Back in 1977, Grant Goodeve stepped into the spotlight as David Bradford on ABC’s beloved comedy-drama, Eight Is Enough. As the eldest son of Tom Bradford and Joan Wells Bradford, Grant captured the hearts of millions. He remained a key part of the series until it wrapped up in 1981 and later reprised his role in several spinoff films. If you've ever wondered what happened to Grant after the show and where he is today, keep reading—this is the story you've been waiting for.
How Grant Goodeve Stepped Into the Role of David Bradford
You might not know this, but the character of David Bradford originally belonged to none other than Mark Hamill, who played the role in the 1977 pilot. But when the show got picked up for its first season, Mark had to step away due to his commitment to the Star Wars franchise. That’s when Grant stepped in, taking over as the eldest Bradford child. Over the course of the series, he appeared in more than 100 episodes, bringing David Bradford to life with charm and authenticity.
Before becoming a household name, the Connecticut native had already dipped his toes into the acting world with small roles in films like Law of the Land, Aloha Paradise, and Hot Rod. But it was Eight Is Enough that truly launched his career, making him a heartthrob in his early 20s. After the series ended in 1981, Grant kept the momentum going by appearing in shows like The Love Boat, One Life to Live, and Fantasy Island. He even reprised his role as David Bradford in the 1987 reunion film, Eight Is Enough: A Family Reunion.
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His career didn’t stop there. In 1989, Grant starred in An Eight Is Enough Wedding, followed by a recurring role on Northern Exposure in 1990. Over the years, he continued to rack up credits in shows like 7th Heaven, Army Wives, Devious Maids, and Twin Peaks.
What’s Grant Goodeve Up To These Days?
Fast forward to today, and Grant’s most recent film appearance came in 2021’s Christmas in the Pines. Outside of acting, he’s found happiness in his personal life, moving to the Pacific Northwest with his wife, Deborah Lynn Ketcham, and their three children. In early 2023, Grant and Deborah shared heartfelt memories after the passing of his onscreen brother, Adam Rich, who played Nicholas Bradford on Eight Is Enough.
“Adam’s passing is beyond sad to us, especially when we think back to the early days of the show,” Grant told People after his co-star’s death at age 54. “During Christmas week of 1977, my wife, Debbie, and I took Adam back to our family homes in Vermont.”
Grant and Debbie cherish the memories they made during that trip, which left a lasting impression on them both.
“We had such a great time, and Adam was a hit with all our family and friends!” he continued. “We even taught him how
