During World War II, Roberts served with General Patton's Third Army in France, Germany and Austria.
After his military service, Roberts went to Los Angeles on vacation, but stayed there to help organize the Circle Theatre.
He performed with this group under the name Larry Salters, appearing in 1947 in the company's debut production of Ethan Frome as Jotham Powell.
In 1949, Roberts went on to create and become part owner of the Players Ring, another prominent Hollywood theater group of the day.
His singing voice was captured on several recordings he made during the fifties with Neely Plumb and his Orchestra on the "Ace-Hi Hits" label.