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ImagineThat ’70s Showwithout Topher Grace as Eric Foreman—the glue of the gang, the awkward yet lovable nerd we all rooted for. Now, picture an SNL comedian stepping into those vintage bell-bottoms instead. Sounds wild, right? Well, it almost happened. Before Grace landed the role, the producers considered a big-name funny guy to lead the Point Place crew.
But here’s the kicker: his style of comedy would’ve flipped the show on its head, and not in a good way. The subtle charm and relatable awkwardness that made Eric a fan favorite? Yeah, gone. Instead, the basement vibes might’ve felt more like a stand-up gig gone wrong. Let’s just say it’s a casting bullet we’re all glad they dodged.
Why Recasting Eric Foreman inThat ’70s ShowWould’ve Been a Total Flop
What if Eric Foreman looked different after his trip to Africa? That wild concept nearly came true whenThat ’70s Showshowrunnersconsidered recasting Topher Grace with Josh Meyersfor the show’s final season. Thankfully, cooler heads prevailed.
Grace, who played the dry-witted, lovable Eric, left the show after Season 7 to chase a movie career. Eric’s departure was cleverly written: he takes a teaching gig in Africa, waving goodbye to his friends—and us—at the end of Season 7.
“I actually had this idea”: Topher Grace’s Failed Pitch Would Have Had Him Return as Venom, Sony and Disney “Couldn’t figure it out”
But recasting Eric? That could’ve wrecked the whole vibe. The plan? Meyers, known for his comedy chops onSNL, would play Eric, with the show joking that his new look was the result of his time abroad. Predictably, fans would’vehatedit. Instead, Meyers joined as Randy Pearson, a brand-new character who worked at Hyde’s record store.
Randy? Not exactly a fan favorite. While he buddied up with the gang and even romanced Donna, he lacked Eric’s charm. With the cast dynamic feeling off,That ’70s Showended after Season 8.
“Probably one the worst kissers I’ve ever kissed”: DC Star Who Kissed Topher Grace in That ’70s Show Revealed How Bad USA’s First Prime Time Gay Smooch Was
Grace did return for the series finale, giving fans the closure they craved. But imagining anyone else as Eric Foreman? That’s a sitcom no-go. Meyers is funny, sure, but Eric’s boy-next-door charm was irreplaceable.
Some things are better left untouched—and forThat ’70s Show, Topher Grace was Eric.
Topher Grace Joins Netflix DramaThe Waterfrontin Intense New Role
Topher Graceis back in action, this timejoining Netflix’s dramaThe Waterfront.Created byKevin Williamson, the 8-episode series dives deep into the messy lives of the Buckley family—Harlan (Holt McCallany) and Mae (Maria Bello)—as they do whatever it takes to save their collapsing fishing empire in North Carolina.
Grace plays Grady, a sharp, no-nonsense guy eyeing a deal with the Buckleys. Also on deck are Jake Weary and Melissa Benoist as the next-gen Buckleys, Cane and Bree.
Before Topher Grace’s Eric and Ashton Kutcher’s Kelso, That ’70s Show Lost a Legendary Character after the Actor Was Arrested for Selling Bongs
With Williamson (Scream) at the helm and Marcos Siega (You) directing, this show’s got serious heat. Grace, fresh offFlight RiskandThat ’90s Show,is riding the wave—and we’re here for it.
WatchThat ’70s Showon Peacock & Apple TV.
Heena Singh
Editor | Former Senior Writer
Articles Published :1457
Heena Singh is a Editor at FandomWire, spent the last two years making waves in entertainment journalism. With a knack for digging up blockbuster celebrity scoops and an uncanny nose for the latest buzz, Heena’s articles bring a fresh and fun perspective to life. When she’s not conquering writing challenges, you’ll find her curled up in bed, peacefully sleeping.
