Prevents premature death of the host cell during virus production, which would otherwise reduce the amount of progeny virus. Acts as a host B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) homolog, and interacts with pro-apoptotic proteins to prevent mitochondria permeabilization, release of cytochrome c and subsequent apoptosis of the host cell (By similarity). Interacts with isoform 1 of host VRK2; this interaction is involved in protecting cells from apoptosis. Interacts with host PRA1; this interaction seems to modulate BHRF1 anti-apoptotic activity. Interacts with host BCL2L11 (By similarity). also observed in the perinuclear region of the cell. EA-R is part of the restricted EA-complex. Belongs to the Bcl-2 family.