Topher Grace New Show The Waterfront: Breaking Down His Villainous Turn

Topher Grace, best known for his beloved role as Eric Forman in That ‘70s Show, has returned to the spotlight in a big way with his new show, The Waterfront on Netflix. Since its debut on June 19, 2025, The Waterfront has quickly climbed to the top of Netflix’s most-watched charts, thanks in part to Grace’s chilling performance as Grady, a drug lord specifically written for him by series creator Kevin Williamson. In a recent interview, Grace joked about the role: “Yeah, it’s weird, you’re kind of like, ‘I guess it’s a compliment.’” He also opened up about his passion for diverse roles and how he landed his breakout part in That ‘70s Show, offering fans a rare glimpse into his journey from sitcom star to unhinged villain.

Set against the picturesque yet ominous backdrop of North Carolina’s coast, The Waterfront follows the Buckley family as they struggle to maintain their fishing empire after a series of misfortunes. Desperate to keep their business afloat, the Buckleys dive into the dangerous world of drug trafficking. Grace’s Grady is the wildcard—wealthy, polished, and unpredictable—who shakes up the family’s world in ways they never expected.

The Making of a Menacing Villain

Kevin Williamson, the creator behind hits like Scream and The Vampire Diaries, crafted Grady specifically with Topher Grace in mind. The result is a character who is both charismatic and terrifying, embodying the unpredictability that Williamson sought. Grace’s portrayal of Grady is layered: at first, he appears friendly and approachable, but as the season progresses, it becomes clear that he is capable of shocking violence, often with a smile on his face.

Grace himself has said that playing the bad guy is more fun, and Grady is a “delicious, interesting bad guy.” The actor’s ability to switch between charm and menace is a highlight of the show, and his performance has been widely praised as one of the best parts of the first season. Fans of Grace’s previous work, from That ‘70s Show to Spider-Man 3 and BlacKkKlansman, will recognize his range, but The Waterfront offers him a chance to truly surprise audiences.

The show’s premise—a family business turned criminal enterprise—has drawn comparisons to Ozark and Bloodline, but with a distinctly Southern flavor. Williamson explained that while the series is inspired by his own experiences in North Carolina, it is not a direct adaptation of any true event. Instead, it draws from the atmosphere and tensions of small-town life, where everyone knows each other’s secrets and loyalties are constantly tested.

The Waterfront’s Impact and Viewer Reception

Since its premiere, The Waterfront has become one of Netflix’s most popular shows, topping the charts in the U.S. and generating buzz on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. Fans have praised the show’s high-octane action, shocking twists, and strong performances, particularly from Topher Grace. His role as Grady has been described as “terrifyingly unique,” and his departure from the series at the end of the first season has left viewers eager for more.

Critics have noted that The Waterfront is less about meticulous plotting and more about relentless action and melodrama. The show embraces its “Southern-fried gothic” identity, offering a steady stream of betrayals, violence, and surprises. While some reviewers have pointed out that the characters sometimes lack the depth found in more prestige dramas, the fast-paced, bingeable nature of the show has kept audiences hooked.

The first season concluded with several major deaths and a cliffhanger that has left fans speculating about what’s next for the Buckley family. With Belle (Maria Bello) now at the helm and Cane (Jake Weary) stepping up to confront Grady, the stage is set for even more chaos in a potential second season. Meanwhile, Bree (Melissa Benoist) has managed to escape a life-threatening situation and is working to rebuild her relationship with her son.

Key Points: What Makes Topher Grace’s New Show Stand Out

• Topher Grace’s Performance: Grace’s portrayal of Grady is a standout, blending charm and menace in a way that keeps viewers on edge.
• Creator’s Vision: Kevin Williamson wrote the role specifically for Grace, aiming to subvert expectations and showcase his versatility.
• Audience Buzz: The show has quickly become a Netflix hit, praised for its action and twists, though some critics note its focus on melodrama over depth.
• Season Finale: The first season ends with major deaths and a cliffhanger, setting up high stakes for the future.
• Cultural Impact: The Waterfront draws on Southern gothic themes and small-town tensions, making it a unique entry in the crime drama genre.

What’s Next for Topher Grace and The Waterfront?

As fans wait for news of a second season, Topher Grace is already moving on to his next project: a black comedy thriller called Huntington from A24, co-starring Glen Powell and Margaret Qualley. However, the legacy of The Waterfront and his unforgettable role as Grady will likely stay with viewers for some time.

Grace’s return to the small screen in such a dramatic, villainous role has reignited interest in his career and shown his ability to reinvent himself. For those who grew up watching him as Eric Forman, seeing him as Grady is both surprising and thrilling—a testament to his skill as an actor.

If you haven’t yet experienced The Waterfront, now is the perfect time to dive in. With its blend of action, drama, and unforgettable characters, it’s a show that’s sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.