Check Out Rob Grant III’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rob Grant III.

Hi Rob, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?

I went to Catholic school all the way through, which gave me structure and discipline. But performing was always the thing that lit me up. So when it came time for college, the choice was easy: I went to the University of Akron to study Theatre Arts. That’s where the kid who used to entertain the family started learning the actual craft.

After Akron, I went to work at Walt Disney World Resort to stretch my performance muscles. Performing every day for crowds from all over the world taught me consistency, energy, and how to connect with an audience on the spot. From there, I came back home to Ohio and started working on camera. I did commercials for brands like Ford and Nationwide, and later worked on films including Shirley, Shelby Oaks, and Eenie Meanie.

Alongside that, I create my own work. I like to keep expanding my horizons, follow whatever I’m discovering at the time, and let my ideas flow. That’s really where I am today: still that kid who loves to perform, now with the training, the experience, and the freedom to tell my own stories.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

There were definitely money struggles along the way. At different points in my life, I worked a couple of jobs at once just to get what I needed or hold on to what I had. That wasn’t always easy, but it taught me to work hard and never take an opportunity for granted.

The biggest struggle, though, has been internal, and it still is. I’m my own worst critic. I don’t really worry about what other people think of my work. The hardest voice to get past is the one in my own head, judging every choice and asking whether it’s good enough. Learning to get out of my own way, trust my instincts, and let myself create freely is something I’m still working on every day.

Through all of it, my dad was my biggest supporter. He believed in me from the time I was that kid dancing in the living room. He passed away earlier this year, and that’s been one of the hardest things I’ve ever been through. But his support is a big reason I’m still doing this, and I carry that with me in everything I make.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m an actor and creator, and I’ve made my home base right here in Ohio. You might have seen me in commercials for Ford or Nationwide, or on screen in films like Shirley, Shelby Oaks, and Eenie Meanie. Before all of that, I spent time performing at Walt Disney World Resort. There’s nothing like performing for crowds every single day to teach you how to bring the energy and connect with people in the moment.

Beyond acting for other people’s projects, I also make my own work. I follow whatever I’m curious about at the time and see where it takes me.

What I’m most proud of is that I’ve done this my way. I didn’t feel like I had to leave home or become someone else to have a career in this industry.

And honestly, I think that’s what sets me apart. I’m not the typical hustler who’s always grinding and always on the go. I believe life is art. I try to live fully, soak up experiences, spend time with the people I love, and let the art come when it’s ready. When it does, it’s real, because it’s coming from a life that’s actually been lived. I’ve got the training and the discipline from my theatre background, but at heart I’m still that kid in Cleveland doing Michael Jackson moves in the living room, performing just because it makes me happy.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My biggest piece of advice is to always be ready, because you belong in the room. A lot of people walk into auditions, sets, or events feeling like they have to prove they deserve to be there. But if you’ve put in the work and you’re showing up as yourself, you already belong. Carry yourself that way, and people notice.

Being ready also means that when an opportunity or a conversation comes your way, you’re prepared for it. Know your craft, have your materials together, and be someone people want to work with again.

As for networking, I don’t approach it like a hustle. Just like with my art, I think the best connections happen naturally when you’re living your life, being genuine, and actually interested in people. Some of the most meaningful relationships come from just being kind and present on set, not from handing out business cards.

And when it comes to mentors, don’t overlook the people already in your corner. For me, my dad was my biggest supporter and believed in me from day one. Mentorship doesn’t always look like an industry title. Sometimes it’s the person who keeps reminding you who you are.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @mrrobgrant3