Imagine That ’70s Show without 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 in That ’70s Show Would’ve Been a Total Flop
What if Eric Foreman looked different after his trip to Africa? That wild concept nearly came true when That ’70s Show showrunners considered recasting Topher Grace with Josh Meyers for 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.
But recasting Eric? That could’ve wrecked the whole vibe. The plan? Meyers, known for his comedy chops on SNL, would play Eric, with the show joking that his new look was the result of his time abroad. Predictably, fans would’ve hated it. 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 Show ended after Season 8.
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 for That ’70s Show, Topher Grace was Eric.
Topher Grace Joins Netflix Drama The Waterfront in Intense New Role
Topher Grace is back in action, this time joining Netflix’s drama The Waterfront. Created by Kevin 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.
With Williamson (Scream) at the helm and Marcos Siega (You) directing, this show’s got serious heat. Grace, fresh off Flight Risk and That ’90s Show, is riding the wave—and we’re here for it.
Watch That ’70s Show on Peacock & Apple TV.
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