5 Major Health Battles: What Disease Does Eric Roberts Have And How He Overcame Them

The question of "What disease does Eric Roberts have?" reveals a far more complex and inspiring story than a single medical diagnosis. As of December 2025, the acclaimed actor's public health history is marked by a combination of chronic conditions and life-altering injuries he has successfully managed over decades, demonstrating remarkable resilience and dedication to his craft. While he continues his prolific acting career, his journey includes managing Type 2 Diabetes, recovering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI), and openly addressing his struggles with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and past addiction. The public's curiosity about Eric Roberts’ health often stems from his long, tumultuous career and his reputation as one of Hollywood's most hardworking, yet sometimes controversial, figures. This article will break down the specific medical conditions he has faced, the life events that shaped his health, and how he maintains his incredible output of hundreds of film and television credits today.

Eric Roberts: Complete Biography and Profile

To fully understand Eric Roberts' health journey, it is essential to first appreciate the scope of his life and career. His resilience is directly linked to the challenges he has faced since his early days in the industry.

• Full Name: Eric Anthony Roberts
• Born: April 18, 1956, in Biloxi, Mississippi, USA
• Age (as of 2025): 69
• Spouse: Eliza Roberts (m. 1992)
• Children: Emma Roberts (with Kelly Cunningham)
• Siblings: Julia Roberts and Lisa Roberts Gillan
• Career Highlights: Roberts is one of the most prolific English-speaking actors in history, with over 700 film and television credits.
• Notable Nominations: Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for *Runaway Train* (1985); three Golden Globe nominations.
• Major Film Roles: *Runaway Train*, *Star 80*, *Pope of Greenwich Village*, *The Dark Knight*, *The Expendables*.
• Recent Projects (2024/2025): Despite his health history, Roberts maintains an astonishing workload, with recent and upcoming projects including *Lumina* (2024), *The Outlaws* (2024), *Protocol 7* (2024), and *Hippo* (2024).

The Primary Medical Diagnosis: Type 2 Diabetes

The most straightforward answer to the question of what disease Eric Roberts has is Type 2 Diabetes. The actor has publicly disclosed his diagnosis of this chronic condition.

Type 2 Diabetes is a condition where the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or resists insulin, a hormone needed to allow blood sugar (glucose) to enter cells for energy.

• The Unseen Story Jessica Simpsons Battle For Privacy And Body Image In A Digital Age Mlvqa

For a high-profile, constantly working actor, managing Type 2 Diabetes requires strict discipline in diet and lifestyle. Roberts' ability to maintain his relentless production schedule suggests effective management of the condition through modern medical treatment and personal health choices.

This diagnosis is a key part of his health story, as it’s a long-term condition requiring continuous attention, unlike the acute trauma of his past injuries.

The Life-Altering Trauma: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

While Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic disease, the most impactful medical event in Eric Roberts' life was a near-fatal motorcycle accident in 1981. This crash resulted in a severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

• The Facts Of Life Cast Where Are Eastlands Girls Now 2024 Updates 2tx8p

The accident was horrific. Roberts was reportedly high on cocaine at the time of the crash. He spent three days in a coma and a month recovering in the hospital. The resulting TBI forced him to undergo extensive physical and speech therapy.

He had to relearn basic functions, stating, "My speech was very retarded. I had to learn how to walk again and talk again.” The long-term effects of a TBI can be profound, impacting cognitive function, emotional regulation, and motor skills. Roberts' successful return to a demanding acting career is a testament to his recovery and the dedication of his medical team.

This event is crucial to understanding the actor, as it marked a major turning point in his life, forcing him to confront his substance abuse issues and embark on a difficult, years-long recovery process.

• 5 Shocking Facts About Anna Congdon Penn State Sweetheart To Nfl Fiances Social Media Firestorm Cc90e

The Mental Health Entity: Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)

Beyond the physical ailments, Eric Roberts has also been an advocate for mental health awareness by publicly discussing his struggles with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD).

ADD, now often referred to as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by difficulty paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors, and in some cases, excessive activity. For an actor, managing the focus required for memorizing lines, hitting marks, and sustaining performance can be a significant challenge.

His openness about ADD helps destigmatize the condition, showing that even highly successful, prolific individuals must manage these neurological differences. This is a critical component of his overall health profile, demonstrating that his battles are not solely physical.

The Other Major Health Challenges and Recovery

Eric Roberts’ health history includes other significant challenges that he has had to manage, all of which contribute to the picture of a man who has faced and overcome enormous obstacles.

Hip Replacement Surgery

In 2018, Roberts was photographed in a wheelchair at a Los Angeles airport, sparking rumors about his declining health. His representative quickly clarified that the actor was doing well but was scheduled for a hip replacement surgery due to an injured hip. Hip issues are common, especially following major trauma like his 1981 accident, or simply due to age and an active lifestyle. The surgery was successful, allowing him to quickly return to his demanding filming schedule.

Past Substance Abuse and Addiction

It is impossible to discuss Eric Roberts' health without acknowledging his past struggles with drug addiction, particularly cocaine. His 1981 accident was directly linked to his substance abuse. Addiction is recognized as a chronic, relapsing brain disease, making it a critical part of his medical history.

Roberts' recovery and subsequent decades of sobriety are a powerful testament to his commitment to a healthy life. Overcoming addiction was a necessary step that allowed him to manage his other conditions, like Type 2 Diabetes and the long-term effects of his TBI.

Conclusion: Eric Roberts’ Resilience and Current Health Status

The question "What disease does Eric Roberts have?" has a multi-faceted answer: he manages Type 2 Diabetes and Attention Deficit Disorder, and he has successfully recovered from a severe Traumatic Brain Injury and hip surgery. His health journey is a powerful narrative of resilience, recovery, and continuous management.

As of December 2025, Eric Roberts is not only alive and well, but he is also one of the most active actors in the industry. His incredible output—often juggling dozens of projects a year—serves as a clear indication that his health challenges are being effectively managed. He has transformed a history of trauma and chronic illness into a story of enduring success and professional longevity, continuing to add to his legendary portfolio of work.