Eric B. Is Getting Paid In Full…As An Actor On TV
Eric B. is recognized as one of Hip-Hop’s earliest artist-executives. As one-half of Eric B. & Rakim, the Queens, New Yorker helped was part of a movement that raised the bar on lyricism, production, and album-making in Rap. Now, the man born Eric Barrier is lending his talents to the small screen. Eric B. has been cast in a recurring role for CBS’ Blue Bloods. This follows a 2018 appearance on ABC family sitcom, The Goldbergs.
Last Friday’s (October 18) episode “Another Look,” Eric debuted as “Detective Mike Gee” on the police drama. The newly-introduced character is a longtime associate of “Danny Reagan,” played by Mike Wahlberg.
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It’s time to tune in. Watch me on @bluebloods_cbs as I debut as Detective Mike G ??♂️
Eric B. Defends His Legacy & Claims His Credit In History (Audio)
“Being on set is surreal,” Eric said in a press statement published at HipHopDX. “I swear they treat Tom Selleck like the real police commissioner. What an honor to be alongside such a legend.” He credited the former New Kids On The Block member-turned-actor for the chance to display new talents. “I can’t thank Donnie Wahlberg enough for this opportunity, really grateful. Being on The Goldbergs last year really wet my appetite for acting, and I’m grateful to Adam F. Goldberg and Louis ‘Uncle Louie’ Gregory for that. I’m on a mission now.” On social media, Wahlberg thanked show writer Brian Burns for creating a role fit for the Hip-Hop legend.
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Cast and crew of @bluebloods_cbs . Catch me at 10PM on #CBS #bluebloods #cbsla #cbsnewyork
Wahlberg previously rapped while in NKOTB. He is the older brother of another musician-turned-actor, Mark Wahlberg. Donnie has also arranged Blue Bloods roles for friends and associates, including affiliates of The Howard Stern Show. Starring Tom Selleck, the series is currently in its tenth season.
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Since Eric B. & Rakim’s 2017 Paid In Full 30th-Anniversary reunion show (which Ambrosia For Heads filmed parts of), the DJ and MC have toured together and made regular public appearances. Like many Hip-Hop artists, Eric appeared in 1993 film, Who’s The Man? starring Ed Lover and Doctor Dré. Following 1992’s Don’t Sweat The Technique, Eric has worked behind the scenes in entertainment, including in management and radio.