Eric Graise is finally back on Trackers, season two, where he belongs. His multiple-episode absence was attributed to his character attending a friend’s funeral. People clamoured for his return because the star has redefined his role. And in ways you may not even be aware of. “The character was initially written as a very rigid kind of suit and tie type of guy, very posh—and then they met me,” Graise shared with EBONY. Graise was excited to give Bobby, the computer hacker who gathers intel for the tracker to find missing individuals, his own spin. “Bobby’s a witty, smart kind of guy…I identify a lot with that,” he said. “I was excited to bring a little more of myself to the role.”
Another thing he and the character have in common: Bobby is located in Chicago; Graise was born in Illinois. “They didn’t even know that,” he exclaimed, chuckling. But you may see more of a Southern slant played out in the role as Graise grew up in Atlanta. We’ve also been privy to Bobby’s prosthetics (Graise had a double leg amputation as a child). “I think what’s fun for me with disabled characters is that I like to see them be a vital part of the storyline,” he said. “But at the same time, it’s the norm…he’s just like everybody else.”
At the CBS Summer TV 2024 Press Tour, CBS executives teased that we would see more of Bobby’s life beyond the computer screen. “I had an episode where a friend of mine got caught up in something, so I had a little taste of what it’s like to wander around the world we’ve created,” he shared. “They’re gonna be continuing that back story. I think that’s something interesting.”
Hollywood has long been criticized for sidelining actors with disabilities or boxing them into stereotypical roles. But Eric Graise, starring in CBS’s Tracker, is rewriting that script—literally and figuratively. With his unique charisma, undeniable talent, and fearless approach, Graise is redefining what it means to be a television actor in today’s evolving industry. This article takes a deep dive into Eric Graise’s role in Tracker, his journey as an actor, and why his impact is so much bigger than the screen.
Who Is Eric Graise?
Eric Graise isn’t just another actor in Hollywood—he’s a game-changer. Born without legs due to a congenital condition, Graise didn’t let his disability define him. Instead, he embraced it, turning his difference into his strength. His performances in shows like Step Up: High Water and Raising Dion earned him recognition, but Tracker is the role that’s pushing him to the forefront of mainstream TV.
The Breakthrough with Tracker
A Role That Breaks Stereotypes
In Tracker, Graise plays a character that isn’t limited to the clichés often assigned to disabled actors. Instead of being portrayed as “the victim” or “the inspiration,” his role is multi-dimensional, layered, and deeply human. That’s what makes his performance stand out—he’s not there to fill a quota, he’s there to tell a story.
Why This Role Matters
Representation matters, but authentic representation matters more. Graise’s presence on Tracker isn’t just symbolic—it’s revolutionary. He’s showing audiences and industry insiders alike that disabled actors can portray complex characters, contribute to meaningful storylines, and be just as dynamic as anyone else.
Breaking Barriers in Hollywood
From Tokenism to Real Roles
For decades, Hollywood has relied on token representation. But Graise’s work signals a shift. He’s not cast as the “disabled friend” or the “background character.” Instead, his role in Tracker gives him depth and relevance, making him integral to the plot.
Why This Shift Is Huge
Think of it like tearing down a wall brick by brick. Every time Graise lands a role that challenges stereotypes, he’s opening the door wider for other actors with disabilities.
The Power of Representation
Impact on Audiences
Representation isn’t just about fairness—it’s about connection. When viewers see someone like Graise on their screens, it sends a powerful message: your story matters, your struggles matter, and your presence matters.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Kids growing up with disabilities who watch Tracker will see possibilities they may have never considered. That’s not just entertainment—that’s empowerment.
Eric Graise’s Acting Style
Raw and Relatable
Graise doesn’t just act—he connects. His ability to blend vulnerability with strength creates performances that feel real, unfiltered, and deeply human.
How He Stands Out
Hollywood is filled with actors, but few have Graise’s ability to command attention simply by being authentic. He doesn’t try to hide his disability; he incorporates it naturally into his roles, making his characters unforgettable.
The Industry’s Response
Critical Acclaim
Critics have praised Graise’s performance in Tracker as both refreshing and essential. He’s proving that casting disabled actors isn’t just the “right thing to do”—it’s smart storytelling.
Opening New Doors
More producers and directors are now considering actors with disabilities for roles that previously would have been off-limits. Graise is helping rewrite the industry playbook.
The Cultural Shift Graise Represents
Hollywood isn’t just entertainment—it’s culture. And culture shapes how society sees people. By redefining roles for disabled actors, Graise isn’t just impacting TV—he’s influencing how people perceive disability in real life.
Challenges Graise Has Faced
Fighting Stereotypes
Like many actors with disabilities, Graise has had to push past narrow-minded casting decisions. But instead of settling, he’s challenged the status quo and carved his own path.
Turning Obstacles into Opportunities
Every “no” he’s faced became fuel for his drive. And now, Tracker stands as proof that persistence pays off.
Why Fans Love Him
Authenticity Above All
Fans resonate with Graise because he’s real. He doesn’t sugarcoat his journey or pretend to be someone he’s not. That honesty is magnetic.
A Voice for the Underrepresented
For those who’ve felt invisible, Graise’s rise is more than entertainment—it’s validation.
What’s Next for Eric Graise?
Graise isn’t slowing down. With Tracker boosting his visibility, doors to bigger roles, more mainstream projects, and even potential leading parts are opening. He’s not just redefining his own career—he’s redefining the future of television.
Why Eric Graise’s Role in Tracker Is Revolutionary
If we step back and look at the bigger picture, Graise’s role in Tracker is about more than acting. It’s about rewriting Hollywood’s narrative, one role at a time. He’s proof that talent transcends limitations and that stories are richer when everyone gets a seat at the table.
Conclusion
Eric Graise isn’t just acting in Tracker—he’s making history. By embracing his difference and using it as his strength, he’s showing Hollywood (and the world) that true representation means authenticity, depth, and humanity. His journey is proof that when barriers are broken, everyone benefits.
