Eric Roberts
The Lake Arrowhead Film Festival’s Distinguished Artist Award

If it seems like you’re seeing Eric Roberts’ face everywhere these days, perhaps that’s because you are.  He was recently added to the cast of NBC’s hit television series, Heroes, and he can also be seen on Showtime’s Original Series, The L Word.    Somehow he’s also found time to appear in a few feature films and some of the most popular music videos of the past year -- including those by Mariah Carey, Akon and The Killers.

Of course, music videos were brand new when Roberts began making a name for himself with memorable performances in the early 80’s.  His distinguished career has included Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for Runaway Train as well as Golden Globe nominations for King of the Gypsies and Star 80.  Other notable performances include Final Analysis, Raggedy Man, Hollywood Dreams (which will screen here at the LAFF on Saturday night) and the film he’ll introduce on Sunday morning, The Pope of Greenwich Village

That film in particular has kept sequel rumors circling for years. “Not a day goes by where Mickey (Rourke) and I don’t get comments from strangers letting us know they just want more,” said Roberts.  “They want to know what became of Charlie and Paulie.”

So what’s next for Eric Roberts?  He just finished shooting a film he really enjoyed called, The Butcher, and he adds, “I just got cast in Batman.”

Eric is particularly proud of his family.  His stepdaughter, Morgan Simons, is a personal chef, and you can see his stepson, Keaton Simons, right here at the LAFF – in a pivotal role in the poignant final scene of Hollywood Dreams.  

Mr. Roberts’ award will be presented by his lovely wife, actress Eliza Garrett Roberts, at Friday night’s Gala Awards Dinner.  Eric will also participate in the Filmmakers Awards Luncheon on Sunday afternoon at 1:30 pm .  “I’ve been involved in events with new filmmakers before and passing the torch and watching that new passion has become one of the greatest aspects of my career.”