Eric Szmanda

Eric Szmanda is an American actor and producer recognized for his portrayal of Greg Sanders on the CBS crime drama "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation." Raised in Wisconsin, Szmanda participated in school plays and community theater before relocating to Los Angeles at 19 to study acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. During his studies, he interned in marketing at BMG and later worked in the music industry in Chicago before returning to Los Angeles for a stage role at Odyssey Theatre, which led to further opportunities in television.

Szmanda secured a series regular role as Jacob on the USA Network TV series "The Net," followed by a central role in the UPN pilot "Dodge's City." He then joined the cast of "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" as forensic technician Greg Sanders, a role he played across more than 300 episodes. The series earned multiple People's Choice Awards for Favorite Drama and a Logie Award for Most Popular Overseas Drama. Szmanda also contributed his voice to several "CSI" video games and participated in a Screen Actors Guild Award-winning ensemble cast.

In addition to his television work, Szmanda appeared in films including "100 Girls," "The Rules of Attraction," and "Little Athens," and acted alongside Mary Tyler Moore in the television movie "Snow Wonder." He has returned to the stage, notably performing in the one-man show "Hyenas."

Szmanda has produced a range of digital content, including comedy videos and music interviews, and launched the digital radio station erockster.com. His production company, Doop, focused on projects that blend acting and music, reflecting his ongoing interest in the music industry.

Szmanda is active in advocacy, supporting human rights and animal welfare causes. He traveled to Thailand with the US Campaign for Burma to observe conditions faced by Burmese refugees and has supported Animal Defenders International, co-hosting a benefit and advocating for legislation to end the use of animals in circuses. Szmanda's career spans acting, producing, and advocacy, establishing his presence in the entertainment industry and digital media landscape.