Monday, 28 July 2014

Eric Szmanda

Eric Kyle Szmanda  Born 24 July 1975   Actor

Eric was born in Mukwonago, Wisconsin and is 6'.  He graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Pasadena California at 19.   Before going into acting he worked for a music distributor.  After roles in such shows as The Net (TV show), Zoe, Duncan, Jack and Jane, Eric finally found his home in CSI.  He's appeared in the show since 2000.  Said Eric, "I don't think I will ever do a sitcom again, but I think that on CSI because the calibre of the show is so high that it's almost like watching a movie.  I feel like I'm doing a movie a lot of the time that I'm working."

                                        
Having said that, as Greg the CSI, he still manages to be funny and get those jokes in, to that end his comic timing is perfect, just like him.  As he said, "...now I'm making dumb jokes and learning something," on how CSI helps him learn more science, which he didn't think he'd be doing after school.   It was good that he got out from the lab and into the field as this gave him more of an on screen presence and chance to shine on the show.  As well as for us to get to know him more.  It was also Eric who wanted Greg to get out into the field and was good to see the producers actually taking on board his suggestion and following it.  Which got Greg going through plenty, writing a book, eventually completed, being beaten up, meeting a femme fatale and going through the ringer both for his job and in Greg's personal life and he's still standing, still fighting for the underdogs and bringing justice to the Vics!

Eric loves to hike and surf, has a dog called Dax.  He has a particular love for music and was music directer on the movie, Life As A House, which featured the music of Marilyn Manson, of whom Eric is a friend and a fan.  Also appearing in one of his videos for the song, (s)AINT and Sigur Ros is one of his fave bands.  Being instrumental in getting their music on the show.
                                                     
                                                     

Not only is Eric cuteness personified, but he is so down to earth and kind and is particularly active in the support of the US Campaign for Burma.  Though some have said his face isn't a fit for the show, they couldn't be further from the truth.  Not only does he exude an on air persona which makes you want to watch him more as an actor and not just as a character, he has a way of capturing and drawing you in and not just cos of his gorgeous looks, but his acting ability, so subtle in some scenes and yet charming too .

Eric is on Twitter and is generous to his fans. I recall writing to him when he was first in CSI and he wrote back personally, showing how much time he does take with his fans.  Eric once commented, "I think what happens in Vegas, should stay in Vegas"  CSI put him on the map, but there's plenty more for him to do once CSI runs its course and he has the potential to go so much further and be even more successful. Thus taking his line to a different meaning, since what he's done in Vegas is only the tip of the iceberg.

Words of wisdom, "I've always been a firm believer that if you work, the rest will follow."

                                                  

In a way, guess I'll always remember him for that head dress scene in season 1.15 Table Stakes, so cool and hilarious. And well we can always watch his ever changing hairstyles over the years!