Fey’s sharp quips, every moment of the skit oozed charm and camaraderie.
Martin Short and Tina Fey. | Source: YouTube/Saturday Night Live
However, eagle-eyed viewers couldn’t help but notice subtle physical signs regarding Hanks. While sitting with his hands placed in his lap, Hanks’ hands appeared to shake slightly.
A similar tremor was visible as he held two drinks, before passing one of them to Short. Although fleeting, these instances sparked a wave of online discourse.
Tom Hanks passing Martin Short a drink. | Source: Saturday Night Live
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“Does Tom Hanks have a hand tremor? Watch his left hand,” remarked a netizen. Another expressed sorrow, “So sad to see Tom Hanks hand tremmors 😭 he’s such a gem, hope we can have him forever [sic] ❤️.”
Responding to this sentiment, someone else said, “I agree! I need to take a closer look at this. Perhaps it was from Caffeine. Let’s hope so.”
Tom Hanks | Source: YouTube/Saturday Night Live
Others shared their hopes that Hanks’ health is in good condition, with one user simply stating, “So sad hope he’s ok.”
More emotional reactions followed, with yet another observer asserting, “Tom Hanks is looking so old did anyone else clock his hands shaking I’ll cry rn.”
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Tom Hanks | Source: YouTube/Saturday Night Live
One user compared Hanks to a political public figure, noting, “Tom Hanks was just on ‘SNL’ and he looked ROUGH and I noticed his hands now have the same shake that Bill Clinton has acquired.” “Did anyone notice Tom Hanks’s hands shaking unnaturally in this sketch?” queried another spectator.
Before his widely discussed appearance on “SNL,” Hanks reflected on his physicality and aging in a candid interview with Entertainment Tonight at the beginning of November.
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When asked if he ever wished he could return to a younger version of himself, the actor gave a firm yet humorous response, “No. Look, I’m 68 years old. The hardest for us was when we were playing 35. That time where your metabolism stops, gravity starts tearing you down, your bones start wearing off, you stand differently.”
Tom Hanks speaking about aging and the differences he has experienced, posted on November 2, 2024 | Source: Instagram/entertainmenttonight
Hanks, however, revealed that he feels he’s in better condition now than he was during his younger years, “I think I’m in better shape now. You know why? Because my kids are grown up, I’m getting decent exercise, and I can eat right. You can’t do that when you’re 35! Life is such a burden.”
Tom Hanks | Source: Instagram/entertainmenttonight
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The actor also explained his current approach to maintaining his health with a mix of realism and light-heartedness. “68 years old, type 2 diabetes, just maintaining the temple, baby. That’s all I’m trying to do. That’s it,” he concluded with a smile.
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The concern over Hanks’ trembling hands during his “SNL” appearance isn’t the first time he has worried the public with the same issue.
Reportedly, in 2022, during a promotional event for his film “Elvis” — in which he stars alongside Austin Butler (who plays the iconic Elvis Presley) — Hanks’ shaking hands also drew attention.
Austin Butler and Tom Hanks at the UK screening of “Elvis” in London, England on May 31, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
While speaking into a microphone at the event, his hands began shaking. Attempting to steady himself, the actor shifted his grip by placing his left hand below his right on the microphone. At another point, he even switched hands briefly in what seemed to be an effort to maintain control.
Tom Hanks speaking during the SiriusXM Town Hall event with the cast of “Elvis” in Memphis, Tennessee on June 13, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
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Although Hanks has yet to address the hand tremors that fans have observed, the actor has previously been open about his health challenges.
In 2020, Hanks and his wife, actress Rita Wilson, announced they had contracted COVID-19. At the time, Hanks shared the details of their illness with characteristic candor and humor.
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Speaking about their experience, Hanks explained that their symptoms differed and the discomfort they endured lasted about two weeks.
“My wife lost her sense of taste and smell, she had severe nausea, she had a much higher fever than I did. I just had crippling body aches, I was very fatigued all the time and I couldn’t concentrate on anything for more than about 12 minutes. That last bit is kinda like my natural state anyway,” he added, chuckling.
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Despite his lighthearted tone, Hanks also addressed the seriousness of his health at the time, acknowledging his pre-existing conditions. “When we were in the hospital, I said: ‘I’m 63, I have type 2 diabetes, I had a stent in my heart – am I a red flag case?'” he recalled.
However, he noted that doctors reassured him as long as his temperature didn’t spike and his lungs stayed clear of pneumonia, there wasn’t a major cause for alarm.
“I’m not one who wakes up in the morning wondering if I’m going to see the end of the day or not. I’m pretty calm about that,” Hanks said of the situation overall.
While the hand tremors remain unaddressed, Hanks’ openness about his past health struggles serves as a reminder of his resilience and ability to confront challenges head-on.
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The information in this article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, and images contained on news.AmoMama.com, or available through news.AmoMama.com is for general information purposes only. news.AmoMama.com does not take responsibility for any action taken as a result of reading this article. Before undertaking any course of treatment please consult with your healthcare provider.
Eric Dane, 52, Shares New Video Following His Absence From the 2025 Emmys
Sep 16, 2025
10:51 A.M.
Hollywood heartthrob Eric Dane stuns fans with his appearance in a video about ALS, as viewers express their heartbreak over his “slurred” speech and “twitching” muscles.
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On September 15, 2025, Hollywood star Eric Dane appeared in an Instagram video, speaking about his partnership with the I Am ALS organization.
His appearance, which sparked a flurry of comments from concerned online viewers, comes after his absence from this year’s Emmys and months after he spoke out about his Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis in a “Good Morning America” (“GMA”) interview in June.
Netizen comment about Eric Dane, posted on September 15, 2025. | Source: Instagram/iamalsorg and realericdane
Eric Dane’s Push for ALS Research and Fast-Tracked Results
In the video, Dane delivers his message with quiet resolve, sitting calmly in front of a softly lit backdrop. Wearing a navy blue “I Am ALS” T-shirt, he introduces himself simply — “I’m Eric. An actor, a father, and now a person living with ALS.” From the outset, his words carry a sense of urgency and defiance.
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Eric Dane speaking about ALS in collaboration with the I Am ALS organization, posted on September 15, 2025. | Source: Instagram/iamalsorg and realericdane
“For over a century, ALS has been incurable, and we’re done accepting the status quo,” asserts the actor. He speaks passionately about “Push for Progress,” which is a bold initiative by I Am ALS to raise one billion dollars in just three years — a goal aimed at accelerating research, expanding treatment access, and renewing the landmark law for the disease.
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With conviction, he calls on viewers to act, “We have to do it now.” The campaign, described by the organization as a “groundbreaking” movement, comes at a pivotal moment, with life-saving treatments reportedly within reach.
Dane’s appeal is more than advocacy — it’s a personal mission, a call to action, and a powerful reminder of what’s at stake.
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Following the video’s release, social media was flooded with emotional reactions from viewers who were quick to express concern. Many took to the comment section to reflect on the physical and vocal changes they noticed in Dane.
Eric Dane relaying the importance of the work his partnership with I Am ALS entails. | Source: Instagram/iamalsorg and realericdane
‘His Voice Is Going’: Fans Left Shattered by Eric Dane’s ALS Progression
“I don’t know a lot about ALS, admittedly, can someone tell me if the difference in Eric’s speech is a part of the diagnosis? It sounds slurred, as if he’s struggling with speaking. It’s absolutely heartbreaking to see how fast he has changed for the worst [sic],” one spectator wrote.
Echoing that sentiment, another observed, “I can hear his voice. He’s already having trouble speaking.” “his [sic] speech😭,” added someone else. “I think @realericdane is losing his voice a little bit I can here it 😢 [sic],” one commenter shared. Others focused on visible signs of physical strain.
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Eric Dane speaking in the video that sparked concern among netizens. | Source: Instagram/iamalsorg and realericdane
One person noted, “You can see his muscles twitching on his arms. And his voice is going,” while another reiterated, “you can he his arm twitching [sic].” Meanwhile, a more succinct reaction captured the general feeling of many — “This is hard to see.”
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The Emmy Awards Absence That Stood Out
Dane’s heartfelt video came after his sudden and unexplained withdrawal from the 2025 Emmy Awards, where he was slated to appear alongside fellow “Grey’s Anatomy” alum Jesse Williams.
Their joint appearance was meant to mark the iconic medical drama’s 20th anniversary with a tribute, and they were set to present the award for Directing for a Drama Series. But when Dane pulled out, the tribute was scrapped entirely.
Eric Dane and Jesse Williams as their characters from an episode of “Grey’s Anatomy” in 2012. | Source: Getty Images
“There wasn’t a set or anything, though,” executive TV producer Jeannae Rouzan-Clay later clarified. “It was just a celebration with the two of them.”
While no further details were shared about the reason behind Dane’s absence, producer Jesse Collins confirmed that Williams was ultimately able to present the award on his own.
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Jesse Williams presenting at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, California on September 14, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
Eric Dane Discloses His Diagnosis to the World
Dane’s absence from the Emmys comes months after he revealed he has ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, in April 2025. At the time, he expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of his family, sharing that his wife, actress Rebecca Gayheart, and their teenage daughters had been by his side as they faced this life-altering reality together.
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Despite the challenges ahead, Dane remained committed to his craft, stating, “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set [sic] of ‘Euphoria’ next week.” He also made a heartfelt request for privacy, as he and his loved ones began adjusting to their new normal.
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Eric Dane Opens up to Diane Sawyer
Over a month after sharing his diagnosis with the public, Dane sat down with ABC News’ Diane Sawyer for a vulnerable and emotional interview — his first time opening up in such detail about the private battle he’s been fighting.
The segment began with a nostalgic look back at Dane’s career, revisiting his early days on “Grey’s Anatomy,” where his piercing blue eyes and confident swagger earned him the nickname McSteamy.
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Now 52, the man once idolized as a TV heartthrob appeared visibly changed but no less compelling, ready to speak out so others living with ALS wouldn’t feel alone.
Recounting the earliest signs — a subtle weakness in his right hand that he initially dismissed as fatigue — Dane described a long, winding journey through specialist after specialist before finally hearing the words that would alter his life: ALS. With no roadmap and only a daily inventory of what continues to be lost, Dane had to forge on.
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“My right side is completely stopped working […] I feel like maybe a […] few more months, and I won’t have my left hand either. Sobering [sic],” divulged the star. Though he can still walk, he also confessed to harboring fear about the future of his mobility.
More than anything, Dane shared his heartbreak over how the disease has impacted his role as the patriarch of his family.
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A Daughter’s Heroic Act in the Ocean That Left Her Father Heartbroken
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Dane became particularly emotional recounting a moment when he jumped into the ocean during a recent boat trip, only to realize he could no longer swim. It was his youngest daughter who rushed to save him, dragging him back to the boat.
“I was just heartbroken,” he said, adding that afterward, he made sure she got back in the water to keep enjoying the day — even as he quietly broke down.
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He also spoke lovingly of his wife, Gayheart, whom he credited as his biggest champion and supporter. Dane noted that their bond has grown stronger through this ordeal, disclosing, “We have managed to become better friends and better parents.”
As Sawyer passed him an old photo of himself from his early days in Hollywood, Dane reflected on the young man he once was — full of bravado and ambition, but also quietly wounded from losing his father to suicide when he was just seven years old.
Eric Dane and Rebecca Gayheart at the 16th annual Chrysalis Butterfly Ball in Brentwood, California on June 3, 2017. | Source: Getty Images
That grief still lingers, especially now. When asked about how angry ALS makes him, Dane responded, “Very. I’m angry because, you know, my father was taken from me when I was young. And now, you know, there’s a very good chance I’m going to be taken from my girls while they’re very young.” “All I want to do is spend time with my family and work a little bit if I can.”
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Eric Dane with his teenage daughters, Georgia and Billie Dane, at the premiere of “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” in Hollywood, California on May 30, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
‘I Don’t Think This Is the End of My Story’: Eric Dane Fights Back
Despite the pain and prognosis, Dane is far from giving up. Toward the end of the interview, he offered a powerful declaration of hope, noting, “I don’t think this is the end of my story […] I don’t feel like this is the end of me. I’m fighting as much as I can.” He made it clear that while ALS may be changing his life, it will not define it — and certainly won’t silence it.
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That same unwavering spirit Dane brings to his personal life is evident in his professional one, too. Despite the physical toll of ALS, he has made it clear that stepping away from acting is not on the table. “I’m going to ride this till the wheels fall off,” he told E! News in an interview alongside his “Countdown” co-star Jensen Ackles.
The new Amazon MGM Studios thriller, which reunites Dane with a high-stakes action format, has become more than just another role — it’s a lifeline.
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“It keeps me sharp,” he said. “It keeps me moving forward, which is super important right now.” For Dane, being on set isn’t just about work — it’s about purpose.
“I feel great when I’m at work,” he shared. “Of course, there have been some sort of [sic] setbacks, but I feel pretty good. My spirit is always pretty buoyant, so at the end of the day, that’s all that matters.”
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A Fighter, a Father, an Advocate, and a Star: Eric Dane’s Next Chapter
This sentiment captures the heart of who Eric Dane is today — a father, a husband, a fighter, and an actor determined to keep living fully, both on and off the screen. The man once known as one of TV’s ultimate heartthrobs has become something even more powerful: a symbol of resilience.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “help” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or go tosuicidepreventionlifeline.org.
